Supporting the goals and ideals of National Clean Beaches Week and recognizing the considerable value of American beaches and their role in American culture.

Whereas coastal areas produce 85 percent of all United States tourism dollars and are the leading tourism destination in America;

Whereas the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reports that over 50 percent of the population of the United States lives in coastal counties;

Whereas according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the beaches in these coastal counties provide recreational opportunities for numerous Americans and their families who, together with international tourists, make almost 2 billion trips to the beach each year to fish, sunbathe, boat, swim, surf, and bird-watch;

Whereas according to the Army Corps of Engineers, United States beaches are a critical driver of the American economy and its competitiveness in the global economy;

Whereas beaches represent a critical part of our natural heritage and a beautiful part of the American landscape;

Whereas beaches are sensitive ecosystems, susceptible to degradation and alteration from pollution, sea level rise, natural forces, untreated sewage, and improper use;

Whereas members of the government, the private sector, and nongovernmental organizations, along with citizen volunteers, have worked diligently to clean up and protect our beaches over the years;

Whereas according to the United States Geological Survey, great strides have been made in understanding the science of watersheds and the connections between inland areas and coastal waters, and science-based policy should be developed that is commensurate with this knowledge; and

Whereas a 7-day week commencing in June, and including July 5, will be observed each year as National Clean Beaches Week: Now, therefore, be it