Our oceans are home to more than 97 percent of all life on Earth. They are critical to the survival of the planet. They help control our climate, provide more oxygen than rain forests, shelter for countless animals, raw materials for medicine and food for all of us. Our oceans’ coasts also provide endless recreational opportunities as well as a source of spiritual renewal for many. Over 51 percent of the population of the United States now lives in coastal counties. The number of people living in coastal watershed areas is projected to reach 165 million by the year 2015.
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