A new framework for the U.S.-flag fleet

Sea Power, May 1997 by Kelly, Edward V

MARAD continues to work with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Environmental Protection Agency to ensure that the navigation channels in U.S. ports and harbors are planned and improved in a timely and environmentally sound manner to support the nation's defense strategy as well as America's global economic competitiveness.

Domestic Shipping

MARAD also provides significant assistance to the U.S. domestic shipping industry operating on the Great Lakes and inland waterways in the coastwise, intercoastal, and offshore trades. More than 80 million passengers and one billion tons of freight, valued at $222 billion, are transported in these domestic water operations, contributing $7 billion to the nation's gross domestic product.

Water transport accounts for an estimated 25 percent of domestic inter-city freight movements-for just two percent of the nation's freight bill.

MARAD also provides state and local governments and federal agencies with studies on the economic and environmental advantages provided by the use of domestic waterborne transportation.

Domestic shipping is important to the U.S. national security posture, guaranteeing America's control of essential transportation assets and related infrastructure in both peace and war, and ensuring that U.S.-owned, U.S.-crewed, and U.S.built ships will be available to transport domestic cargo during a national emergency.

In summary, Admiral Herberger told Congress, MARAD's FY 1998 budget request reflects the president's continued commitment to the nation's maritime activities. It also reflects the importance of sealift readiness and a strong U.S.-flag merchant fleet, strengthened commercial shipbuilding, maritime education and training, and a seamless transportation system, as well as other maritime support programs.