Enclosure (1) to COMDITINST 16010.12A
VISION (continued)
OBJECTIVE 22. RESPOND TO EMERGING ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES
Purpose. The growing awareness of the importance of Living Marine Resources and endangered
marine environments poses a major challenge for America. Coast Guard capabilities, authorities
and networks position it as a key federal agent for this growing area of concern.
Opportunities for Improvement. We must actively author and influence federal rulemakings and
be a leader among government and non-government stakeholders in crafting effective solutions and
creating national consensus on this important issue. This should include coordinating performance
goals and our proactive involvement in cross-governmental initiatives as the Clean Water Action
Group and "Building Sustainable Fisheries". Working with other concerned agencies, we must
develop the ability and information sources to forecast threats to species and sensitive areas and
implement protective measures before they reach extremis.
Owners. Assistant Commandants (G-M and G-O)
OBJECTIVE 23. BEING RECOGNIZED AS A UNIQUE INSTRUMENT OF
NATIONAL SECURITY
Purpose. The Coast Guard's current and potential contributions to national security are far-
reaching, but often under-recognized by many American policy makers. The Secretary of State
recently reiterated the importance of the Coast Guard's contributions to the President's National
Security Strategy and National Drug Control Strategy. Internationally, the Coast Guard contributes
to national security through training, military assistance, CinC operations, and conduct of Coast
Guard missions in overseas areas. The Coast Guard is the international maritime model for many
nations of the world. Within and adjacent to our own borders, Coast Guard missions protect
Americans, our sovereignty, our environment and our infrastructure.
Opportunities for Improvement. We need to clarify the meaning and national security
implications of a national Waterways Management initiative. We need to maintain active
involvement with the National Security Council and CinC operations and plans, and support an
enhanced role for DOT in national security issues. We need to be aware of reductions in other
agencies' commitments to national security programs and quickly assess and act on the impact of
such reductions on Coast Guard responsibilities and resources, in terms of both opportunities and
threats.
Owner. Commandant
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