§ 6406. National program

• (a) Subject to the availability of appropriations, the Secretary may conduct activities to conserve coral reefs and coral reef ecosystems, that are consistent with this chapter, the National Marine Sanctuaries Act [ 16 U.S.C. 1431 et seq.], the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 [ 16 U.S.C. 1451 et seq.], the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act [ 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.], the Endangered Species Act of 1973 [ 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.], and the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 [ 16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.].
• (b) Activities authorized under subsection (a) include—
  • (1) mapping, monitoring, assessment, restoration, and scientific research that benefit the understanding, sustainable use, and long-term conservation of coral reefs and coral reef ecosystems;
  • (2) enhancing public awareness, education, understanding, and appreciation of coral reefs and coral reef ecosystems;
  • (3) providing assistance to States in removing abandoned fishing gear, marine debris, and abandoned vessels from coral reefs to conserve living marine resources; and
  • (4) cooperative conservation and management of coral reefs and coral reef ecosystems with local, regional, or international programs and partners.