FOR RELEASE:  May 26, 1994                   CONTACT:  Lee Scurry
                                                   (202) 208-3983


          MMS RECOGNIZES PADRE ISLAND NATIONAL SEASHORE
                     FOR NATIONAL PARK WEEK (#40034)


     In support of National Park Week, May 22-29, Minerals
Management Service (MMS) Director Tom Fry today visited Padre
Island National Seashore.  

     National Park Week was signed as a proclamation by President
Clinton to focus public attention on the treasures of the
National Park System.

     "Our national parks have a compelling story to tell," said
Interior Secretary Bruce Babbitt.  "National Park Week is an
invitation to take time to learn more about the story, to be
reminded of the value of parks, and to commit to preserve them
for future generations to enjoy."
 
     Authorized in 1962, Padre Island National Seashore is part
of a barrier island that stretches along the Texas Gulf Coast for
approximately 68 miles. 

     "The park is one of the longest stretches of primitive ocean
beach in the United States, and is noted for its abundant bird
and marine life.  It also has active petroleum platforms in state
and federal waters within 40 miles of the island shore.  Clearly,
Padre Island exemplifies a successful balance between
environmental conservation and responsible mineral development,"
Fry said.

     "Over the years, park officials have been a cooperative
partner, valued advisor, and active participant in the
Department's offshore mineral leasing and development program,"
Fry said.

     MMS, Padre Island, and other federal and private agencies
have worked closely in seeking a solution to marine debris
problems affecting the shoreline.  Survey work, which was
initiated in 1989 at Padre Island, has already indicated a marked
decline in debris items associated with offshore operations.

     MMS manages the nation's undersea mineral resources located
on the outer continental shelf.


                             --MMS--
Subject: PR-5/26/94 Padre Island/MMS Recognizes Padre Island
National Seashore for National Park Week (#40034)