MARINE MINERAL ENVIRONMENTAL STUDY RELEASE










April, 1993

                  INTERIOR DEPARTMENT RELEASES
               MARINE MINERAL ENVIRONMENTAL STUDY

     The Department of the Interior's Minerals Management Service
(MMS) has released Synthesis and Analysis of Existing Information
Regarding Environmental Effects of Marine Mining which compiles
available information on the potential environmental effects of
marine mineral development. The $150,000 study contract was
managed by Continental Shelf Associates in Jupiter, Florida; the
environmental analysis was undertaken by two well-known marine
mining experts from the University of Hawaii, Drs. Michael J.
Cruickshank and Charles L. Morgan.

     The 18-month study summarizes the existing literature
regarding the potential environmental impacts of offshore mineral
extraction on the marine, coastal, and onshore environments;
approximately 340 references were used during the final analysis
stages of the project.  The report discusses the effects of
development of ocean mineral resources relevant to factors such
as water quality, seabed organisms and habitats, recreation and
coastal facilities.  Also reviewed are references that address
mitigating measures or techniques to minimize possible adverse
effects of mineral removal on the marine environment. The report
presents the strengths, weaknesses and appropriateness of each
mitigating measure, as well as numerical models that might be
useful in predicting impacts from offshore mineral development.

      MMS has spent over $500 million dollars since 1974 on
scientific research to help ensure the environmentally
responsible management of America's offshore resources.  This
effort represents the first study specifically geared for marine
minerals funded by the MMS's Environmental Studies Program.  The
Agency is also conducting a field study off the west coast of
Florida which is evaluating the effects of dredging activities on
benthic organisms.

     The final report and details regarding the MMS marine
minerals program may be obtained by contacting the MMS's Office
of International Activities and Marine Minerals, 381 Elden
Street, Herndon, Virginia, 22070.  Telephone: 703-787-1300.
                              -MMS-