Section 1 Short title
This Act may be cited as the “Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Assessment Act of 2014”.
Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Assessment Act of 2014
A BILL
To require the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere to conduct an assessment of cultural and historic resources in the waters of the Great Lakes, and for other purposes.
Sec. 2 Assessment of cultural and historic resources in waters of Great Lakes
In general— Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere shall—
conduct an assessment of cultural and historic resources in the waters of the Great Lakes; and
submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives a report on the findings of the Under Secretary with respect to such assessment.
Elements— The report required by subsection (a)(2) shall include the following:
Identification of underwater geographic areas in the Great Lakes that possess historical and archaeological resources of sufficient value and density to make them nationally significant.
A description of the historical and archaeological resources in such geographic areas.
An evaluation of community interest in preserving and interpreting such resources.
A recommendation regarding whether such geographic areas should be designated as national marine sanctuaries to protect resources of historical and archeological significance.
Recommendations regarding whether the designation of a network of underwater Great Lakes areas that protect resources of historical and archeological significance, including the existing successful Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, could bring significant educational opportunities, economic development, jobs, and tourism to the Great Lakes region.
Collaboration— In carrying out this section, the Under Secretary shall collaborate with local communities.