CONSERVATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES

The preservation of Maryland's natural resources, includ-
ing her wildlife, was a matter of continuing concern to
State government during this period. Added to the tradi-
tional problems facing conservationists were the ever-increas-
ing perils of air and water pollution. The following selections
indicate the Governor's interest in seeking solutions to these
difficult problems.

REMARKS, DEDICATION OF ASSATEAGUE
ISLAND BRIDGE

ASSATEAGUE ISLAND
September 25, 1964

It is good to be with my good neighbors of Worcester County who
are making an accomplishment made possible by a splendid example
of cooperation between State and county government.

It always has been the philosophy of this Administration that a
strong county helps make a strong State. In this instance, the As-
sateague Island Bridge, desired for many years by Worcester County
as a means of strengthening the county, was built with State and
county planning, with State and county administration and with
State and county funds. So, today we mark this accomplishment with
pride in what has been done and hope for what remains to be done.

Assateague Island is perhaps one of the finest ocean beaches in our
nation. It offers tremendous opportunity for seashore recreation and
living. In an effort to see how important this island is to the State
of Maryland, I would ask you to look at population figures. The
Maryland-District of Columbia complex is growing rapidly as are
most urban regions throughout the country. These urban regions
have the jobs. The beach and rural areas have the space for recreation,
the recreation that these millions seek.

Right now, Maryland has only eight miles of accessible ocean beach
front, scarcely enough for the thousands upon thousands who seek
ocean recreation now and for the many more thousands upon thou-
sands who will seek it in the future. With Assateague Island adding
about 22 additional miles to our accessible beachfront, we are taking

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