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[[underlined]]Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute:  Treaty and Implementing Legislation[[/underlined]]
The Secretary introduced the following report:

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On 1 October 1979, the Panama Canal Treaties between the United States and the Republic of Panama came into force.  Under these agreements and an exchange of notes, the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute became the custodian for both nations of the Barro Colorado Island Nature Monument.  The new arrangement includes not only Barro Colorado Island, but also four adjacent peninsulas in Gatun Lake.  This nature monument, of approximately 13,000 acres (roughly an increase of two and on-half times the previous land area), is protected under international convention as well as bilateral agreements.  The Smithsonian will continue to operate its scientific field station on Barro Colorado Island.

In line with its new treaty responsibilities, STRI is undertaking a vigorous program in conservation and education, aimed at increasing the environmental awareness of the citizens of Panama.  The preparation of environmental interpretive materials on the Barro Colorado Island Nature Monument will be useful not only to visitors to the area, but to visitors to the newly-created Panamanian National Park Liberated which is adjacent to the Nature Monument.  It is expected that the Republic of Panama will continue to call upon STRI for environmental advice, as well as the newly-formed Panama Canal Commission.  The latter organization has already called upon STRI's expertise in organizing an international symposium on the sea-level canal to be held in Panama in August 1980.