Introduction to the Contiguous United States
The contiguous United States refers to the 48 states that share a common land border with each other, excluding Alaska and Hawaii. The country is surrounded by several bodies of water, which play a crucial role in its geography, economy, and environment.
Defining the Contiguous United States
The contiguous United States, also known as the "Lower 48," includes states from the East Coast to the West Coast, and from the Canadian border to the Mexican border. The region spans over 3 million square miles and houses more than 300 million people, making it the third-largest country by area and the third-most populous nation in the world.
The Significance of the Oceans
The oceans that surround the contiguous United States provide numerous benefits, including transportation, trade, recreation, and natural resources. The country is bordered by four major oceans: the Pacific Ocean, the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Arctic Ocean. These bodies of water not only serve as natural boundaries but also shape the climate, weather, and ecology of the region.
The Role of Oceans in the U.S. Economy
The oceans play a vital role in the U.S. economy, contributing billions of dollars to the country’s GDP each year. The maritime industry, including shipping, fishing, and tourism, is a significant source of employment and income for many coastal communities. The U.S. also relies on the oceans for importing and exporting goods, such as oil, natural gas, and minerals, which are crucial for the country’s energy and manufacturing sectors.
The Pacific Ocean: A Major Border
The Pacific Ocean borders the western coast of the contiguous United States, stretching from the Canadian border to the Mexican border. The ocean is the largest and deepest in the world and is home to a diverse range of marine life. The Pacific Ocean also serves as a gateway to Asia and the Pacific Rim, making it a significant hub for international trade and commerce.
The Atlantic Ocean: A Significant Border
The Atlantic Ocean borders the eastern coast of the contiguous United States, from Maine to Florida. The ocean is the second-largest in the world and is known for its strong currents, hurricanes, and rich biodiversity. The Atlantic Ocean plays a critical role in the country’s shipping industry, connecting the U.S. to Europe, Africa, and South America.
The Gulf of Mexico: A Bordering Body of Water
The Gulf of Mexico is a large body of water that borders the southern coast of the contiguous United States, from Texas to Florida. The gulf is known for its warm waters, sandy beaches, and abundant seafood. The region is also home to the U.S. oil and gas industry, with many offshore rigs and drilling platforms located in the gulf.
The Arctic Ocean: A Potential Border
The Arctic Ocean is a relatively new border for the contiguous United States, as the region is experiencing rapid climate change, causing the ice to melt and revealing new shipping routes and natural resources. The U.S. is one of several nations with claims to the Arctic Ocean, and the region is becoming increasingly important for its economic and strategic value.
The U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone
The U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is an area of ocean extending 200 nautical miles from the country’s coastline, over which the U.S. has exclusive rights to explore, exploit, and manage natural resources. The EEZ covers over 4.3 million square miles and is one of the largest in the world, containing vast reserves of oil, gas, and seafood.
The Impact of Climate Change on Coastlines
Climate change is affecting the contiguous United States’ coastlines, causing sea levels to rise, storms to intensify, and ocean acidity to increase. These changes threaten coastal communities and infrastructure, including ports, beaches, and wildlife habitats. The U.S. government and private sector are taking steps to mitigate the impact of climate change on the oceans and promote sustainable practices.
Preserving the U.S. Marine Environment
The preservation of the U.S. marine environment is vital to maintaining the country’s natural resources, protecting biodiversity, and supporting the livelihoods of coastal communities. The government and private sector are investing in research, conservation, and restoration efforts to protect the oceans from pollution, overfishing, and other threats.
Conclusion: The Importance of Oceans for the Contiguous United States
The oceans that border the contiguous United States play a critical role in the country’s economy, geography, and environment. The Pacific Ocean, the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Arctic Ocean all contribute to the country’s prosperity and well-being. As the U.S. faces new challenges and opportunities, it is essential to recognize and protect the value of the oceans for future generations.
