The term “methane hydrate” means a methane clathrate that is in the form of a methane-water ice-like crystalline material and is stable and occurs naturally in deep-ocean and permafrost areas; and other natural gas hydrates which are found in association with deep-ocean deposits of methane hydrate.
The Secretary of Interior is entrusted to carry out a program of research on marine mineral resources. The aim of the program is to-
Promote research and exploration of marine mineral resources in an environmentally responsible manner;
Assist in developing domestic technologies required for proficient and environmentally sound development of marine mineral resources;
Coordinate and promote the use of technologies developed with Federal assistance and
Encourage academia and industry to conduct basic and applied research
The Secretary of Interior grants or contracts with eligible entities to promote research for the development of various methods, equipment and systems, necessary for the identification and exploration of marine mineral resources in an environmentally friendly manner.
