§72.  Purpose of compact

The contracting states solemnly agree: Whereas the gulf coast states have the proprietary interest in and jurisdiction over fisheries in the waters within their respective boundaries, it is the purpose of this compact to promote the better utilization of the fisheries--marine, shell, and anadromous of the seaboard of the Gulf of Mexico--by the development of a joint program for the promotion and protection of such fisheries and the prevention of the physical waste of the fisheries from any cause.  

Acts 1981, No. 837, §2.