What is the USAP?
USAP Summary and Background
Antarctic Policies
Conservation
International Cooperation

United States Antarctic Program (overview)
Fact Sheet—U.S. Antarctic Program
Science on the Ice: The United States Antarctic Program (Fifth Edition)

The United States Antarctic Program represents our Nation in Antarctica. Carrying forward U.S. goals supporting the Antarctic Treaty, the program strives to encourage international cooperation, maintain an active and influential presence in the region, and continue to conduct high-quality science research, all while sustaining funding efficiency. Read the Antarctic Treaty in its entirety, or peruse through the various U.S. Antarctic policies.

The Antarctic Treaty
Antarctic Treaty Secretariat
U.S. Policy for Antarctica
U.S. Federal Agency Responsibilities
International Cooperation
U.S. Antarctic Policy—U.S. Department of State
U.S. Policy on Private Expeditions to Antarctica

Because Antarctica is one of Earth's pristine, isolated regions, the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Parties have developed measures to protect the environment and conserve living resources; in response, the United States has created laws and regulations to implement these measures. Anyone participating in the USAP must work within these regulations. The USAP promotes strict adherence to the Antarctic Conservation Act, which protects Antarctic native plants, animals, and their habitats. You can read about this effort on the following web pages.

Antarctic Conservation Act
Antarctic Conservation Act of 1978 complete text of Public Law 95-451
The Committee for Environmental Protection (CEP)
Antarctic Specially Protected Areas Information
Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR)

The Antarctic Treaty regulates international cooperation in Antarctica, and different nations continually support one another in logistics and science projects across the continent. Exciting collaboration is taking place, and the United States Antarctic Program is a prominent participant. Browse through information on international cooperation by using the links below.

U.S. Antarctic Policy—U.S. Department of State
Council of Managers of National Antarctic Programs (COMNAP)
Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR)
International Polar Year (IPY)