16 U.S.C. § 1154

The Secretary shall (1) conduct such scientific research and investigations on the fur seal resources of the North Pacific Ocean as he deems necessary to carry out the obligations of the United States under the Convention, and (2) permit, subject to such terms and conditions as he deems desirable, the taking, transportation, importation, exportation, or possession of fur seals or their parts for educational, scientific, or exhibition purposes.