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DLNR unveils development on coral reef initiatives By Marian A. Maraya
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Posted on Aug 16 2000
Department of Lands and Natural Resources Secretary Joaquin Tenorio has unveiled several developments on the agency’s ongoing drive to save and protect CNMI’s coral reefs in line with the US All Islands Coral Reef Initiative.
Dr. Tenorio, who recently came back from an All Island Coral Reef Point of contact meeting held on American Samoa last week, revealed that the department has completed its coral reef education series on compact disc for distribution in the local school system.
He also reported that a marine monitoring team has been deployed to monitor marine water quality and coral coverage.
The department is also currently spearheading efforts to install coral reef protection signs along the shorelines of Saipan, Tinian, and Rota.
DLNR has also initiated the task of hiring a full-time biologist to assist the CNMI local coral reef initiative develop “state of the reef” report for Saipan lagoon.
Furthermore, the establishment of an enforcement branch within the DLNR to patrol newly created marine protected areas is also underway.
The department also disclosed plans to purchase a state-of-the-art coral reef monitoring equipment.
The coral reef task force has awarded the CNMI funds to accomplish a package of coral reef projects to be led by the Coastal Resources Management and the Division of Fish and Wildlife, according to Dr. Tenorio.
Some $40,000 worth of funds has been granted to DLNR in support of all the completed and ongoing coral reef priority projects.
Dr. Tenorio said the department is eyeing an additional $80,000 for the next fiscal year, as the agency plans to take on additional projects.
The CNMI is only one among five other members of the US All Island Coral Reef Initiative government points of contact.
The group’s mission is to fulfill its vision for coral reef ecosystem protection, to continue to identify ongoing coral reef management needs, establish priorities for coral reef management, share information, and foster coordination locally, regionally, and federally.
Other government points of contact include the territory of American Samoa, the territory of Guam, the state of Hawaii, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the territory of Virgin Islands.
