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CRM to conduct study of CNMI’s marine life
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Posted on Jul 08 1999
An Ecosystem Management Plan for Saipan Lagoon will be conducted to determine the different types of marine life and recommend the necessary conservation measures.
Coastal Resources Management Acting Director Martin Castro yesterday said the U.S. Army Corps of Engineer will help conduct the study which has been given federal funding. It is the first time that an Ecosystem Study will be undertaken by CRM.
A master plan on Saipan Lagoon has earlier been made by Duenas and Associates, Inc., in association with Dr. Steven S. Amesbury, a marine biologist which recommended ways on how to eliminate pollution specifically the contamination made by the dump site.
The Saipan Lagoon Use Management Plan was made to provide a management for the lagoon’s marine and shoreside resources which promotes the CNMI tourism, commerce, traditional users and public recreation opportunities.
It also proposed water use zoning, development of Managaha Island, marine resources conservation, marina improvements, coastal parks and recreation areas.
Furthermore, the lagoon master plan asked the CNMI government to establish a development policy for Managaha island to maximize its tourism potential and ensure environmental protection. Parks should also be located within the lagoon for subsistence fishing. Concern for the development of parks on the island underscores the need for an island-wide master plan for park and recreation facilities.
Unfortunately, the recommendations were never implemented.
