Experts say Managaha is not sinking

The U.S Army Corps of Engineers have assured the people that Managaha Island is not sinking and that the erosion is just part of a natural process.

According to Martin Castro, CRM permit supervisor, the erosion seen in some parts of Managaha a year ago, has something to do with the change in wave movement that caused some plants to be uprooted.

While some parts of the island have shown signs of erosion, the U.S. Army Corps noticed elevation of sand in some areas. “It is just a natural adjustment which possibly due to the removal of the wreck that was blocking the soil from eroding,” he said.

In 1998, CRM expressed fears that the erosion in Managaha might continue as some officials in the government already recommended the construction of some form of protection.

Castro explained only a change in the reef system would cause the popular island resort to sink.

The U.S. Army Corps will conduct a study to document the wave and tide movement to help the CNMI in monitoring Managaha.

Earlier, two US Geologists have warned the CNMI against construction a seawall, revetment or any form of protection on Managaha island to prevent soil erosion because it will only lead to the destruction of the beach area.

The advise came from Robert Mullane, a coastal geologist from the University of Hawaii, and Bruce Richmond, coastal geologist at USGS, during a recent workshop held attended by environment and local officials.

Instead of building a structure that would save Managaha island from further eroding, the two said they should simply allow nature to take its course, said Peter Barlas, acting director of Coastal Resources Management.

Constructing a seawall or revetment in one area will protect the land behind it but such action may lead to further erosion and destruction of the beach area as the strong waves would just pull the sand away from the wall, according to Barlas.

A Lagoon Use Management Plan undertaken by Duenas and Associates, Inc., in cooperation with Dr. Steven S. Amesbury, a marine biologist, said the CNMI government must establish a development policy for Managaha island to maximize its tourism potential and ensure environmental protection.

Improvements and design on Managaha island should be built for long-term use and must be approved by Northern Marianas government.

The study added that an Environmental Impact Assessment must be made to determine the maximum daily visitor rate for Managaha since they affect the underwater resources by diving and snorkeling in nearby waters.

Based on the 1996 visitor count, some 340,000 tourists visited the island. Overnight, non-commercial camping and or public education should be allowed. Restroom should be open for 24-hour for use, the master plan said.

Tourists are ferried daily to Managaha where they can swim and snorkel the whole day. A day trip to the island can cost around $60, which include the use of facilities.