Law restricts activities on Managaha

Managaha Island and its surrounding waters is now a marine conservation area in a bid by the CNMI to protect the popular tourist site from unrestricted commercial and recreational activities.

Gov. Pedro P. Tenorio yesterday signed Public Law 12-12 or the Managaha Marine Conservation Act of 2000 — the first ever sanctuary created by government — as he noted that regulations aimed at safeguarding the area’s resources will preserve its beauty for future generations.

Any violation of the new rules will result to a fine of between $500 to $10,000 and seizure of equipment and items by the Department of Lands and Natural Resources through the proposed Marine Conservation Section, according to the landmark law.

A prime tourist destination, Managaha has come under close scrutiny on the heels of concerns over possible erosion and damage to its marine resources due to influx of visitors who flock to its pristine beach to swim and snorkel as well as ride in such watercraft as banana boat.

Millions of dollars in revenues are generated each year from these tourism activities as more than 350,000 people visit the island annually for a day trip that can cost around $60.

But the governor urged the department to balance the need for conservation and the economic use of Managaha when implementing regulations.

“The [new law] appears to control both commercial and non-commercial recreational activities on the island of Managaha. It is not in the best interest of our people to require a permit for private recreational use of the island,” Mr. Tenorio said in signing the legislation.

“I am confident that an exception for private enjoyment of Managaha can be made either by amendment to the bill or by regulation prior to the lapse of the 180-day deadline for promulgating regulations,” he added.

A compromise

Sponsored by Rep. Heinz S. Hofschneider, the original measure was vetoed last February by the governor due to concerns on major provisions.

These included duties of the conservation area’s superintendent and funding for its operations as well as requirement for schools to visit Managaha as part of their curriculum.

A new draft he introduced in the House immediately after the disapproval deleted these questionable provisions as a compromise with the administration.

“Although I applaud provisions of the bill which encourage conservation and environmental education, I note that the formulation of educational policy is allocated by our Constitution to the Board of Education,” Mr. Tenorio said, noting that a change in the curriculum must be initiated only through BOE.

The House Committee on Natural Resources chaired by Rep. Dino M. Jones had endorsed the proposal as a good start towards establishing a comprehensive reef management program in the Commonwealth.

Likewise, it prodded the island government to take strong measures to protect our beaches, reefs and open waters which have been impacted by development projects in recent years.

“This measure respects the historical cultural tradition, while protecting Managaha Island from intrusive and disruptive activities such as jet ski operation, commercial fishing and unregulated access,” a committee report said.

The panel also believed that the proposal would ensure that Managaha is protected from exploitation and preserved for enjoyment of future generations.

Under PL 12-12, regulations will be carried out to control fishing and harvesting of marine life as well as transportation to and from the island.

Activities that will not require visitors to obtain permit from DLNR include swimming and snorkeling, while recreational activities like water sports will be restricted.