Tinian wants its own marine conservation site

Tinian officials have proposed designation of areas north of the island, including surrounding waters, as conservation site to safeguard marine resources that have depleted in recent years due to unregulated activities.

The proposed sanctuary will encompass the northern edge of the municipal breakwater to Puntan Diablo Point and Barcinas Bay, along the shoreline from Tinian Harbor to Nasarinu Beach.

The protection of marine life in this area will be best accomplished by establishing a marine reserve within which fishing and other potentially harmful activities shall be restricted, according to a bill sponsored by Tinian Rep. Norman S. Palacios.

Killing or removing, and any attempt to do so, any marine animal, such as fish, live or dead coral, lobster, shellfish, clams, octopus or vegetation will be prohibited under the proposed law.

Exemptions from the restrictions will include seasonal fish such as atulai, E’e and Ti’ao . Any other activities which are exploitative or destructive to the marine life and to any of historical value, however, will be strictly banned, according to the measure.

The local legislation will have to be passed by the Tinian Legislative Delegation before implementing the plan. The governor will also have to consider it for signing into law.

The proposed Tinian conservation area follows recent designation of Managaha Island and its surrounding waters as a marine sanctuary in a bid by the CNMI to protect the popular tourist site from unrestricted commercial and recreational activities.

Mr. Tenorio yesterday has signed Public Law 12-12 or the Managaha Marine Conservation Act of 2000 — the first ever sanctuary created by government, noting the need to implement regulations aimed at safeguarding the area’s resources in order 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 sponsored by Rep. Heinz S. Hofschneider.

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.