MOVER to tackle northern drainages in new project
Mobil Oil Mariana Islands Inc. has awarded another $5,000 grant to non-profit group MOVER, which has proposed to clean up stormwater drainages in the northern part of Saipan.
MOVER, a group of Filipino workers, would also receive an award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency during the opening of the Pacific Islands Environment Conference today at the Dai-Ichi Hotel Saipan Beach.
The EPA recognized MOVER’s initiative to clean up some 25 stormwater drainages on Saipan’s western shores from Garapan to San Antonio to mitigate the impact of runoff on the lagoon. The EPA also recognized MOVER’s participation in various cleanup projects organized by the Environmental Interagency Cleanup Operation Team.
After completing the first drainage cleanup project for seven consecutive Sundays earlier this year, MOVER would tackle nine more drainages from the American Memorial Park in Garapan to Paupau Beach in San Roque.
“The drainage and shore cleanup program will enhance the water quality, reduce the flow of contaminated water entering the lagoon, protect and enhance the health of marine organism and other habitats,” MOVER said in its grant proposal submitted to Mobil. “The Commonwealth will further realize a clean coastal water offering a healthy recreational activity for both local and visitors alike to enjoy.”
MOVER had gained the support of various sectors in carrying out its first drainage cleanup project. Lt. Gov. Diego Benavente, the Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands, Pacific Trading, Ltd., and CNMI lawmakers regularly provided food and refreshments during the duration of the cleanup project.
Other Filipino groups also sent volunteers to augment MOVER’s manpower in the project.
