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CNMI gets $560K grant for Coral Reef Initiative
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Posted on Nov 16 2004
The U. S. Department of the Interior recently awarded a $560,000 grant to the CNMI for its fiscal year 2005 Coral Reef Initiative. The grant will be used to fund the position of coral reef coordinator, an assistant attorney general dedicated to coral reef protection and several positions currently established for marine law enforcement.
In addition, the funding will be used to continue programs aimed at curbing overfishing, destructive fishing, and the harvest and collecting of marine ornamentals.
The CNMI has been aggressively pursuing individuals and groups who have caused damage to the fishing industry and to the reefs themselves. This has been done through education programs and law enforcement.
The Coral Reef Task Force has also implemented programs designed to study the effects of tourism and recreational overuse of the CNMI’s limited marine resources. Local dive companies will be instructed on how to keep the reefs safe for future divers to enjoy.
Additionally, the CRT monitors the damage caused by grounded vessels and vessels that are improperly anchored within the lagoon.
Finally, the grant provides funding for the study and prevention of marine pollution, sedimentation, runoff damage, nonpoint source pollution, and marine debris.
The grant will fully fund the CNMI’s efforts in the next fiscal year to help save and protect the natural beauty and resources of the coral reef lagoon.
