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CPA approves abalone farming test project at Tinian’s seaport
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Posted on May 11 2009
Tinian has been granted a temporary permit to use a portion of the island’s seaport for its experimental abalone project.
Commonwealth Ports Authority executive director Efrain F. Camacho recently disclosed this to the board, adding that the area, identified by Tinian Mayor Jose P. San Nicolas, will not hamper the operation of the island’s port.
“The mayor of Tinian was granted temporary permit to use a small part of the seaport area for the experimental project raising abalone. This area is away from all activities and will not be a problem to the community or any of CPA’s operation,” Camacho said in his report to CPA board.
San Nicolas, along with some of the island’s agricultural officials and representatives, traveled to the Philippines for related workshops and on-site visit to an abalone farm.
San Nicolas declined to comment yesterday on the status and preparation for the abalone project.
Camacho said the ports authority management is planning to ask for funds from the Department of Homeland Security for fencing, lights, and other items to enhance security at the port.
In an early interview, San Nicolas told Saipan Tribune that raising abalone would help Tinian revive its economy due to declining tourism numbers.
Since 1998, only Tinian Dynasty Hotel & Casino is the sole business entity that contributes to the municipality’s fund. It remits a portion to the gaming commission to pay for the salary of municipal employees.
Three new casino operators are expected to boost the island’s casino industry and the anticipated economic impact from the Guam military buildup. Two-thirds of Tinian’s landmass is expected to be used as military training sites.
Also on Tinian, CPA reported that the Tinian delegation has approved the use of a certain amount of its funds to complete the new terminal building and to support badly needed improvements to the existing terminal.
Camacho said the Tinian airport is also scheduled to get a new tractor mower and pavement striping machine from the Federal Aviation Agency funds. He added that a permanent rotating beacon is also being worked on.
