Saipan lagoon use management plan Final Draft

[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]

SAIPAN LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT PLAN

FINAL DRAFT

VOLUME I

DATA AND ANA@YSES

Prepared for
Coastal Resources Management Office
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

U11

Prepared by
Cl< Duenas and Swavely, Incorporated
-CO in Association with
Pacific Basin Environmental Consultants, Inc.

GB
004 2231
N11
S25
1985

V. I

VOLUME I

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART A

INTRODUCTION, METHODOLOGY FOR DATA COLLECTION
AND A SUMMARY OF DATA
FROM QUESTIONNAIRES, INTERVIEWS AND PLANNING ADVISORY TEAMS

PAGE

I. INTRODUCTION, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
A. Purpose of Report .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
B. Description of Project Area . . . o. o . . . o . . . . . . . 2
C. Guide to Use of Volume I . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

II. METHODOLOGY FOR DATA COLLEC.TION . . . . . . . . . . 6
A. Data Collection Procedures . o . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1. Office Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2. Field Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . * 6
3. Planning Advisory Teams . . . o . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
a. Saipan Lagoon Planning Advisory Teams . . . . . . . . 8
b. SALAPAT One . . . o . o . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
c. SALAPAT Two . . . . . . . . . . . . o . o . . . . . . 9
B. Interviews . o . . o . . . . o . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
1. Questionnaires . . . . . . . . o o .. . . . . . . . . . 10
2. Personal Interviews . . . . . o . o . . . . . . . . . 10
C. Planning Areas and Ecological Zones o . . . . . . o. . . 10
1. General Description of Planning Areas . . . . . . . . . . . 19
2. General Description of Ecological Zones . . . . o . . . . 21

III. SUMMARY OF DATA FROM QUESTIONNAIRES, INTERVIEWS AND
PLANNING ADVISORY TEAMS . . . . . . . o . . . . . . . o . . . . 22
A. Fishing and Gathering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
B. Recreational Uses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
C. Commercial and Tourism Uses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
D. Personal Interviews . . . 0 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 032
E. Planning Advisory Team Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . o . . 32
1. SALAPAT One . . . . . . . . . . o . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
2. SALAPAT Two . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . 35

r,@Zppezty of CSC Librc@ry

PART B

PRESENTATI40N OF DATA AND ANALYSES
BY PLANNING AREA AND BY PROJECT AREAWIDE

PAGE

PUNTAN MAGPI PLANNING AREA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-1
A. Natural Resources e . I-
1. Living Marine Resources . . . . o . . . . . . . . . . . I-1
a. Northern Portion Inner and
Outer Reef Flat o . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . I-1
N b. Northern Portion Reef Margin
and Slope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
c. Near-shore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . o . . . 1-3
d. Lagoon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . 1-4
e. Reef Flat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
f. Reef Margin and Slope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
2. Physical Marine Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
a. Currents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
b. Water Quality . . . . . . o . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
3. On-Shore Resources . . . . . . o . . . . . . 0 1-8
a. Wetlands . . . . . . 1-8
b. Rare Threatened and E@d a*n*ge*re*d *Sp* e c*ie*s 1-8
B. Manmade Resources and Human Uses . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 1-8
1. Land Uses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . o . . . . . . . . 1-8
a. Existing Development and Public Facilities . . . . . 1-8
b. Public Land Ownership and Access o . . I-10
c. Recreation Sites . . . . o . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-10
d. Historic Sites . . . . . . . . . . 9 . . o . . o 1-10
e. Beach Erosion and Stormwave Redistribution . . . . . I-10
f. Stormwater Drainage . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . I-10
2. Economic Resources . . . . - o Q . - - -'. . . - - . . I-11
a. Subsistence Fishing and Gathering . ... . . . . . . I-11
b. Tourism Industry . . o . . e I-11

II. TANAPAG HARBOR PLANNING AREA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . II-1
A. Natural Resources . . . . . . . . . 9 . . . . . . . . . . . .
1. Living Marine Resources . . . . . . o o . . . . . . . . .
a. Near-shore ' * * * * * ' * * o ' * * * o * * * * ' * II-1.
b. Lagoon and Patch Reefs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-3
2. Physical Marine Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-4
a. Currents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-4
b. Water Quality . . . . . . . . . o . . . . . . . . 11-8
3. On-Shore Resources . . . o . . o . . . . . . 9 . . . . 11-8
a. Wetlands . . . . . o . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-8
b. Mangroves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-9
c. Rare Threatened and Endangered Species . . . . . . . 11-9
B. Manmade Resources and Human Uses . . . . . . . . . . . . II-10
1. Land Uses . . . . . . . . . . II-10
a. Existing Development and P@biic' F'aciU'tie*s* II-10
b. Public Land Ownership and Access o o o II-10

PAGE

c. Recreation Sites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . II-10
d. Historic Sites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . II-11
e. Beach Erosion and Stormwave Redistribution . . . . .
f. Stormwater Drainage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2. Energy Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
a. Existing Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3. Economic Resources . . . . . . . . . . TI-12
a. Subsistence Fishing and Gathering 11-12
b. Commercial and Sport Fishing and Facilities . . . . 11-12
c. Port and Shipping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-12
d. Tourism Industry . o .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-17

III. MANAGAHA ISLAND PLANNING AREA . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A. Natural Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . o . . . . . .
1. Living Marine Resources . . .* . . . . . . . . . . . . .
a. Lagoon and Patch Reefs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
b. Reef Flat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111-2
c. Reef Margin and Slope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111-3
2. Physical Marine Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111-6
a. Currents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111-6
b. Water Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111-6
3o On-shore Resources . . 0 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111-6
a. Rare, Threatened and Endangered Species . . . . . . 111-6
b. Terrestrial Vegetation . . . . 0 *. . . . . . . 0 . . 111-7
B. Manmade Resources and Human Uses . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111-7
1. Land Uses . . . . . . . . . 0 . . . . . . . 111-7
a. Existing Development and Public Facilities o D . 111-7
b. Public Land Ownership and Access . . . . . . . . . . 111-7
c. Recreation Sites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111-7
d. Historic Sites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . III-10
e. Beach Erosion and Stormwave Redistribution . . - . III-10
f. Stormwater Drainage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ITI-10
2, Economic Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . III-10
a. Subsistence Fishing and Gathering . . o . . . . .. . III-10
b. Commercial and Sport Fishing and Facilities . . . . . TII-11
c. Ports and Shipping . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . III-11
d. Tourism Industry . . . . . . . . . . . ...

I V. PUNTAN MUCHOT PLANNING AREA . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . IV-1
A. Natural Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 IV-1
lo. Living Marine Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IV-1
a. Near-shore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . IV-1
b. Lagoon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 0 IV-2
c. Reef Flat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IV-4
d. Reef Margin and Slope . . . . . . . . . . . 0. . . - .iv@_5
2. Physical Marine Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IV-5
a. Currents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IV-5
b. Water Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IV-10
3. On-Shore Resources . . a. . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . IV-10
a. Wetlands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IV-10
b. Mangroves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IV-12
c. Rare Threatened and Endangered Species . . . . . IV-12

PAGE

B. Manmade Resources and Human Uses . . . . . . . . . . . . IV-13
1. Land Uses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IV-13
a. Existing Development and Public Facilities . . . . IV-13
b. Public Land Ownership and Access . . . . . . . . IV-13
c. Recreation Sites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IV-13
d. Historic Sites . . . . . . . . . . . . . o .. . . . IV-13
e. Beach Erosion and Storm Surge Zones . . . . . . . . IV-15
f. Stormwater Drainage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IV-15
1. Existing Development and Public
Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . o IV-15
2. Economic Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IV-21
a. Subsistence Fishing and Gathering . . . . . . . . . IV-21
b. Commercial and Sport Fishing and Facilities . . . . . IV-21
c. Ports and Shipping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IV-21
d. Tourism Industry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IV-21

V. GARAPAN LAGOON PLANNING AREA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V-1
A. Natural Resources . 0 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V-1
1. Living Marine Resources . @ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V-1
a. Near-shore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V-1
b. Lagoon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . V-2
c. Reef Flat . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V-3
d. Reef Margin and Slope . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . V-4
2. Physical Marine Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V-5
a. Currents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V-5
b. Water Quality . . . . . . . . . . o . . . . . . . . 0 0 V-5
3. On-Shore Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V-6
a. Rare Threatened and Endangered Species . . . . . . . V-6
B. Manmade Resources and Human Uses . . . . . . . . . . . . . V-6
1. Land Uses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V-6
a. Existing Development and Public Facilities . .o . . . V-6
b. Public Land Ownership and Access . . . . . . . . . . V-6
c. Recreation Sites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V-6
d. Historic Sites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V-7
e. Beach Erosion and Stormwave Redistribution . . . . . V-7
f. Stormwater Drainage . . . . . . . . V-7
2. Economic Resources . . . . . . . V-7
a. Subsistence Fishing an athering . . . . . . . . . V-7
b. Commercial and Sport Fishing Facilities . . . . . . . V-8
c. Ports and Shipping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V-8
d. Tourism Industry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V-8

VI. PUNTAN SUSUPE PLANNING AREA . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . VI-1
A. Natural Resources . 0 . . 0 . . . . . . . . . . . 0 . . . . . VI-1
1. Living Marine Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VI-1
a. Near-shore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VI-1
b. Lagoon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VI-2
c. Reef Flat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VI-2
d. Reef Margin and Slope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VI-3
2o Physical Marine Resources . o o . . . . . . . . . . VI-4
a. Currents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VI-4
b. Water Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VI-4

PAGE

3. On-Shore Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VI-10
a. Wetlands . . . . . . . * . . . VI-10
b. Rare Threatened and End@@gered S*pe*c:*Le*s'. VI-10
B. Manmade Resources and Human Uses . . . . . . . . . . . . VI-10
1. Land Uses . . . . . . . . . *i * ' * * *; * : * * * VI-10
a. Existing Development and u@lic Facilitie . . . VI-10
b. Public Land Ownership and Access . . . . . . . . VI-11
c. Recreation Sites . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . VI-11
d. Historic Sites .. . * * , * . . . . . .. : . . . . . VI-12
e. Beach Erosion and Stormwave Redistribution . . . . VI-12
f. Stormwater Drainage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VI-12
2. Economic Resources. VI-12
a. Subsistence Fishing and aat*h*ering* VI-12
b. Commercial and Sport Fishing Facilities . . . . . . VI-12
c. Ports and Shipping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VI-13
d. Tourism Industry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VI-13

VII. PUNTAN AFETNA PLANNING AREA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VII-1
A. Natural Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VII-1
1. Living Marine Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VII-1
a. Near-shore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VII-1
b. Lagoon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V11-1
c. Reef Flat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VII-2
d. Reef Margin and Slope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VII-3
2. Physical Marine Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VII-4
a. Currents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VII-4
b. Water Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . VII-4
3. On-Shore Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VII-5-
a. Rare Threatened and Endangered Species . . . . . VII-5
B. Manmade Resources and Human Uses . . . . . . . . . . . VII-5
1. Land Uses . . . . . . . . . * ' * * * * i ' * * * * * * V11-5
a. Existing Development and Public Facilities . . . . . VII-5
b. Public Land Ownership and Access . . . . . . . .. VII-5
c. Recreation Sites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VII-6
d. Historic Sites . . . . . o . . . . . . . . . . . . . VII-6
e. Beach Erosion and Stormwave Redistribution VII-6
f. Stormwater Drainage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. VII-6
2. Economic Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VII-6
a. Subsistence Fishing an@ Gathering . . . . . .. . . . VII-6
b. Commercial and Sport Fishing Facilities . . . VII-6
c. Ports and Shipping . . . . . . . . . . . # . . VII-6
d.. Tourism Industry . . . . . . . . . 0 . . . . VII-6

VIII. PROJECT AREAWIDE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-1
A. Natural Resources . . . . . . . . . . a . . . 0 . 0 . . . VIII-1
1. Currents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-1
2. Tides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-1
B. Manmade Resources and Human Uses . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-1
1. Land Uses and Infrastructure . . . . . . . . VIII-1
a. Water Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . VUI-1
1. The Existing System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-1

PAGE

2. Existing Plans for Saipan's Water
Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VTII-9
3. Problems Associated with the Water Systems . . . VITI-14
b. Wastewater Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-14
1. Central Wastewater System . . . . . . . . . . VIII-15
2. Southern Wastewater System . . . . . . . . . VTII-15
3. Existing Plans for Saipan's Wastewater
Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-22
4. Problems Associated with the Wastewater
Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-26
c. Beach Road " * , , * * * VIU-29
2. Water Quality Management . .. . . . . . . . VIII-29
3. Energy Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-35
a. World Energy Supply . . . . . . . . . . o . . . . VUI-35
b. Saipan's Energy Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-37
c. Present Energy Status in the CNMI . . . . . . . . VIII-38
d. Energy Alternatives for Saipan . . . . . . . . . VIII-40
e. Energy Management on Saipan . . . . . . . . . . . VUI-40
f. Alternate Energy Sources for the CNMI . . . . . . VITI-41
4o Economic Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-42
a. Tourism Industry . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . .. VIII-42
C. Legislation and Policies . o . . . . . . o . o . . . . . . VIII-42
1. Legislation . . . . . . . . . . . . o . . . . . . . VIU-42
a. Areas of Particular Concern . . o . . * . . . * VIII-42
b. Taxation and Revenue - Producing Legislation . . . VIII-52
c. Land Ownership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . o VIII-53
d. Protection of Resources . . . . . . o . . . . . . . VIII-53
3. Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-55
a. Established CZM Goals and Policies VIII-55

LIST OF FIGURES

FIGURES PAGE

PART A

1. Project Area of Saipan Lagoon Use Management
Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
2. Sampling Transects within each Planning Area . . . . . . . . . 7

3. Marine and Terrestrial Fishing and Gathering
Questionnaire . . . . o . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . o

4. Recreational Use Questionnaire . . . . . . o . . . . . . . 14

5. Commercial and Tourism Use Questionnaire . . . . . . . . . 16

7. Six Ecological Zones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . o a

PART B

1-1. Quality Monitoring for Fecal Coliform, (October 1984
March 1985) . . . o o . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9

II-1. Drogue Drift Paths for-20 March 1976 . . . . . . . . o 11-5

11-2. Drogue Drift Paths for 12 June 1976 . . . . . . . . . . . 11-6

11-3. Currents in and near Baker Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-7

11-4. Possible Berthing Plan for Tanapag Small Boat
Harbor . . . . . . . o o . . . . . . . . . ... 11-13

111-5. Tanapag Harbor Facilities . . . . o . . . . . . . . . . 11-14

IV-1. Currents. Location: Garapan, EBB Tide . . . . . . . . IV-6

IV-2. Currents. Location: Garapan, Flood Tide . . . . . . . . IV-7

IV-3. Currents. Location- Hafa Dai, EBB Tide . . . . . . . . IV-8

IV-4. Currents. Location- Hafa Dai, Flood Tide . IV-9

IV-5. General Circulation Pattern, Garapan Drainage-
Basin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. IV-11

iv-6 Historic Sites in the Puntan Muchot Planning
Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . o . . . . . . . ... . . IV-14

FIGURES PAGE

PART A

1. Project Area of Saipan Lagoon Use Management
Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

2. Sampling Transects within each Planning Area . . . . . . . . 7

3. Marine and Terrestrial Fishing and Gathering
Questionnaire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 0

4. Recreational Use Questionnaire a . 0 . . a . . . . 14

5. Commeraial and Tourism Use Questionnaire . . . . o . . . . 16

6. Six Ecclogiczl Zones . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 . . . . 18

PART B

I-I. Quality Monitoring for Fecal Ccliform (October,1984 -
March 1985) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9

31-1. Drogue Drift Paths tor 20 March 1976 . . . . . . . .

31-2. Drogue Drift Paths fnr 12 June 1976 . . . . . . . . . . . Ir-6

31-3. Cu=ents in and near Baker Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31-7

31-4. Possible Berthing Plan fnr Tanapag Small Boat
Harbor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . n:-13

11-5. Tanapag Harbor Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-14

IV-1. Currents. Location: Garapant EBB Tide . . . . . . . . IV-6

IV-2. Currents. Location: Garapan, Flood Tide . . . . . . . . IV-7

iv-3. Currents. Location: Hafa Dai, EBB Tide . . . . . . . . IV-8

IV-4. Cuxxents. Location: Hafa Dai, Flcod Tide . o . . . . . . IV-9

IV-5. General Cjxculation Pattern, Garapan Drainage
Basin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IV-11

IV-6. Historic Sites at American Memorial Park 0 IV-14

FIG U RES PAGE

IV-7. Shoreline Erosion in the Puntan Muchot
Planning Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IV-16

IV-8. Recommended Plan for Garapan Flood Control . . . . . . IV-19

IV-9. Typical Section, Garapan Flood Control . . . . . . . . IV-20

VI-1. Currents. Location: Saipan Grand, EBB Tide . . . . . VI-5

VI-2. Currents. Location: Saipan Grand, Flood Tide . . . . . VI-6

VI-3. Currents. Location: Chalan Kanoa, EBB Tide . . . . . VI-7

VI-4. Currents. Location: Chalan Kanoa, Flood Tide . . . . . VI-8

VI-5. General Circulation Pattern, Susupe/Chalan Kanoa
Drainange Basin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VI-9

V111-1. Puntan Magpi Planning Area Water System . . . . . . VM-2

V=1-2. Tanapag Harbor and Puntan Muchat Planning Areas
Water System . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-3

VIII-3. Garapan, Pu 'ntan Susupe and Puntan Afetna Planning
Areas Water. System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 VIII-4

VIII-4. Saipan Water System Demands and Flows . . . . . . . . . VIU-5

VIII-5. Central and,Southern Sewage System . . . . . . . . . . V111-16

=-6. Central Sewage System; Existing Facilities . . . . . . V111-17

VIII-7. Garapan Outfall Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . =-18

=-8. Southern Sewage System Existing Fadliti s . . . . . . . =-21

=-9. Agingan Outfall. Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . =-23

=-10. Traffic Counts along Beach Road . . . . . . . . . . . . =-30

V111-11. APC Map Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-47

=-12. APC for Northern Lagoon . . . . . . . . . . . . * . .=-48

=-13. APC for Garapan Area . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . =-49

=-14. APC for Central Lagoon Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . V111-50
VIII-15. APC for Southern Lagoon Area . . . . . . . . . . . . .. VIII-51

FIGURES PAGE

IV-7. Shoreline Erosion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IV-16

IV-8. Recommended Plan for Garapan Flood Control . . . . . . IV-19

IV-9. Typical Section, Garapan Flood Control . . . . . . . . IV-20

VI-1. Currents. Location: Saipan Grand, EBB Tide . . . . . VI-5

VI-2. Currents. Location: Saipan Grand, Flood Tide . . . VI-6

VI-3. Currents. Location- Chalan Kanoa, EBB Tide . . . . . VI-7
VI-4. Currents. Location: Chalan Kanoa, Flood Tide . . . . . VI-8

VI-5. General Circulation Pattern, Susupe/Chalan Kanoa
Drainange Basin . . . . . . . . . . . . . VI-9

VIII-1. Puntan Magpi Planning Area Water System . . . . . . . VIII-2

VIII-2. Tanapag Harbor and Puntan Muchot Planning Areas
Water System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VTII-3

VIII-3. Garapan, Puntan Susupe and Puntan Afetna Planning
Areas Water System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-4

VIII-4. Saipan Water System Demands and Flows. VIII-5

VIII-5. Central and Southern Sewage System . . . . . . . . . . VTII-16
VIII-6. Central Sewage System; Existing Facilities .. . . . . . VIII-17
VIII-7. Garapan Outfall Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-18

VIII-8. Southern Sewage System Existing Facilities . . . . . . . VIII-21

VIII-9. Agingan Outfall Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-23

VIII-10. Traffic Counts along Beach Road . . . . . . . . . .. . . VIII-30

VIII-11. APC Map Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-47

VIII-12. APC for Northern Lagoon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-48

VIII-13. APC for Garapan Area . . . . . . .. . . . ... . . VIII-49
VIII-14. APC for Central Lagoon Area . . . . . ... . . .. . . VIII-50
VII-15. APC for Southern Lagoon Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-51

LIST OF TABLES

TABLE PAGE

PART A

1. Guide to Use of Volume One for Natural Resources . . . 4

PART B

I-1. Recreational Facilities in Puntan Magpi Planning
Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-10

II-1. Recreational Site at Tanapag Harbor Planning
Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-10

III-I. Checklist of Fish Species observed in the
vicinity of the proposed Underwater Trail at
Managaha Island . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . 111-4

111-2. Checklist of Terrestrial Flora identified along
the Nature Trail and elsewhere on Managaha - -----
Island . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111-8

IV-1. Recreational Sites at Puntan Muchot Planning
Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IV-15

IV-2. Measures for alleviating Garapan Flooding . . . . . . . IV-18

V-1. Recreational Sites at Garapan Lagoon Planning
Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V-7

VI-1. Recreational Sites at Puntan Susupe Planning
Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VI-11

VII-1. Recreational Sites at Puntan Afetna Planning
Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . VII-5

VIII-1. Projected Residential Educational, Commercial and
Industrial Water Consumption Demands VIII-6

VIII-2. Assumptions for projecting Water Consumption
Demand ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . VIII-9

VIII-3. Fire Flow Capacities are further calculated by
Population . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-10

VIII-4. Estimated Maximum Future Flow Rates VIII-11

VIII-5. Recommended Improvements to the Saipan Water
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-12

TABLE PAGE

VIII-6. Central System Residential Sewer Service Con-
nections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-19

VIII-7. Central System Number and Type of Wastewater
Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-19

VIII-8. Wastewater Flows, Central System . . . . . . . . . . VIII-20

VIII-9. Southern System Residential Sewer Service Con-
nections . . . . . VIII-24
VIII-10. Number and type of Wastewater Connections for the Southern System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-24

VIII-11. Wastewater Flows for the Southern System . . . . . . . VIII-25

VIII-12. General Wastewater System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-27

VIII-13. Southern Wastewater System . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIII-28

VIII-14. End Uses of Fuels, CNMI, 1981 . . . . . . . . . . . .. VIII-39

VIII-15. Saipan Tourist Accomodations along Saipan
Lagoon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... VIII-43

VIII-16. Saipan Tourist Attractions . . . . VIII-45

VOLUMEI

PART A

INTRODUCTION, METHODOLOGY FOR DATA COLLECTION

AND A SUMMARY OF DATA

FROM QUESTIONNAIRES, INTERVIEWS AND PLANNING ADVISORY TEAMS

CHAPTER I - INTRODUCTION

A. PH2ose of Report
The purpose of this Volume I, SAIPAN LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT
PLAN is to present and analyze in one bound volume all available,
pertinent data pertaining to the PLAN'S project area. Much of this
data are original and resulted from extensive field investigations as well
as from surveys, interviews and input from Planning Advisory Teams.
This Volume also contains excerpts from other relevant studies and
reports dealing with both natural and man-made resources of the Saipan
Lagoon and its on-shore project area.
Volume I is presented in three parts: Part A, Part B and Part C.
Part A describes the project area and metfiodologies that were employed
for data collection. It also summarizes much of the data that resulted
from questionnaires, interviews and Planning Advisory Teams. All of
Part A's pages are numbered sequentially from 1 through 30.
In Part B the actual data are presented and analyzed for each of
the seven Planning Areas that comprise the Lagoon and on-shore project
area. Much of these data are also depicted on the six-sheet, "SAIPAN
LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT PLAN - Planning Areas" maps which are
included as Volume III of the PLAN. Part B's page numbers are pre-
ceded by the chapter number or appendix letter, and pagination is
sequential on a chapter by chapter basis.. Each of the seven Planning
Area chapters are described with the same format of data presentation
which includes
Natural Resources
Living Marine Resources
Physical Marine Resources
On-Shore Resources
Man-made Resources and Human Uses
- Land Uses
- Economic Resources
The final chapter of Part'B describes Project Areawide data which
cannot be usefully categorized into any particular Planning Area. This
chapter presents project areawide data fort
Natural Resources
- Physical Marine Resources
- Physical On-Shore Resources
Man-made Resources and Human Uses
- Land Uses and Infrastructure
- Energy Resources
- Economic Resources
Legislation and Policies
- Executive Orders
- Legislation
- Policies
Part C is a bibliography of this PLAN's references, and it should
be consulted for bibliographic data when references are cited in either
Volume I or II.
Volume I data and data analyses were utilized to formulate the
various plans, policies and programs embodied by the SAIPAN LAGOON
USE MANAGEMENT PLAN. These plans are presented in Volume II.
The maps depicting existing data and proposed plans are in Volume III.
An Executive Summary of the PLAN is presented in Volume IV.

B. Description of Project Area
The SAiPAN LAGOON UbE MANAGEMENT PLAN project area is
depicted on Figure 1. Generally, it is elliptical in shape, bordered on
the west by the Lagoon's barrier reef and on the east by West Coast
highway and Beach Road. The PLAN's seven Planning Areas are also
shown in this figure.

C. Guide for Use of Volume I
Because of the comprehensive nature of data that are analyzed
within this Volume a Guide was devised to facilitate the presentation of
data collected throughout the Saipan Lagoon project area. The Guide is
presented in Table 1. The Table is in two sections: Natural Re-
sources; and Min-made Resources and Human Uses. Within each of
these two major categories are the various sub-categories such as
Living Marine Resources, Marine Physical Resources, Land Uses, and
Economic Resources. Where these sub-categories are discussed in this
Volume a check mark is denoted under the appropriate Planning Area.

Figure

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SAIPAN ISLAND
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ade TAMAPOG

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TABLE 1. GUIDE TO USE OF VOLUME ONE FOR NATURAL RE

PLANNING AREA

Puntan Tanapag Managaha Puntan Garapan Puntan Pt
Magpi Harbor Island Muchot Lagoon Susupe A

Living Marine Resources
Corals x x x x x x
Fishes x x x x x x
Marine Plants x x x x x x
RTE Species x x x x x x

Marine Physical Resources
Currents x x x
Tides
Water Quality x x x x x x
Hydrography

On-Shore Resources
Wetlands x x
Mangroves x x
RTE Species x x

TABLE I cont. GUIDE TO USE OF VOLUME ONE FOR MANMADE RESOURCES AND HU

PLANNING AREA

Puntan Tanapag Managaha Puntan Garapan Puntan Pu
Magpi Harbor Island Muchot Lagoon Susupe Af

Land Uses
Existing Development
and Zoning x x x x x X
Historical Sites x x
Recreation Sites x x x x X X
Infrastructure
Water
Sewer
Storm Water and Flood
Control x x
Scenic, Land
Scenic, Underwater
Beach Erosion and
Storm Surge Zones X x x x X X
Public Lands Owner-
ship and Access x x x x x X,

Energy Resources
Existina Facilities x
Alternate Sources

Economic Resources
Subsistence Fishing and
Gathering X. X X X X. x
Commercial and Sport
Fishing x x x X X X
Tourism Industry
Resource Extraction
Port and Shipping x

CHAPTER 1.1 - METHODOLOGY FOR DATA COLLECTION

A. Data Collection Procedures
Various methodologies have been employed to generate the data and
attain an understanding of the Lagoon environs in order to establish
reasonable development objectives. Methods employed for this project
fall into two basic areas: office or field related. Field data were
collected both on land and in the Lagoon.

1. Office Methods
Methods employed in the office involved numerous standard
project tactics such as identifying data needs and sources for
specific aspects of the scope, i.6. general references for a compre-
hensive bibliography. Once the data sources had been identified,
these reports, studies, notes, letters, maps, collections, policies,
rules and regulations, laws, plans, photographs and samples were
compiled so that the study team could periodically reference them
throughout the project. Since this project involved a compre-
hensive study and evaluation of data from the entire Saipan Lagoon
as well as from a significant portion of the western Saipan shoreline
(both geographically and geopolitically), data collection methods
were devised which enabled the compilation of a large volume of
data within a relatively short period of time.

2. Field Methods
Field data were collected on both land and lagoon related
issues. Since the project area is quite large, various means of
transportation were used to adequately gather the data. The
on-shore and shoreline portions were traversed by car and moped
and by walking and jogging along the shoreline. Observations were
made and notes taken on maps (scale 1:10,000 and smaller) within
each of the planning areas. Particular areas of interest (expanding
villages, rapid growth areas, port and harbor areas and critical
habitats) were examined more -carefully for details necessary to
support in-depth analysis.
The Lagoon was surveyed by boat, skin and scuba diving, and
by towing on an underwater sled along pre-established transects.
Visual observations were made regarding human uses and natural
resources. Notes were made on standard aerial photographs (scale
1:10,000 metric) and lists were compiled for natural resources in all
areas of the Lagoon. Natural resources within the Lagoon were
identified by noting observations after short tows (15-30 minutes).
Figure 2 shows all transects where underwater tows were made.
Particular areas of interest (identified from aerial photographs,
discussions with CNMI officials and personal observations) were
noted and site-specific skin or scuba dives were made to ascertain
the nature of the resource. These areas are noted in Figure 2.
Underwater tows were made in water 2 m or deeper in all areas of
the lagoon and outside the barrier reef and over four ecological
zones (reef margin and slope, reef fl;it, lagoon and nearshore).
Whenever positive identification was not possible in the field, spec-
imens were collected and verified- later.

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3. Plannina Advisorv Teams,

a. Saipan Lagoon Planning Advisory Teams
Planning Advisory Teams were established to assure
government-wide and community-wide input to the data
collection and planning process. The term SALAPAT is an
acronym for Saipan Lagoon Planning Advisory Team. These
teams met on two different occasions for two days each.
The purpose of SALAPAT sessions was to achieve an in-
formed, technical exchange of ideas and opinions about the
future of the Saipan Lagoon and its shoreline area. From
deliberations on several key discussion issues, master planning
for Saipan Lagoon proceeded with the benefit of timely input
from people representing a wide range of public and private
concerns.
There were no guidelines or formalities imposed on
SALAPAT participants. By restricting the sessions to rather
small, informal groups at a secluded, comfortable location, these
sessions presented the ideal environment to freely participate in
the planning process. -Reference data, including a SALAPAT
information packet as well as other sketches and plans, helped
to assure the participants of sufficient background information
in order to productively contribute to the sessions.
,b. SALAPAT ONE I I
SALAPAT ONE was held on May-'23 and 24, 1984 and.was
attended by the following participants:
Pedro A. Tenorio, Lt. Governor
David M. Sablan Microl Corporation.
Bill Concepcion Marianas Public Land Corporation
Al Hockett Dept. of Public Works
Gordon Joyce National Park Service
Bruce Lloyd Coastal Resources Management Office
Felix Rabauliman Special Assistant for Carolinian Affairs
Nicolas M. Leon- Dept. of Natural Resources
Guerrero
Bill Sakovitch Dept. of Community and Cultural
Affairs
Martin Cabrera Coastal Resources Management Office
Liz Udui Physical Planning Office
H. R. Guerrero Pacific Development Inc.
Daniel Muna Office of the Mayor, Saipan
Joe Songsong Commonwealth Port Authority
Ben Concepcion B. C. Water Sporis Inc.
John H. Robinson Robinson Associates and Marine
Surveying
Jess Pangelinan Historic Preservation Office
Donald Bufton Saipan Construction and Salvage
Vicente C. Aldan Coastal Resources Management Office
Debby Knutson Coastal Resources Management Office
Roger Gridley Gridley Reality
Jesus G. Villagomez Marianas Public Land Corporation

jol--n Fu.-.---,- !vfarlanas Visitors 3:1ureau
Carl L. Goldstein Division of Environmental Quality
Benigno M. Sablan House of Representative
Brian P. Reyes Coastal Resources Management Office
Tammi Grove Coastal Resources Management Office
Ivan Groom Northern Islands Company
Ron Strong PBEC, Incorporated
Michael Wilder PBEC, Incorporated
John P. Duenas Duenas and Swavely., Incorporated
Dan Swavely Duenas and Swavely, Incorporated

c. SALAPAT TWO
SAIMPAT TWO was held on August 3.0 and 31, 1984 and
attended by the following participants:
Pedro A. Tenorio, Lt. Governor
Benigno M. Sablan Representative, Fourth Northern
Marianas Commonwealth
Legislature
Jose M. Rios Mayor, Island of Saipan
Manuel T. Sablan Administrator Coastal Resources
Management Office
Tammi Grove Coastal Resources Management Office
Debby Knutson Coastal Resources Management Office
Martin Cabrera Coastal Resources Management Office
Bruce Lloyd Coastal Resources Management Office
Felix Rabauliman Special Assistant for Carolinian
Affairs Office
Gloria Hunter Govenor's Special Assistant for
Programs and Legislative Review
Roger Gridley Gridley Realty
Meredith Glenn Saipan Chamber of Commerce
Maryann Aldan Duty Free Shoppers (SPN) Ltd.
Joe Camacho Duty Free Shoppers (SPN) Ltd.
Joe Songsong Commonwealth Ports Authority
Bill Concepcion Marianas Public Land Corporation
Felix Sablan Marianas Visitors Bureau
Gordon Joyce American Memorial Park
National Park Service
Al Hockett Department of Public Works
Jesus R. Sablan Department of Commerce and Labor
Bill Lopp Division of Environmental Quality
Magdalena S. George Associated Insurance of the Pacific
John H. Robinson Marianas Aqua Sports
Herman Guerrero Pacific Development Inc.
Lydia Sablan Economic Development Loan Fund
Nick Leon Guerrero Department of Natural Resources
Pat Bryan Division of Environmental Quality
Ivan Groom Northern Islands Company
Mike Wilder PBEC, Incorporated
John P. Duenas Duenas and Swavely, Incorporated
Dan Swavely Duenas and Swavely, Incorporated

B. Interviews

1. Q uestionnaires
in order to gather information from various Lagoon use planning
groups, interviews were conducted in the form of questionnaires.
Three separate questionnaires were devised (Figures 3, 4 and 5) as
identified here:
1. Marine and Terrestrial Fishing and Gathering
2. Recreational Use
3. Commercial and Toutism Use
The survey objective was to distribute the first two question-
naires over the heavily used areas first. Two Saipan residents
were employed to conduct the interviews in order to minimize
cultural and language problems "outsiders" often have in obtaining
accurate information from the publi .
Maxine and Terrestmial Fishing and Gathering Questionnaixes
were distributed to known fishermen and gatherers wherever they
were found, at home or in the field. Field visits were made to
known fishing, and gathexing spots along the shore, boat launching
sites and where catches are distributed or sold.
The Recreational Use Questionnaires were distributed through-
out the project area depending on level of use. Attempts were
made to interview individuals over 15 years of age where they were
recreating. Interviews were also conducted at the high schools to
determine how young adults (ages 15-18) view present Lagoon uses
and how they might beimproved.
Commercial and Tourism Use Questionnaires were distributed to
selected organizations which relate closely to the tourist industry
and deal with tourists on a daily basis. These organizations are
associated with glass-bottom boat cruises, trips to Managaha,
fishing, scuba diving, bus tours and various related tourist pur-
suits. A few of these questionnaires went to beach rental outlets
that sell or rent equipment to tourists. Very few interviews Gess
than 10) were obtained from Japanese tourists. A breakdown of
completed interviews follows:
Fishing and Gathering 65
Recreational Use 122
Commercial and Tourism Use 16

2. Personal Interviews
Personal interviews were also conducted to gain insight into
particular aspects of the project area or Lagoon uses. These as-
pects were generally subjective areas involving paliti s and policy.
Individuals within the CNMI government as well as private business-
men with a vested interest in the growth and development of Saipan
--commented on numerous issues. Although no specific questionnaire
form was used, most of the issues in the questionnaires were also
covered :in these personal interviews.
C. - --Planning Areas and EcclogiFa Zones
--------'The Plan's project area is subEvided into seven Planning Areas
(Figure 1) and six Ecological Zones (Figure 6). The Planning Areas

Figure 3

MAPJNE AND TERRESMIAL
KaiDIG AND GAMERING
QUESMCMAME

DATE:
TIME OF DAY:

TYPE OF RESPCNDENr
;U_ one Ethnic group
@Group (Specify nuaber)

FISHMIGAMERING

Subsistence
Cannercial
:7-D90ort

L=ICN

Generic: - Backshore Shoreline Nearshore -Lag oon
Outer Reef
Actual: Quadrant location on map
Launching Ti-te if by boat;
Entry point if on foot or swinming or by veEicle:

MEMM OF FISHDIG

Cast net
Gill net
Fish weir
MIN Tro, 11 ing
Handline
_-7Trapping
S@_earfishing: Skin diving Scuba diving Boat
Shore
Hook and Line Shore Wading

SPECIES

Wha,t are you fishing for?
What species have you caught?

TYPE OF GAMMUNG

Land crabs

Shells
Sand
Coconut branches
Pandanus leaves

Coconuts
Aluminum cans
____@bngrove trees (Specify for what:
- Firewood (What type:
Fruits (What kind:
Medicinal plants (What kind:-
TINE -Flowers (What kind:

Hours per day fishing/gathering

FRBQUENCY

____Pays per month fishing/gathering

QUALITY

Has the quantity increased or decreased since you started
fishing/gathering?

If yes, can you explain the change?

Has the size of individual species increased or decreased
since you started fishing?

If yes, can you explain the change?

SPBCIAL ISSUES

What type of fishing/gathering activities cause probl ?

What problems do you experience during your fishing/gathering?

What kinds of hazards do you fear or encounter when fishing or
gathering?

Do you ever see any illegal fishing/gathering in the lagoon area
(poison, dynamite, chlorox, sand mining, live coral harvesting or
other)?

If yes, please give the location(s) by quadrant on the map.

PERSCNAL

_A ge
Sex
@Age began fishing/gathering
Annual family inccme
you fish/gather in the same or different areas as
when you started?
If not, then why?
Do you live in lagoon area or not ?
Do you drive to the lagoon area or walk ?
If you drive to the lagoon area where do you Fai7k?
What support facility or facilities do you need for your
fishing/gathering activities?

AMITICNAL CCHVENIS

Figu re 4
RECREATICNAL USE
QTJESrICMNTA=

DATE:
TIME CF DAY:

TYPE OF RESPCNDENr

Chamorro
Caro I ini an
Local Resident (Specify:
_Expatriate
Tourist

A=ITY

Swinming Snorkeling Scuba Waterskiing
-Sailing Nlotor Boating Fishing Gathering
- Shell@ing Pic1micking ____@Sightseeing Walking
Park use Biking Other

LJO=CN

Generic: Backshore Shoreline Nearshore -Laizoon
Outer Reef
Acutal: Quadrant location on map
Access poiEt-by. boat:
Access point by car or on foot:

SPBCIAL ISSUES

Name your favorite sights in the lagoon area

What is your favorite beach?

How should the lagoon area.look?

--Do you enjoy your activity in the lagoon area? yes no

HOW could each of the above sights, beaches and activities be
irrproved?

Do you use the Managaha beach no?

If no, then why not?

Are there sufficient public areas for recreation and access to
them? ____yes no

If no, indicate where access should exist for a particular
recreation spot.

What uses should be encouraged?

What uses should be regulated?

What uses should be prohibited?

What kinds of hazards do you experience during your activity?

What fears do you have regarding your activity?

What should public beach lands be used for?

What should private beach lands be used for?

PEPSCNAL

Age
-Sex Etbnic group
Fami ly annual income
Do you drive or walk to the lagoon area?
Where do you park if you c671v--e to the lagoon area?

AMITICNAL C3&ENM

Figure 5
CCMVUCLAL AM TCURISN4 USE
z2TESTIaTLk'=

auE:
TIME OF DAY:

ME OF BUSINESS

Hotel
Tour Operator (Land)
Tour Operator (Water)
Rental
Dive Shop

NAME OF ESTABLISHVENI!

ACrr=

Deep Sea Fishing
- Skin Diving (For vAmt:
-Scuba Diving
Swimning
-Transportation to Managaha Is.
Motorboats (Type: For what:
Ski ing
Sailboats/Windsurfers
Jet Skis
Mopeds
Bicycles
71-iEtseeing
Bus transportation to Lagoon use
Glassbottom Boats
Dinner Cruises
Other (Explain:

TYPE OF EQUERARNT AND QUAN= (specify)

L=ICN/DESrI11ATICN

Backshore
Shoreline
Nearshore
@Lagoon
Outer Reef
Managaha, Is.
Other (Specify:

FRB7JEWY OF ACTIVI'1Y

Number of trips/rentals per week
Nuaber of tourists per week

SPECL
AL ISSUES

What kind of fears do tourists express prior to engaging in these
activities?

What kinds of problems do the tourists ccaplain of during these
activities?

What kind of problem do the tour operators experience during these
activities?

What kind of special support facilities do you require for these
activities?

Do these facilities exist in the lagoon area es no.

If no, please explain what is needed.

What future recreational or cami-ercial uses can you forsee for the
lagoon and shoreline in the lagoon area?

Wbo uses your services?
PER= EACH
Tourists
Local residents

AMITICNAL CCUENIS

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are configured to include -eoq@raohical_ areas (land and lagnor-) -Oth
similarities in development and natural resources. Also, by subdividing
the overall project area into several smaller areas, the data for human
uses and natural resources can be presented in a more manageable
f ashion. The number and names of the seven Planning Areas from
north to south are:
1. Puntan Magpi
2. Tanapag Harbor.
3. Managaha Island
4. Puntan Muchot
5. Garapan Lagoon
6. Puntan Susupe
7. Puntan Afetna

1. General Description of Planning Areas
The northernmost Planning Area, Puntan Magpi, has 6,536 m
(21,445 ft.) of coastline (the largest of all the Planning Areas) and
stretches from northern Wing Beach to approximately 518- m (1700
ft.) south of Tanapag Village. The Lagoon portion of this Planning
Area reaches farther southwest, to the vicinity of the Tanapaq
Harbor and. Managaha Island. The villages of San- Roqu (1980
population of -623) and Tanapag (1980 population of 917) are part of
this Planning Area. Except where the proposed Village and
Residential Zone of these villages crosses West Coast-Highway and
penetrates inland, the highway constitutes the eastern inland boun-
dary of this Planning Area.
The Tanapag Harbor Planning Area encompasses Saipan's part
and industrial center. The land portion of this area is approx-
imately 1,598 acres in size, with 3,459 m (11,350 ft)--of shoreline,
of which about 1,402 m (4,600 ft) are developable for--docks and
wharfs. The Lagoon portion is bounded by the harbor,- turning
basin and channel.
The Managaha Island Planning Area is comprised of Managaha
island and its nearby waters, all totalling about 590 acres in size.
The Puntan Muchot Planning Area reflects the Lagoon's most
intensivel-
y used shoreline due to the adjacent_ resort, --commercial
and park facilities. This area's coastline is 3,840 m (12,600 ft) not
counting the isthmus at Smiling Cove of which 2,225 m (7,300 ft)
are bounded by publically-owned land and 1,615 m (5,300 ft) are
bounded by privately-owned land. The inland boundary is Beach
Road slicing through the Village of Garapan (1980 population of
2,063). The major public landmarks of this area are the American
Memorial Park and the Garapan Wharf; the major private landmarks
are the Hyatt, Saipan Beach and Hafa Adai Hbtels.
The Garapan Lagoon Planning Area is characterized by sparse
development on-shore, due to the narrow band of inland area
between the shoreline and Beach Road, as well as the Lagoon's
physical dominance. The coastline of the area is about 3,200 m
(10,500 ft) long.
In the Puntan Susupe Planning Area is Saipan's seat of Govern-
ment and the second largest concentration of tourist-related indus-
tries. The 4,039 m (13,250 ft) coastline contains both public parks

and privately maintained beaches. The Civic Center, Sugar Dock
and associated channel are the most prominent public landmarks in
this Planning Area. The Royal Taga and Grand Hotels are the most
prominent private developments. San Jose (1980 population of 808)
Susupe (1980 population of 722) and Chalan Kanoa (1980 population'
of 2,678) all lie partially within this Planning Area.
Puntan Afetna is the southernmost Planning Area. It begins
just north of Hopwood Junior High School and stretches to Agingan
Point, encompassing 2,947 m (9,670 ft) of shoreline. This Area
includes nearly all of San Antonio Village (1980 population of 1,257)
as well as large parcels of public land at the Agingan Sewage
Treatment Plant, Hopwood Junior High School and the former U.S.
Coast Guard Station. The recently re-opened White Sands Hotel as
well as through-traffic to Koblerville significantly increase the
average daily traffic volume through this Planning Area.

2. General Description of Ecological Zones
Ecological zones (Figure 7) were established in order to sub-
divide the project area into zones of ecological similarities.
Ecological zones encompass six environmentally distinct areas which
parallel, more or less, the Saipan Lagoon coastline. Each zone lies
in a generally northeast/ southwest alignment and traverses the
length of the PLAN'S project area. These ecological zones are
described as follows:
ON-SHORE - All fast land in each of the planning areas from 50
m (150 ft) inland of the high tide line to the project
limit boundary. Includes Managaha Island.
BEACH STRAND - All land (beach or shoreline) within 50 m
(150 ft) inland from the high tide line.
NEAR-SHORE - In the Lagoon to approximately 50 m (150
ft) from the high tide line.
LAGOON - The deeper water portion (3-15 m) within the
barrier reef including the harbor and channels through
the barrier reef.
REEF FLAT - Shallow water (less than 3 m) just inside the
barrier reef.
REEF MARGIN AND SLOPE - Deeper water (3-20 m) outside
the barrier reef.
The on-shore ecological zone represents the eastern, or inland-
most boundary of the project area and generally lies between the
Lagoon's beach strand and the West Coast Highway/Beach Road
corridor. This transportation corridor is the most convenient
approximation of the project, area's eastern boundary, although the
actual area of influences generally reaches one lot deep along the
corridor's eastern side. Within Tanapag, the project area extends
inland to Middle Road between Lower Base and American Memorial
Park.
The Lagoon's influence and this PLAN's project area actually
falls short of the West Coast Highway and Beach Road corridor at
several places. These places include:
Roadside commercial development which caters primarily to
traffic along West Coast Highway and Beach Road. This

occurs within each of the seven coastline villages of San
Roque, Tanapag, San jose, Susupe, Chalan Kanoa and San
'Antonio. In Garapan, the tourist commercial area is closely
linked with the adjacent, shoreside hotels.
Non port-related development at the Lower Base industrial
complex..
The retail sales and services business district in GaraDan
between "hotel row" and Beach Road.
The residential area of Chalan Kanoa between Beach Road
and the coastline, which maintains its strongest ties inland,
towards the village center.
At one location, between the Garapan Wharf and north San
Jose, the Lagoon's influence reaches somewhat beyond Beach Road
to the adjacent inland properties. For these reasons it is imprac . -
tical to precisely define the inland boundary of the on-shore eco-
logical zone area wide. In general, however, it is the West Coast
Highway/Beach Road corridor.
The Lagoon-side boundary of the on-shore ecological zone is
also somewhat amorphous. Generally, it lies about 50 meters inland
from the high tide Une and includes beach strand vegetation which
is transitional between the sandy beach or rocky coastline and the
permanent stand of flora.

CHAPTER III - SUMMARY OF DATA FROM QUESTIONNAIRES, INTERVIEWS
AND PLANNING ADVISORY TEAMS

A. Fishing and Gathep*ng
One hundred and sixteen (116) fishermen and food gatherers were
questioned as part of this survey. By a 2 to 1 majority, lagoon fisher-
men reported they fish to feed their families, rather than for sport or
commercial purposes. The most- favored catch is the Mafuti (Snapper),
followed by Tuna, Grouper, Ee (Juvenile Jacks, Caranx sp.).,
Parrotfish and Octopus. Fish are not the only thing Tishermen and
gatherers collect. Many people gather clams, crabs, edible algae and
Tangan-tangan for firewood.
Sugar Dock is the favorite launching site for fishermen who use
boats, though fishermen also use Charlie Dock, Smiling Cove, the.
Seaplane Ramp and a few other sites along the west coast. Fishermen
reported the major problems on-shore as vandalism to their cars and
harassment by troublemakers.
Fishermen agreed that the size and number of fish in the Lagoon
has declined. They have blamed illegal fishing with dynamite and
dhlorine for some of the decline in their catch during recent years.
Other problems mentioned included the absence of limits on the number
of fish taken, netting of juvenile fish and water pollution. Few
fishermen reported seeing dynamite or chlorine fishing taking place, but
many reported knowing persons who used such illegal methods.
Litter was also a major concern of fishermen, who complained of
cuts and other injuries taused by junk in the water and along the
shoreline. The fishermen favored improvements in parking, better
marinas, more channel buoys and lights on docks.

B. Recreational Uses
One hunilied and twenty two (122) users of the beach areas and
Lagoon were questioned in this survey. Not surprisingly, the largest
number of recreational users of the Saipan Lagoon are beach picnickers
and swimmers, whose favorite picnic site is Micro Beach. Managaha
Island was the second most popular recreational site. The picnickers
were not happy about persons who drive on the beach or dump litter
and junk on the shoreline. Those questioned asked for more picnic
facilities and favored having lifeguards and more police patrols at
popular beaches. The Lagoon users also favored tighter regulations on
pollution and fishing. Recreational users called for a cleaner beach and
Lagoon area by an 8 to 1 majority.

C. Commercial and Tourism Uses
'A Sixteen (165 commercial and tourism use questionnaires were distri-
buted during this survey. Results were discouraging since only a few
(less than 10) were completed and returned. Of these, only three (3)
were from tourists of whom one was a Japanese.
Based on these sketchy results, commercial establishments related to
tourism are concerned that their patronage suffers from common pro-
blems associated with rapid growth areas. These include the lack of
tourist free-time to pursue other than programmed activities, inadequate
local public transportation and poor infrastructure.

QUANTITATIVE RESPONSES
Marine & Terrestrial
Fishing and Gathering
Questionnaire

Type of Respondent
Chamorro 43 Palauan 4
Carolinian 15 Hawaiian 2
Japanese (non- Caucasian 2
tourist) 5 Tourist 1

Fishing I Gathering
Subsistence 48
Commercial 24
Sport 27

Location
Generic
Backshore 2 Nearshore 6 Outer reef 22
Shoreline 22 Lagoon 14

Actual Quardrant
1-71-7 3-0 4-25 5-2

Launching Site By Boat
Sugar Dock lz San Jose 2
SaiShip, 8 Fishing Basin 3
Lower Base Sea- Grand Hotel 3
plane ramp 3 Chalan Lolo 2
San Antonio Dump 1 Mobil Dock 1
Smiling Harbor 2 Near Hong Kong
Charlie Dock 1 Rest. 1

EnLry Point on Foot
Civic Center z
Public Works 1

Method of Fishing Spearfishing
Hand line 30 5kin Diving 11
Trolling 15 Scuba (boat) 7
'Fish weir 8 Scuba (shore) 3
Cast net 5
Gill net 3 Hook & Line
Shore 17
Boat 10
Wading 9

Species
lFished For & Gaugnt
Mafuti 26 Skipjack 3 Yellow Fin 1
Tuna 13 Sea Urchin Mullet 1
Grouper 11 Striped Unicorn
EE 9 Surgeon 3 fish 1
Parrotfish 5 Goatfish 2 Gadao 1
Octopus 4 Snappers 2 Sagamulum 1
Reeffish 4 Marlin 2 Mahi 1
Agas 1 Soldierfish 2 Eels 1
Hangun 1 Triggerfish I Clams 1
Anything 4

TX2e of Gathering
Land Grabs 11
Shells (small
clams) 1
Algae (Caulerpa) 1
Firewood ManQ-an-
tangan) . 1
For b ait 2

Time (hours per day)
1-4 4-9 9-12 More than 12
15 -8 4

Frequency (days/month)
-1-i6- 6-11 11-20 20-30
13 33

QualiLiL
Increased 4
Decreased 28
Same 6

Size
Increased 0
Decreased 32
Same 7
Reasons eased
- if you watch the seasonally
Decreased
- Illegal activities
- No limit on size
- Too many people fishing or gathering
- Overfishing in some areas
- Lagoon pollution
- Too many different activities in lagoon
Fish are smarter

Special Issues
Fishing Problems
- Illegal activities (dynamite, chlorox)
- Too many boats working a school or area
Cast nets wipe out juveniles

Personal Problems
- Cuts, bruises
Broken glass & dangerous debris
- Inconsiderate fishermen
- Nets being hit by boats
Not being able to sell the catch

Hazards
- Sharks, eels, jellyfish
- Capsizing
- Vandalism to auto while fishing
- Being hit by a boat while spearfishing
Engine failure
- Harassment by young men (boys), trouble makers
Bad weather
Currents

Illegal Activities
Only a few respondents ever observed illegal activities taking place

Location Of The Illegal Activities
Lagoon - Reef near fishiYg--basin, Grand Hotel Reef, Civic Center
Reef, San Jose Reef, Especially Quads 1 & 4
Other Areas - Laulau Bay, Forbidden Island, Tank Beach

Personal
Age
Less than 15 16-20 21-30 31-40 41-50 greater than 50
5 3 -T4- _72- -7 4
Sex Male Female
40 10

Age Began Fishin
Less than 15 16-ZO 21-30 31-40 41-50 greater than 50
12 9 7 0 0 1

Fishing in Same/Different area
Same 5
Different 10

Live in (5) or out (36) of plan area
Drive (30) or walk (30) to Lagoon

Where Do You Park
Near shore 12
Shoreline 8
Home 3
Within view 3
Near lights 2
Beach Road 1
At launch ramp 1

Sup2ort Facilities
Safe Parking
Channel Buoys
Channel Lights
Dock Lights
Cleaner Shoreline
Better Marina

QUANTITATIVE RESPONSES
Recreational Use Questionnaire

Ty
,pe of Respondent
Chamorro 52 Carolinian 26
Expatriate 35 Local Resident 28
American 9 (other than Chamorro)
Japanese 5 Caucasian 6
Filipino 1 Filipino 6
Indian I Japanese 5
Palauan 1 Chamorro /American 3
Unknown 18 Palauan 2
Tourist 10 Korean 1
Japanese 5 Carolinan/Filipino 1
American 2 Unknown 1
Canadian 1 Chinese/ American 1
Australian 1 Filipino/ American 1
Unknown I Chamorro/Palauan 1

Activity
Picknicking 145 Motor Boating 36
Swimming 123 Shelling 35
Snorkeling 89 SCUBA 30
Walking 78 Biking 30
Gathering 61 Waters1ding 28
Fishing 60 Sailing 24
Park Use 59 Other 5
Sightseeing 59 Drinking 3
Beach combing 1
Sex 1

Location
Generic
Shoreline 69 Lagoon 54 Outer Reef 34
Nearshore 64 Backshore 53

Actual Quadrant
4-39 2-13 1-4 3-1 5-1

Access Point by Boat
Fishing Basin 9
Smiling Cove 3
Grand Hotel 4
(Taguchi Beach House)
Seaplane Ramp 3
(Lower Base)
Boat Basin 1

Access Point by Foot or Car
Grand hotei
Micro Beach 10
Civic Center Beach 10
Chalan Lolo 7
Fishing Basin 3
Intercon Hotel 3
Hyatt Hotel 2
Quarter Master 2
San Jose 2
(Beach Road, Pau Pau Road, American Memorial Park, Saiship Sagman,
Morrow Retail Store, Smiling Cove - 1 each)

Special Issues
Favorite Sishts in Lagoon
Reefs 48 Sunsets 3
White Sand Beaches 22 Seaward Nearshore 2
Managaha Island 16 Surf 2
Ocean & Lagoon 12 Anchors, Sharks,
Fish & Coral 8 Mike, Ron 1
Coconut Trees 3 Women 1

Favorite Beach
Micro Beac ,h 27 Pau Pau Beach 5
Managaha Island 11 Wing Beach -5
Obyan Beach 7 Taga. Hotel Beach 3
Tank Beach 7 San Antonio Beach 2
Civic Center Beach 7 Marine Beach Z
All West Coast 7 Bantalan Beach 2
(Hyatt, Grand, Townhouse, American Memorial Park 1 each)

How Should the Lagoon Area Look
Cleaner 88
Okay as is 10
Plenty of
fish & coral 8
Beautiful 7
Alive 5
People enjoying
themselves 4
Lots of picnic
areas 3
Better roads 2
Better in
general 2
(No wild animals, calm & peaceful, less junk 1 each)

Do You EnjoX Your Activitz in the Lagoon Area
Yes - 87 No - 13

Improvements
32 More picnic tables & better ones (island style)
17 More & bigger shelters

10 More garbage cans
16 More recreational activities available (volleyball, soccer,
tennis, badmitton, football)
8 Showers
7 More restrooms;
.7 More lights in recreational areas
6 Fast food outlets in vicinity of recreational areas
6 Cleaner restrooms
5 Playground facilities for children
5 Plant more trees for shade
4 More bar-b-que pits
4 Chairs for lounging
3 -Stop dumping junk along shoreline
3 Remove junk along shoreline
3 Get peopole involved in cleaning up their mess
3 Rope off swimming areas used frequently
2 Beach Patrol
2 Life guards
2 Build more piers
.2 More women who speak english & wear bikinis
1 (Initiate water safety, regulate taking small fish, clean beach
daily, public meeting halls, better enforcement, regulate
pollution, more parks, stop illegal activites - dynamite, chlorox,
litter)

Do you use Managaha Beach
Yes-86 No-31-

If No Then
11 No transportation
3 Not enough time to go there
2 Do not like people who work there
2 Do not know where it is
2 Not accepted by people who work there
1 (New to island, boring there, too far)

Are there sufficiant Public Areas for Recreation and Access to them?
Yes-63 No-16

What Uses Should Be Encouraged
13 Sports Clubs; Windsurter Clubs
12 Cleanliness
6 Lifeguards
4 Parks
2 Volleyball
2 Fishing
2 Parties
1 Swimming & Snorkeling

What Uses Should Be Ragalated
i2 Littermg
9 Enforce existing regulations
7 Maintenance
4 Dumping
4 Parking areas
3 Taking sand
2 Picknicking
1 (Clean beaches, scaring tourists, fishing, polluting water,
destruction of lights)

What Uses Should Be Prohibited
IF -Dumping
3 Drugs
1 (Driving cars on beach, illegal fishing, parking cars on
shoreline, swimming in boating areas)

What Kinds of Hazards Do You Experience...
25 Sharp ;b-jects in water
13 4-wheel vehicles on beach
11 Currents
6 Trouble makers
3 Fresh men
3 Rough surf
2 Harrassment
2 Low tides

What Fears Do You Have...
18 Drowning
16 Vandalism
15 Water safety
10 Bums
9 Loss at sea
7 Rapists & murderers
5 Drunks
2 Leg cramps while swimming
2 Outsiders
1 (Injuries, not enough women)

What Should Public Beach Land Be Used For
35 The Public 5 Touri
13 Family Gathering 4 Fishing
7 Picknicking 2 Swimming
7 Public Beaches 2 Recreation
5 Sports

What Should Private Beach Lands Be Used For
20 TRe Public
20 Private
11 Owners choice
7 Beaches should be owned by everyone
5 Any function
3 Respect of owners desire
1 Fun

Personal
Age less than 15 16-20 21-30 31-40 41-50 greater than 50
5 42 20 8 2 0

Sex
Male Female
_74- 52

Annual Income W
Less than 5,ObO 5,000-10,000 10,000-20,000 20,000-30,000,
1 2 1 3
30,000-40,000 40,000-50,000 greater than@ 50,000
1 0 2

Ethnic Group
31 Chamorro
27 Caucasian
22 Carolinian
8 Japanese
6 Filippino
2 Palauan
1 Chinese
1 Marshallese

Drive Waak
57 If 5-

Where Do You Park
24 Parzi @glot
17 Beach
10 Backshore area
5 Near shoreline
2 Lagoon area
1 (Grand Hotel, Townhouse, Micro Beach)

Comments
- Government should clean the beaches on Thursdays prior to the
weekend & Mondays after the weekend
- More lights for bar-b-que areas
- Beaches should belong to everyone
Have the young people clean the beaches and pay them
Wing Beach needs some improvements
This survey was a good idea. It should make the beaches better
for us and the tourists

Tourists complained of inadequate personal safety as a result of
har d the co . I ger. 'hey claime - these
assment an nstant fear of dan I CL
problems could be reduced or eliminated with improved safety programs
and better street lighting.

D. Personal Interviews
At least five (55 personal interviews were conducted during this
survey. These interviews were conducted with individuals in the public
and private sector who exhibited a vested interest in the development
of Saipan and the Saipan Lagoon, although numerous individuals were
questioned on a variety of subjects regarding the project. Although
these interviews often followed the format of the questionnaires, nu-
merous other issues were discussed.
The majority of issues raised during these interviews were either
political or developmental in nature. Government officials recounted a
number of political issues involving legislation, management plan-ndn-g-P
taxation and continued federal aid in the future development of Saipan
and the Saipan Lagoon. Of particular importance is the development of
Tanapag Harbor and the Commercial Port, infrastructure and public
utilities. Private businessmen recounted different objectives for
development on Saipan in the vicinity of Saipan Lagoon. Most of their
concerns dealt with providing more -and better services for the tourists,
such as hotels, restaurants, nightclubs and a myriad of smaller com-
mercial activities.

E. Planning AdvisoEl Team Objectives

1. SALAPAT ONE
The 71-anning Advisory Team for SALAPAT ONE discussed the
following objectives for various issues of the project area.
Objectives for the Project Area
- Preferable land use mixes among residential, com-
mercial, tourism and industrial uses.
- Identification and preservation of certain unspoiled
or threatened natural resources, undeveloped areas
and historically significant areas.
- The need for, and kinds of, additional public
recreation opportunities.
Objectives for Lagoon and Beach use
- Maintaining or enhancing the Lagoon's water
quality.
- Accommodating both passive and active water recre-
ation activities in the Lagoon.
- Exclusive use of recreation opportunities for the
local public.
- Fishing, swimming, boating and harbor use con-
flicts.
- Beach parking restrictions for motorized vehicles-.
- Identification and preservation of certain unspoiled
or threatened natural resources, undeveloped areas
and historically significant areas.--

Managaha Island development and its use by the
local public and by tourists.
Providing pedestrian access to the beaches.
Alternate beach set-back schemes for buildings.
Public Safety patrolling of beaches and park area.

Objectives for the Port and Industrial Area
- Harbor and port improvements to accommodate
increased boat and ship traffic.
- Water quality within the harbor area and its effect
on nearby prime tourist and public recreation
beaches.

Objectives for Infrastructure, Public Facilities and
Public Services
Matching the intensity of development with sup-
porting infrastructure*
Storm water disposal alternatives for direct dis-
charge into the Lagoon.
Effectiveness of the CNMI planning process.
Cost sharing of public infrastructure improvements
which support tourist and commercial facilities.
Role of the Coastal Resources Management Program.
Solid waste management programs for dealing with
trash and beach litter.
Public. Safety patrolling of beaches and park areas.

Objectives for Building and Physical Design Standards
Landscaping requirements for shoreline commercial
developments.
The Government's responsibility for complying with
standards and for enforcing the standards.
Reasonable parking requirements and sign
regulations.
Establishing density, height and bulk standards for
structures.
Maintaining view corridors.

The following is a list of primary objectives and opinions elicited
from SALAPAT #1 Participants.
- Limit Saipan's industrial area to the present northern
boundary of Lower Base.
- Develop regulations to control stormwater runoff and
erosion.
- Intersperse hotellresort development along the Saipan
Lagoon shoreline.
- More developed public beach sites are needed along the
southern shoreline.
- A boat launching ramp and reef pass in the northern
lagoon would be very helpful to fishermen.
Strongly protect the mangrove swamps (Northern Port
and at Memorial Park), lagoon wrecks and the Managaha

Island reef (perhaps an underwater park and marine
sanctuary).
Eliminate and seal-off the Puerto Rico dump as soon as
possible.
Establish a small boat operator's licensing and safety
program.
Prohibit motorized vehicles on beaches.
Increase public beach restrooms and improve main-
tenance of existing beach restroom facilities.
Dredge harbor basin and access channel to accommodate
larger and deeper draft vessels.
Establish engineering plans for abatement of storm
water discharge into the Lagoon.
Step-up public relations within the CRM program.
Need enforcement and fines for littering and illegal
dumping, including dead animals.
Provide for CRM inspectors to issue littering citations.
Increase room rate taxes to help defer costs of lagoon
and beach improvements.
Establish landscaping regulations for commercial, and
resort development projects.
Prohibit fencing of beachfront properties.
Pass legislation to enact a zoning law and promulgate
the necessary rules and regulations to accompany that
legislation.
Small boating facilities need general upgrading.
Fish and wildlife rules and regulations should be ex-
panded to include the Lagoon.
Uphold traditional uses of the Lagoon and shoreline
whenever and wherever possible, especially in the
villages of San Roque and Tanapag.
Use of trees as windbreaks for barbecue fires is
causing irreversible damage to many shoreline trees.
Continue to regulate the taking of coral.
Identify underwater, historically- significant properties.
Developers should share in the cost of providing basic
infrastructure.
Consider relocation of Hopwood High School to an inland
site.
Public lands which. are leased for -resort - devtq9Rment
purposes should require a portion of the area to
dedicated for public use.
Include a village representative when planning for a
project in a particular village.
Total disrepair of the sanitary sewer system deserves
priority attention.
Revoke MPLC lease permits which are not being deve-
loped in accordance with the terms and conditions of
the lease.
Correct the sewage backwash problem at Agingan Point.
Investigate cause and abatement of jellyfish which are a
seasonal nuisance around the Micro Beach area.

Repair sewage' outfall at Charlie Dock, and possibly
relocate to outer reef as an ocean outfall.
Government should require safe swimming areas in front
of - hotels.
Consider centralized location for rental of beach para-
phernalia.
Provide better visitor information regarding water
recreation in the Lagoon.
Provide a plan for maintaining view corridors to the
Lagoon.
Emphasize property coverage rather than height limita-
tions for hotel development. However, a height limit
should be set.
Consider relocating the Legislature away from Civic
Park.
At the upcoming Constitutional Convention, seek a
minimum amount of funds to be dedicated for new CIP's.
Consider levying impact fees when large developments
(hotels and subdivisions) hook-up existing public
infrastructure.
Provide for more parking near to beach accesses.
Curtail the junk car business along Beach Road.
Limit the authentic nfisheriesn activities to the Port
area, not the other docks.
Consider an International Market Place at the American
Memorial Park.
Follow the OTSP Master Plan for Beach Road.
Consider the acquisition of lands bordering Beach Road.
Establish areas for aquaculture and mariculture.
Require mandatory sewer hook-ups for residences and
businesses.
Make provisions for local stormwater drainage based on
natural developments.
Coordinate the Saipan Lagoon Use Management Plan with
the Chalan Kanoa Redevelopment Plan.
Consider property taxes as a revenue@ source.
Establish a sign control law.

2. SALAPAT TWO
primary purpose of SALAPAT TWO was to get participantst
opinions about the proposed plans of action and other ideas about
how to best achieve the Saipan Lagoon Use Management Plan objec-
tives from the SALAPAT One consensus. Reference materials and
proposed alternative plans were provided to all participants. This
material included the following:
A synopsis of the objectives that were established
during SALAPAT ONE.
A general description of proposed plans of action to
achieve each of these objectives.
Several sets of proposed regulations for such subjects
as landscaping, signs and shoreline setbacks.

Major discussions about issues relating to project areawide
oojectives as well as to ecological zone objectives are listed below.
Project Areawide Objectives
- Public Information
Community Planning
- Financing
- Land Use Planning

On-shore Ecological Zone Objectives
- Zoning and Land Use
- Public Recreation Facilities
- Public Facilities and Infrastructure
- Conservation of Resources

Beach Strand Ecological Zone Objectives
- Beach Use
- Beach Protection
- Beach Structures

Near-shore Ecological Zone Objectives
- Water Supply
- Stormwater Discharge
- Mangrove Protection

Lagoon Ecological Zone Objectives
- Water Quality
- Sea Farming
Preservation of Resources

SALAPAT TWO participants generally agreed with the
proposed and/or alternative plans that were recommended for
the project areawide and for the various ecological zones for
achieving each objective.
The following comments, grouped by category of objectives
within each ecological zone, were underscored by various
groups of participants.
Project Areawide
Public Information
Visitor information should be improved in both
quality and comprehensiveness of data.
Public information regarding CIP data should be
made available on a regular basis. Local businesses
must be kept informed of the planned improvements
resulting from this project.

Community Planning
- The formation of a Planning Commission for review
of public and private projects was supported.
- Retaining traditional values and uses are extremely
important objectives. However, rather than only
11preservation of traditional uses," per se, as an
objective, the emphasis should be on "enhancing the
overall quality of life."

This Saipan Lagoon Use Management Plan must be
adopted by legislation in order to be fully effective.

Financing
- Earmarking a fixed percentage of the Hotel Tax for
lagoon-oriented infrastructure improvements is
feasible. -
- EDLF loans now earmarked for marine industries can
be targeted for Saipan Lagoon improvements.
- Assessments for new, large scale developments may
attain some success, but they should not be applied
to such an extent that they become a disincentive
to economic growth.' Such assessments should not
be applied within areas that are specifically
targeted for development. The existing Utility Rate
Structure should be used as the basis of such
assessments.
- Any financing scheme for the Saipan Lagoon
project area is likely to overlap islandwide and this
impact must be understood and accounted for in the
final recommendations for financing.
Quite likely, the financing of improvements will
have to be worked into the CNMI annual operating
budget.
Taxes, per se, are an unacceptable form of
financing the recommended improvements.
Federal Funds (especially UDAG) should be sought
to finance as many improvements as possible.

On-shore Ecological Zone
- Land Use and Zoning
The proposed Zoning and Land Use District
Legislation should be adopted in its entirety, along
with adjustments that may result from this PLAN.
The proposed zoning and land use recommendations
should be implemented immediately on all CNMI
owned lands.
In developing the Public Market Place, special
attention must be paid to maintaining adequate
sanitation.
Businesses should organize among themselves to
self-police the proposed sign regulations.
Conflicts must be removed among the land use plans
of this project; the proposed Zoning and Land Use
District Legislation and MPLC's Land Use Plans.
- Public Facilities and Infrastructure
- Public Works has already adopted the OTSP
Transportation Plan for the Beach Road and Middle
Road Corridors.
- Mandatory sewer hook-up should be pursued.
Possibly, this program can be initially bankrolled
from a revolving loan fund.

0 & M of public infrastructure requires a
guaran-ceeci source of funding. Future Federai
grant conditions may carry O&M requirements as a
prerequisite for funding.
Conservation of Resources
- Control of litter requires more than stepped-up
enforcement. Societal education is required,
starting in the early school years.
- CRMO must work more closely with DPS to achieve
"low-level" enforcement.
- All "Saipan Lagoon project area" proposed in-
frastructure should be integiated with islandwide
infrastructure planning and development.

Beach Strand Ecological Zone
Beach Use Objectives
The Department of Defense, specifically the Army
Reserve, should be contacted for assistance in
removing or relocating hazardous war relics.

Near-shore Ecological Zone
Mangrove Protection
The proposed Garapan Flood Control Project will.
create an estuary for planting of new mangroves.

VOLUME I

PART B

PRESENTATION OF DATA AND ANALYSES

PLANNING AREA

AND

PROJECT AREAWIDE

CHAPTER I - PUNTAN MAGPI PLANNING AREA

For discussion purposes, Planning Area 1 (Puntan Magpi) is divided
into two sections. The northern portion extends from the point just south
of Unai Dikike Matuis (Boomtown Beach) north to the far end of Wing Beach.
This portion of the Saipan Lagoon essentially consists of an inner and outer
reef flat and the reef margin but does not contain a deeper lagoon or moat
area as does most of the rest of the Lagoon. Therefore, for this northern
portion of Area 1 the ecological zones will consist of the near-shore zone
(inner and outer reef flat) and the reef margin and reef slope zones. The
remainder of Area 1,, south to Unai Tanapag, includes the majority of the
northern Saipan Lagoon and contains the four ecological zones described
earlier.

A. Natural Resources

1. Living Marine Resources

a. Northern Portion - Inner and Outer Reef Flat (near-shore)
The near-shore or reef flat zone of the northern portion 'of
Area 1 is characterized by a rock-
.f shoreline with relatively
steep slopes and low cliffs along a limestone terrace. Many
locations of the northern lagoon consist of cut benches or a
rocky shoreline which borders the inner reef flat platform;
Isolated' pockets or short stretches of beach deposits are com-
mon and are comprised primarily of sand with some gravel and
coral/algal rubble.
From the area known as Unai Dikike Matuis (sometimes
known as Boomtown Beach) to the northern extremity of Wing
Beach the reef flat platform averages approximately 160 m wide.
Predominant corals include A@ro ora formosa, Acropora as]2 era .
POcillo2ora datnicornis, Poc lopora eydouxi, Porites lutea,
Psammocora sp. anZil H;Iiopora coerulea.
Other corals common in ffils-area include species of the
genus Favia, HXdnophora, Leptastrea, Stvlophora and Galaxia.'
The ou7terreef flat is characterized by a rich and diverse coral
community with 75 - 100% coral cover in much of the area.
Depth of the outer reef is shallow, between 0.5 - l..0 m. Some
of the Acro2ora beds and portions of the reef marcrin are awash
at low tide.
Coral cover lessens to 25 - 40% midway to shore and aver-
ages only 10 - 20% along the inner reef flat. Coral species are
similar to the outer reef flat with Acropora and Pocillopora
being the dominant forms. Water depth increases near shore to
an average of 1.0 - 1.5 m.
There are no seagrasses present in this area and only a
few species of algae were observed, including Turbinaria
ornata, Halimeda opuntia, Padina tenuis, Chlorodesmis fastigii@t_a
calcicola.
and 'Sc None o these algal s-pecies were
dominant or comprised a. very high percentage of substrate
cover.

Puntan Magpi Planning Area

Fish fauna in this area is quite rich and several schools of
fish were obsez-,-ed movna through the reef flat. A large
' T C;
school of goatfish (Mulloidichthys flavolineatus) comprised of
approximately 500 individuals and a group of approximately 5 0
mullet (IAza vaigiensis) were observed. Other common fishes
included 5iiirotfishes (Scaridae), wrasses (Labridae), rabbitfish
(Siganidae), surgeonfishes (especiall,
.f Acanthurus triostegus),
needlefish (Belonidae) and damselfish-7-omacentridae). One
small (1.2 m) reef blacktip shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus)
was also observed.
Amesbury, et. al. (1979) reports that this habitat contains
a moderate diversity of fish. Important fishes include goatfish
(Mullidae), juvenile parrotfish, surgeonfish (Acanthuridae),
snappers (Lutjanidae), wrasses and rabbitfish.

b. Northern Portion - Reef Margin and Slope
The reef margin and slope at the north end of Wing Beach
is accessible from shore by divers who enter and exit via a
narrow cut in the reef. This is a popular dive spot for
residents and tourists and entry is usually possible, except
during times of rough sea conditions.
Coral cover is rather sparse as one moves away from the
margin and the rich coral fauna found in the surge zone.
Species here are comprised mostly of hearty, wave-resistant
forms such as Pocillopora eydouxi, Stylophora mordax, Porites
sp.9 Psammacora sp., Acopora nasuta, A. humilis, A. wardi,
A. surculosa,_ Pocillop'ora setchelli,. T. eiegans - and P.
Verrucosa. Coral cover in this zone var-l-ed from approximatOly
50 - @@O6.
Deeper water (3 - 20 m) coral fauna is also very diverse
with coral cover in many sections of the reef ranging from 30 -
50%, although other areas had significantly lower coverage.
Except for the reef opposite Wing Beach, there is very little
apparent reef damage from Acanthaster planci (crown-of -thorns
starfish). In fact, no Acanthaster were observed during a tow
along the outside of the barrier reef which covered approx-
imately one kilometer.
Dominant corals along the outer barrier reef of Planning
Area 1 include Stylophora mordax, Acropora nasuta, Pocillopora
eVdouxi . Acropora smithi, Millepora platyphylla and M.
dichotoma, and Poritet@ -1utea. Soft corals (Sinularia sp.) were
patchy but very abun(fa-nt in some areas. Other conspicuous
corals observed were Favia stelligera, Stylaster sp. , Acropora
palffera sp. , GoniasFtrea retif6rmis, Fungia sp. , Pavona
duerdeni, Porites rus, Diploastrea heliopora and
phrygia.
Fish diversity is high in this area and all along the seaward
portions of the barrier reef north of the Tanapag Channel.
Amesbury, et. al. (1979), reported that the greatest fish
diversity he observed occurred in this habitat. The highest
abundance was recorded here for surgeonfishes (especially
Acanthurus lineatus), parrotfish (Scaridae), large wrasses

1-2

Puntan Magpi Planning Area

(Labridae). groupers (Serranidae) and rudderfish (Kyphosus
sp.) Other fishes observed include the reef whitetip shark
(Triaenodon obesus), spotted reef r (Taeniura melanospilos),
a very large tanguisson (Cheilinus undulatus), barracuda
(Sphyraena barracuda), breams (Scolopsis cancellatus) ,
emperors (Lethrinus sp.), snappers (Lutjanus sp. jacks
(Caranx sp., squirrelfish (Adioryx sp.) and bigeyes
(Myripristis sp.).
Conspicuous macroinvertebrates observed in this area
include the starfish Acanthaster planci (Wing Beach area only),
Culcita novaeguineae, Linckia laevigata, L. Multifora and L.
guildingi, the sea urchins Echinometra mathaei and Echinothrix
sp., miscellaneous sponges and a few crinoids.

c. Near-shore
The near-shore area of the remainder of Planning Area 1
encompasses the area from just north of the seaplane ramps in
Tanapag Harbor north to the point just south of Unai Dikike
Matuis. The near-shore environment is comprised mostly of
seagrasses and algae -growing on a substrate of sand, silt and
coral/algal rubble with occasional rocky shoreline sections and
several beaches.
The near-shore area from the point south of Unai Diki ke
Matuis to Unai Paupau consists mainly of the seagrass Halodule
uninervis on a sand and rubble substrate. Just south of the
point is an area where the alga Turbinaria ornata is dominant,
forming clumps and accounting approximately 40% coverage
in spots. Halodule, however, is the overall dominant form and
accounts for 10- 50% coverage along the shoreline and near-
shore zone. Other algae present include DictXota sp. and
Padina tenuis. Scattered corals are rare near-shore but occa-
sional small size Pocillopora damicornis and Porites lutea are
present in rubble areas. Occasional beds of Acropora are
present near-shore but are much more common in the lagoon
and reef flat areas.
The shoreline area opposite San Roque is characterized
primarily by Halodule which accounts for 40 - 50% of the cover.
Other common species are the blue-green algae Schizothrix
calcicola and Microcoleus lynghyaceus, as well as Lobophora
variegata, Padina tenuis, and Dictyota bartayresii.
Opposite and just of Puntan Achugau the near-shore
algal community is dominated by Sargassum polycystum (50 -
75%) with the remainder being mostly Halodule. Further south,
domiriant species include DDictyota, Halimeda opuntia and
Caulerpa. In the area of Unai Achugau the seagrass
Enhalus acoroides becomes the dominant species, with some
Halodule and Dictyota. Enhalus is often found in clumps (beds)
and in some areas, such as off Puntan Dogas and in the bay
north of Commercial Port (Unai Tanapag), it accounts for 40 -
80% cover. Occasional Porites lutea and Pocillopora damicornis
are found scattered throughout this area but are minor contri-
butors to the substrate coverage.

1-3

Puntan Magpi Planning Area
0 1

The only near-shore area of significant coral development
occurs directy of-' hore of Tanapag village, opposite Puntan
L Is
Dogas. This area is quite diverse in coral species but only
averages 20 - 30% live coral cover, with quite a lot of the coral
being dead. In isolated spots coral cover reaches approximately
50 - 60%. Thick Halodule beds occur just offshore and to the
east and west of 7Ch-ereef, with Halimeda macroloba also quite
common. Common corals found in this reef area include
Pocillopora damicornis, P. setchelli, Porites lutea, Acropora
virgata, A. f;-rmosa, Helopora coerulea-7-large IlTe-ads, -F- 10m
in diameter), Lobophyllia hemprichii, Psammocora. contigua,
Pavona venosa and Montipora sp. Less common corals observed
were Millepora dichotoma, Pocillopora danae, Stylophora. mordax.
and Favia sp. The starfish Culcita novaeguineae and Linckia
laevigata and the sea cucumbe-rsHolothuria atri-,H. edulis and
Synapta maculata were common along the nja:@ @shore zone and in
the coral areas.
Amesbury, et. al. (1979), reports that this near-shore
habitat, dominated by Enhalus and 'Halodule, contained the
highest counts of rabbitfish. (Si anus spinus and S. argenteus)
and snappers (mostly Lutja@_u_ws7_Yu_Ivus, L. kasmira, and L.
monostigmus). Many of these snappers observed were juvenile
To-rms. Also common in this habitat are goatfish (especially
Parupeneus barberinus), silversides (Atherinidae), breams
(SCO122sis- cancellatus) and emperors (Gnathodentex
aureoli-eatus, Lethrinus-harak and Monotaxis &iEandoculis).

d. Lagoon
The deeper Lagoon waters of Area 1 are generally char-
acterized by a sand and/or rock and rubble substrate with
various species of algae and seagrass along with scattered
corals and occasional small patch reefs. The Lagoon from the
point south of Unai Dikike Matuis to approximately opposite
Puntan Dogas is mostly a sand and coral rubble bottom with
scattered corals usually comprising less than five percent
coverage. The lagoon areas opposite Unai Paupau and San
Roque are characterized by rich Acropora beds which at times
account for up to 30% coverage. These zones of Acropora
extend out to the landward fringes of the outer reef flat.
Lagoon depth varies from two to three meters here. .
Dominant corals in the Lagoon from Puntan Dogas north
include Aacropora formosa, A. aspera, Pocillopora damicornis,
Stylophora. mordax ;U @dPori:Fes lutea. Some of the Acropora
beds cover 7OW-of the substrate as in the areas north of-San
Roque and Unai Paupau. Many times the Acropora is dead
underneath with only portions of the upper surface and pe-
riphery being alive. Fishing (especially spearfishing) is com-
mon around these Acropora thickets. The branching corals
provide shelter several species of squirrelfish
(Holocentridae) , damselfish (Pomacentridae), goatfish
(Mullidae), snappers (Lutjanidae) and juvenile parrotfish
(Scaridae) . Common species include Flammeo opercularis, F.

1-4

Puntan Magpi Planning Area

sammara, Mulloidichthys flavolineatus. Lutjanus kasmira,
Chromis sp. and Adioryx inifer.
The sand and rubble areas of the Lagoon support patchy
growth of algae and seagrasses such as Schizothrix calcicola,
Microcoleus lyngbyaceus, Halodule uninervis, Halophila minor,
Avrainvillea lacerata, Dictyota bartayresii, Caulerpa sp.,
Hilimeda macroloba and H. opuntia.
The remainder of the Lagoon zone in Area 1 offshore of
Unai Tanapag west to the boundary near Managaha Island is
mostly a sand and coral/algal rubble bottom, varying in depth
from 3 - 10 m. Water depth is generally greatest near the
center of the Lagoon and near the Tanapag Harbor channel and
basin. Although there is no extensive coral development on the
Lagoon bottom, numerous patch reefs and isolated coral heads
occur throughout the Lagoon. Major species include Porites
lutea, Pocillopora damicornis, Millepora dichotoma, Heliopora
coerulea, Stylophora mordax, Pocillopora danae, P. elegans,
Acropora aspera, A. hebes, A. tenuis, A. nasuta, A. studeri,
A. palifera, Favia sp., Platygyra pini, Lobophyllia sp., Porites
cylindrica and Pavona venosa.
Algae and seagrasses common in the deeper Lagoon include
Microcoleus lyngbyaceus, Halodule uninervis, Halophila minor,
Halimeda opuntia, H. macrolobo and Dictyota sp. In the mid-
Lagoon area east of Managaha Island and north of the port and
harbor close to the reef flat are large patches of Halodule
intermixed with 'lesser amounts of Microcoleus. Cloud originally,
described these areas in 1959, but they were much more exten-
sive at the time, extending from just east of Managaha to Unai
Tanapag and Puntan Dogas. Amesbury, et. al. (1979) des-
cribed the area as being covered with a mat of the blue-green
alga Microcoleus but reported no Halodule. It is possible that
areas such as this may change with time, and that algal and
seagrass species coverage could vary depending on changing
environmental conditions. Influences such as substrate distur-
bance from storms or typhoons or changes in water quality-or
temperature could affect these fast growing marine plants.
Fish species found in the deeper Lagoon areas are mostly
.bottom feeding species such as goatfish and mullet, and other
fish such as jacks, wrasses, cardinalfish and emperors.
bury, et. al. (1979) reports that fish diversity is low in this
type of habitat and that no economically important food fishes
are abundant here. Some species observed include Lethrinus
harak, Parupeneus barberinus, Mulloidichtys flavolineatus,
Dascyllus aruanus, Halichoeres trimaculatus, Stethojulis sp.,
Scarus sp., Siganus spinus, Bothus mancus, Rhinecanthus
aculeatus and Scomberoides lysan. While cruising slowly along
sandy bottom areas unidentified stingrays (possibly Taeniura
melanospila) were often observed.

e. Reef Flat
The reef flat within Area 1 is fairly similar along its entire
length. Water quality is excellent as the clear- ocean water

1-5

Puntan Magpi Planning Area

moves across the barrier reef into the Lagoon and exits through
the main Tanapag channel and other low areas and cuts in the
reef. As one moves from the Lagoon to the reef flat a rubble
and boulder/rubble zone appears with both coral coverage and
diversity increasing. Generally, the zone close to the reef
margin and just inside the margin are characterized by greater
species diversity and higher percent cover. Species common in
the outer reef flat include Acropora smithi, A. formosa, A.
nasuta, A. palffera, A. irregularis, . hebes, A. aspera,
Porites l7utea, P. cylindrica, P. ausir-ilie-ns-17's, P. convexa,
Pocillopora damicornis, P. danae, P. setchelli, P. verruc6sa,
Stylo]Rhora mordax, Psammocora digitata, P. contigua, Millepora
dichotoma, M. latifolia, Leptoseris sp., Pavona venosa, P.
divaricata, Fungia ungites, Favia favus, F.-matthaii,
Goniastrea r@_tiformis, G. pectinata, Diploastrea heliopora and
Platygyra pini. Other species include Alveopora sp., Astre@pora
myriophthalma, Leptastrea sp., Coniopora sp., Leptoria
phrygia, Montipora ehrenb2EEii, LA. sp. and Plesiastrea
versi2ora.
Coral cover within the reef flat zone varies from approx-
imately 5 - 20%, increasing closer to the reef margin. This
area of the barrier reef, including that from north of Tanapag
channel and opposite Managaha Island (Area 2) is by -far the
richest and most diverse in terms of coral development and
abundance of food fishes. At the time of this study, the
northern part of the barrier reef also showed less damage from
Acanthaster, with fewer individuals than on reefs south of
Tanapag channel.
Amesbury, et. al. (1979) reported that this zone is diverse
in regards to fish fauna with greater than 60 - 80 species
recorded. Particularly abundant are goatfish (Mullidae), ju-
venile parrotfish (Scaridae) and surgeonfish (Acanthuridae),
and it was one of the only areas where sharks were seen inside
the lagoon. Other common- fish here include snappers
(Lutj anidae) , wrasses (Labridae), parrotfish, rabbitfish
(Siganidae) and blue Chromis (damselfish). A complete species
listing can be found ii@ -Appendix A.

f. Reef Margin and Slope
The reef margin and reef slope within Area 1 are well
developed and diverse in terms of coral species and fish fauna.
Water quality is very good and the overall health and produc-
tivity of the area is much better than the barrier reef south of
the harbor which has been impacted more by fishing, har-
vesting, coral predation, siltation and decreased water quality.
Common corals observed along the reef margin and slope
include Stylo]2hora mordax and Pocillopora eydouxi which form
heads up to 1m in diameter; Acropora nasuta, A. tenuis and A.
sp. (up to 2m in diameter); fl-lepora pla@thylla, M.
dichotoma, Porites lutea, Acropora smithi, A. surculosa, Favia
stellir.era, F. pallida, Stylaster gracilis, Distichopora gracilis,
Goniastrea retiformis, Pavona duerdeni, P. clavus, Porites rus
and Eobo2hyllia corymbosa.

1-6

Puntan Magpi Planning Area

Coral cover varies from anoroximately 40 - 70%, and ar)-
proaches 85% cover near surge channels and other areas that
favor coral development. Soft corils were observed all along
the barrier reef and in a few locations accounted for as much
as 20 - 25% of the total coral cover. The most common soft
corals observed were Sinularia sp. and Sarcophyton sp.
Fishes observed Tn-this zone include the large tanguisson
(Chelinus undulatus), the snappers Lutjanus bohar and Macolor
niger skipjacE (Caranx: melampygus) t e groupers
Ce halopholis araus __Tn_d Epinephelus fasciatus, sweetlips
Plectorhynchus sp.), rudderfish Kyp-osus cinerascens),
several species of parrotfish (Scarus sp.), surgeonfish
(Acanthurus lineatus, A. triostegus, A. mata, Ct@nochaetus
striatus and Nas;' @hter@_tus), barracuda 7SpEvy-raena barracuda)
and t whit@_tip r-e-eF -shark (Triaenodon obesus). Amesbury-,
et. al. (1979), describes this zone of the-barrier reef as having
high species diversity, with the spur and groove system (surge
channels) having the greatest fish diversity of all areas of the
surgeonfish (especially Acanthurus lineatus), adult parrotfish,
large wrasses and large groupers. Other common fish include
rabbitfish, juvenile parrotfish, needlefish, squirrelfish, jacks,
snappers and goatfish.

2. Phxsical Marine Resources

a. Currents
specific or detailed investigations concerning water
movements in the Puntan Magpi Planning Area have been con-
ducted. However, based on general information and field
observations by Cloud (1959) and this investigative team it
appears that there is a general movement of water from the
northeast to the southwest. The prevailing curre-fi-t- is in-
fluenced by both the north equitorial. current and the north-
easterly trade winds. Oceanic water enters the Saipan Lagoon
across the barrier reef and is carried west and southwest along
the shoreline and across the Lagoon to an exit area. As there
are no large cuts or channels in the northern Lagoon, the
majority of the water exits out the mouth of Tanapag Harbor.

b. Water Quality
Water quality is generally excellent in the northi-r-nSbipan-
Lagoon. Mear, oceanic water is continually entering the lagoon
over the barrier reef and moves towards Tanapag Channel.
There are no rivers that empty into the Lagoon in this planning
area. San Roque and Tanapag villages each have one st-orm-
water outfall which empties into the Lagoon. There are no
sewage outfalls in Planning Area 1.
The CNMI Division of Environmental Quality (t@EQ-)-cur-
rently has 29 shoreline sampling stations within the project
area, and another 25 shoreline and 12 off-shore sampling points
at Managaha Island (currently sampling is taking place at only
11 stations at Managaha Island). The four sampling stations

1-7

Puntan Magpi Planning Area

located within the Puntan Magpi Planning Area are Wing Beach,
Paupau Beach, San Roque School and the Tanapag 'Meeting Hall.
Data for various water quality parameters are available at the
DEQ office. Figure 1-1 depi@ts locations the DEQ sampled for
fecal coliform and indicates the number of samples and violations
for the Puntan Magpi Planning Area as well as for the other six
planning areas.
Recent data available from the DEQ covering the period
October 1984 - March 1985 shows only one sample greater than
200/100 ml fecal coliform. The mean fecal coliform count for the
six-month period is 63/100 ml.

3. On-shore Resources

a. Wetlands
Only one wetland is located in Planning Area 1, a 4.7 acre
site located just south of Tanapag Village and bisected by West
Coast Highway. This wetland is almost a pure. strand of the
reed Phragmites karka (Karriso).

b. Rare, Threatened and Endangered Species
The only endangered species likely to occur in this
planning area is the Nightengale Reed Warbler (Acrocephalus
luscinia) which is found in forested areas and wetlands.
Although not that uncommon on Saipan at the present time, the
species is listed as endangered in the Federal Register through-
out its range. The Reed, Warbler once occurred on Guam,
primarily in the Agana Swamp area, but became extirpated on
Guam in the mid-1970's.
The green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) is known to have
nested in significant numbers on Wing Beach and the Division of
Fish and Wildlife reports that they still nest there in small
numbers. Green sea turtles are classified as threatened species
in the CNMI under Federal Law and very limited harvesting for
subsistence purposes only,is presently allowed. Efforts should
be made to control development along Wing Beach and ap-
propriate measures should be instituted to protect the nesting
turtles and their eggs from illegal activities by man.

B. Man-made Resources and Human Uses

1. Land Uses

a. Existing Development and Public Facilities
This rural-character Planning Area, which includes the
northernmost villages of Tanapag and San Roque escapes the
urban activity of nearby Garapan and Tanapag area. The
Tanapag and San Roque village areas are each closely clustered
and provincial in nature. The remaining land in this Planning
Area is now either undeveloped or in small scale agricultural
production.

1-8

Puntan Magpi Planning Area

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OuTrAw- ME]

1-9

Puntan Magpi Planning Area

b. Public Land Ownership and Access
Several scattered sites oi public land exist throughout this
Planning Area. In addition to three developed beach parks
(Unai Achugau, Unai Paupau and Wing Beach), the largest tract
of public land lies just southwest of Tanapag Village. This
tract is reserved by the Marianas Public Land Corporation for a
future homestead.

c. Recreation Sites
The following park and recreation facilities now exist within
Planning Area 1 (Table I-1).

Table I-1
RECREATION FACILITIES IN PUNTAN MAGPI PLANNING AREA

Park or Recreation Existing
Area Facilities

Wing Beach Access Road, compacted
coral, 1500 linear feet

Unai Dikike Matuis Access Road, coral,
1200 if

Unai Paupau Access Road, compacted
coral, 600 If
Picnic Tables
6 Camping Areas
Pavilion

Unai Achugau Access Road, coral,
200 If

Unai Tanapag Pedestrian accesses, two
at 300 If each
Parking along access road
(back road between
Public Works and
Tanapag)

d. Historic Sites
Underwater properties that are potentially historically
significant located in this planning area include a Japanese
Navy Flying Boat (Kawanishi H8K) sunk in approximately 35
feet of water and a popular dive location for tourists; a
Japanese 46-foot landing craft located approximately 25 feet
deep; the badly damaged hull of a Japanese cargo ship known

I-10

Puntan Magpi Planning Area

as the "Buov Wreck1l; and a partially destroved jappanese
Submarine C@aser (locally referred' to .as the "'Submarine")
which ls sunk in approximately 30 feet of water and regularly
visited by the glassbottom boat tours.

e. Beach Erosion and Stormwave Redistribution
There are no beach erosion sites within this Planning Area.
However, stormwave redistribution does deplete these beaches.

f. Stormwater Drainage
San Roque Village is located within the major natural drain-
age of a 150-acre watershed basin. Run-off is collected and
discharged at the southeastern corner of the village by means
of an open concrete culvert about four feet wide and six. feet
deep. The culvert leads for 1000 feet to Gross Island Road
where the stormwater is intercepted and conveyed northward
along the highway by a series of shallow earth-lined ditches
and small culverts.
The capacity of existing drainage is about 450 cubic feet
per second (cfs) or about half of the necessary capacity to
accommodate runoff from a storm with a frequency of occurrence
of ten years. Thus, the capacity is inadequate to accommodate
runoff from storms of even light to moderate intensity. Aside
from these inadequacy, the concrete channel is also a safety
hazard because of its depth and proximity to the roadway.

2. Economic Resources

a. Subsistence Fishing and Gathering
The near-shore and lagoon nreas of the Puntan Magpi
Planning Area are important for subsistence fishing, especially
along Tanapag and San Roque villages and Unai Achugau and
Unai Paupau. Throw-net (Talaya) fishermen were observed
walking the beaches and shoreline in search for schools of small
fish. Snorkelers and spearfishermen were also observed in the
Lagoon, and the park area just south of the church at Tanapag
is frequently used as a launching area for small boats.

b. Tourism Industrx
TFiere is no tourism industry at the present; however,----_--
Japan Air Lines is planning to construct Hotel Nikko Saipan, a
12-story, 320 room resort complex just north of -San Roque
village.

CHAPTER II - TANAPAG HARBOR PLANNING AREA

Planning Area 2 includes the Tanapag Harbor channel, harbor basin and
the deeper areas of the harbor proper. For the near-shore environment,
Area 2 encompasses the shoreline from the two seaplane ramps at Puntan
Flores south to the southeastern boundary of the Puerto Rico Dump. Much
of the marine environment in Area 2 has been altered or disturbed over the
years through such activities as dredging, filling, construction, effluent
discharges and impacts associated with the dump. Saipan's harbor, com-
mercial port and power plant are also located in Area 2.

A. Natural Resources

1. Living Marine Resources

a. Near-shore
The near--7shore zone of Area 2 represents the most dis-
turbed shoreline of the entire Saipan Lagoon. The harbor and
basin areas have been dredged, primarily during the 1930's and
1940's and several fastland piers and spits of land have been
constructed, subdividing the shoreline into several small embay-
ments. Wreckage, primarily dating from World War II and
shortly thereafter, provides a major substratum in shallow near-
shore areas. Numerous barges, probably'__u'_s'_ed_'__'_as_ floating
piers, exist along the shoreline and in shallow bays.
A small embayment just north of Delta Dock contains the
only significant mangrove stand on Saipan. The mangrove tree
Bruauiera gymnorrhiza extends from the shallow inner portion
of this fine silt ang-sand substrate embayment approximately
400 m into the small, drainage basin/wetland area across the
bridge from the bay. This is one of only two mangrove areas
left on Saipan, and it should be protected from filling or other
construction activities or discharges which would have a nega-
tive impact on them.
The dominant organisms comprising the highest percent
coverage of the near-shore environment are the marine plants.
The seagrass Enhalus acoroides is the dominant species along
shore in the many embayments where it comprises 30 - 95% of
the bottom substrate. Other common marine plants which are
locally dominant include Schizothrix calcicola, Polysiphonia
scopulorum, Halophila minor, Microcoleus lyngbyaceus, Halimeda
macroloba, H. gigas, H. opuntia, Halodu e uninervis, Lobophora
variegata, Dictyota bart resu and Gelidium pusillum. Doty and
Marsh (1977) did-a compreh;;nsive . : j; 11 surmey-of_
the area from Unai Sadog Tasi to Puntan Flores in February
and June 1976. Data from this study indicate percent coverage
for marine plants varied from a low of 22% in Baker Bay and
23% in outer Charlie Bay to a high of 9 o off Able Dock and 91%
along the southwestern side of Baker -Dock.-- A 'total of 63
species of marine plants was reported for the study area-in this
report.
Corals in the near-shore environment of Area 2 are gen-
erally sparse or absent to locally common, depending upon the

II-1

Tanapag Harbor Planning Area
I I

substrate. Piers and wharfs, many sunken barges, pilings and
other wreckage provide excellent substrate for corals and keep
them above the bottom where they would otherwise not survive
because of heavy siltation. The major corals found attached to
metal or concrete objects are Pocillopora damicornis, Porites
lutea and Millepora dichotoma. Small scattered colonies of P.
damicornis and P. lutea were observed in the bays and among
seagrass beds and where rock or coral rubble substrate af-
forded a place of attachment.
Doty and Marsh (1977) reported a total of 28 species of
corals from their study area with percent cover ranging from a
low of 8.4% at the end of Able Dock to a high of 49.2% on the
northeastern side of Baker dock. - Charlie Bay averaged 29.8
percent coral cover. In this study the most abundant corals
were Pocillopora damicornis, Porites. lutea, Millepora dichotoma,
Montipora lobulata, M. verrilli, Leptastrea purpurea, Goniastrea
retiformis, Acropora aspera and A. palifera.
The fish fauna of 'th;;- inshore zone of Area 2 is not very
diverse or rich and contains rather low numbers of desirable
food fishes. The sand and silt substrate, mangrove area, low
visibility and lack of larger forms of corals and reef structure
which provides holes for protection are factors affecting the
abundance of fish fauna in this zone. Fishes observed during
this study and by Amesbury, et. al. (1979), include mullets
(Mugilidae), slipmouths (Leiognathus sp.), rabbitfish (Siganus
spMus and S. argenteus), snappers (Lutjanidae) and damselfish
(Pamacentrii-ae).
Doty and Marsh (1977) censused fishes in this area over a
period of four months. More than 5000 fishes of nearly 75
species were counted in the area. The damselfishes
(Pomacentridae) were the most abundant group, with the two
species Chromis caerulea and Dascyllus aruanus accounting for
appro@dmately 501-o d-2096, respectively of the number of fishes
seen. The sharp-backed puffer, Canthigaster solandri
(Canthigasteridae), was the most ubiquitous fish. The sur-
geonfish Ctenochaetus striatus (Acanthuridae) was also fre-
quently seen. There are undoubtedly a considerable number of
fish species which occur in Tanapag Harbor which were not ob-
served during this study, particularly roving predators such as
jacks (Carangidae), snappers (Lutjanidae), and goatfishes
(Mullidae), seasonally abundant fishes, such as rabbitfishes
(Siganidae), nocturnally active fishes, such as squirrelfishes
(Holocentridae) and cardinal fishes (Apogonidae), cryptic or
secretive fishes (Gobiidae, Blenriiidae, Scorpaenidae) and var-
ious eels. The fishes which are best represented in these
surveys are those most closely tied to specific defended ter-
ritories or limited home ranges (Doty and Marsh, 1977).
Benthic invertebrate assemblages were studied in six areas
during the 1977 report by Doty and Marsh. The only species
occurring in all areas studied was the gastropod mollusc Lambis
lambis. Other common organisms were the gastropod Cyprae
erosa, the bivalve Saxostrea mordax, the echinoid Mespilia

11-2

Tanapag Harbor Planning Area

alobulus, and the sea cucumber Holothuria atra. The greatest
diversity was found from Able Do to Unai Sadog Tase. Baker
Bay and deeper parts of Charlie Bay both were similarly poor
in invertebrate fauna, but the shoal areas in Charlie Bay were
richer. Molluscus and echinoderms were found more frequently
with distance away from the dredged area around the power
barge. Shifting fine sediments and turbid water resulting from
past dredging and wind and wave action probably inhibit coloni-
zation of Baker bay by most macroinverteb rates. Other common
species observed in the nearshore' environment include the
gastropod Cerithium sp., the bivalve, Grafrarium pectinatum,
the starfisg Linckia laevigata and Culcita' novaeguineae and the
se@ cucumbe-rs Bohadschia argus, B. bivittata, Holothuria
leucospilota,, Stichopus chloronotus and 8. horrens.

b. Lagoon anci Patch Reefs
The Lagoon zone oZ Area 2 includes the deeper portions of
the harbor basin, main channel and other portions of the
Lagoon that eventually grade out past the patch reefs at the
month of the channel into the deep oceanic water west of the
Lagoon. There is no barrier reef or reef margin zone in this
Planning Area.
The Lagoon floor is composed of large stretches of sand and
coral/algal rubble overlain in the deeper areas and by a layer
of fine silt and ,clay in those portions of the Harbor that have
been dredged. Visibility in this zone is generally poor as wind
driven waves and currents easily disturb the fine bottom sedi-
ments. Scattered throughout the Lagoon floor a_r_e__isol_ated_______
outcrops of coral and patch reefs, some rising 3 - 6 m from the
bottom. Many of these patch reefs are mostly dead corali with
encrusting forms such as sponges, with only 5 - 10% live coral.
Some of the sand and rubble areas contain Halodule uninervis,
Caulma racemosa, C. serrulata, C. vJ =cillaUa, Halimeda
opunt a. @i. gigas, H. macroloba, Pad tenuis, Dictyota
bart!@yresii and SchizoI7hrix_c_a_rc_icola.
Gorals common to the numerous patch reefs and attached to
the myriad of junk that lies on the bottom (mostly near the
harbor basin and in the vicinity of the main ship channel)
include Pocillopora damicornis, P. eydouxi, Acropora hebes, A.
palifera, A. nasuta, A. surculosa, Sty'02hora mordax,'-P;H1Fes____
lutea, P. cylinUr-1-ca, Montipora lobulata, M. verrilli, Millepora
dicEo-toma, sarcophytori--s-p-.--Tsift-coral), ECe-liopora-coerulea,
PavonY-dec'ussata, P. divaricata, Acrhelia horrescens and
Stylo eniella armata. Many of these species are encrusting
forms that are tolerant to siltation or branching forms that grow
rather rapidly.
The patch reefs tend to become more numerous away from
the harbor basin where the bottom is less silty and water
quality is better. Towards the mouth of the channel and close
to the tip of the northern barrier reef water quality increases
as does the number and size of the patch reefs. Water depth
ranges from 8 - 12 m in this area, whereas the deeper

11-3

Tanapag Harbor Planning Area

(dredged) portions of the basin and inner harbor extend to 18
M. Coral cover in the western portion of Area 2 ranges from
approximately 5 - 20%, and the patch reefs have a higher
percent of live coral than the central and eastern portions of
the channel and harbor (10 - 50%).
The patch reefs near the channel mouth and south of the
barrier reef are one of the few places in the Saipan Lagoon
where significant amounts of reef building coralUne algae were
observed. Goreau (1969) states that the slope just south of the
top of the barrier reef had the richest growth of coralline algae
he observed anywhere on. Saipan. Dominant algae include
Porolithon sp., Lithothamnium sp. and Amphiroa sp.
The patch reefs along the Lagoon floor of-the channel and
harbor basin support a moderate diversity of fishes. Snappers
(Lutjanidae), juvenile and adult parrotfish (Scaridae), rabbit-
fish (Siganidae) and goatfish (Mullidae) were among the most
common groups of fishes observed. Amesbury, et.al. (1979),
identified between 40 - 60 species here, with juvenile parrotfish
and snappers (especially Lutjanus kasmira) comprising their
highest counts anywhere in the Lagoon. Other common fishes
include parrotfish, surgeonfish (Acanthuridae), Cardinalfish
(Apogonidae), blue Chromis, squirrelfish (Holocentridae) ,
groupers (Serranidae) and wrasses (Labridae). The most
important species were Apogon saipanensis, Epinephelus merra,
Lutjanus fulvus, Aprion virescens, Lethrinus harak, L. ramak,
Monotaxis grandoculis, Parupeneus barberinus, P. trRasciatus,
pleurostigma, Cheilinus chlorurus C. trilobatus, Halichoeres
trimaculatus, Thalassoma lutescens, Scarus chlorodon, S.
forsteri, @. ghobban, S. sordidus, S - osus, Acanthurus
mata, A. olivaceous, A. xanthopterus, Naso brevirostris, N.
literatus, N. unicornis and Siganus spinus.

2. Physical Marine Resources

a. Currents
'The currents. in the Tanapag Harbor and Commercial Port
area have been previously investigated by the University of
Guam Marine Laboratory (Doty and Marsh, 1977). The currents
in outer Tanapag Harbor and channel are less well known.
The 1977 study of the area around Baker Bay showed that
wind speed and direction primarily control the movement of
surface waters in the harbor. Drogues released in Baker Bay
generally moved downwind toward the west or southwest.
Evidence of an eddy system in the bay near the outfall was also
observed, especially by the deeper (5 meter) drogues. The
maximum average current speed recorded was 0.13 m/sec (0.25
knots). No evidence was observed to indicate any tidal move-
ments. Figures II-1 - 11-3 show some typical results obtained
during the 1977 survey.
Surface currents in Tanapag Harbor generally move towards
the mouth of the Harbor. Deeper currents move generally in
the same direction but are slower than the surface currents.

11-4

Tanapag Harbor Planning Area

r G

* start
* 1-m drogue 0 meters 200
* 5-m droque

B (see above)

A C

E D

* start
* 5-m droque 0 meters 100

Figure II-L Drogue drift paths for 20 March 1976.
G

Source: Doty and -Marsh, 1977.

11-5

Tanapag Harbor Planning Area

C D

D
F E

B F
A

G
H
D E C

C
F A B E G
H

WIND
A meters 1 mise
0 100 200 N
a
DROGUE SCALE

-Tigur-e--IJ@2- Drogue drif t paths Eor 12 June 1976. a and c. 5-M
drogues. b. 1-m drogue. Source: - Doty..and. Marsh, 1977

11-6

Tanapag Harbor Planning Area

a
12 J u n e 197ro t
0900-1200
Falling Tide

0 m1min 10 0 meters
vECTOR Sc@@E, MAP SCALE

b
12 June 1976
1620 -1725
RI-sing Tide

0 m/min 10 0 meters 100
I MA ALE

Figure 11-3. Currentsin and near Baker Bay. Arrow lengths are
proportional to current speed.e no movement.
Source: Doty an&Marsh, 1977.
m/min 10 0 meter
T@ @@A
0
]V- E @-C SC LE

11-7

Tanapag Harbor Planning Area

In a 1980 survey for the Army Corps of Engineers, 'M & E
Pacific, inc. reported that the outflow from the harbor and'
basin area is transported seaward through both the harbor
entrance and through openings in the noncontinuous reef struc-
ture. These findings are in agreement with the generalizations
postulated by Cloud (1959).

b. Water Quality
The water quality of the harbor is generally poorer than
the rest of the Lagoon as it receives runoff from the port, the
sewage effluent from the outfall south of Charlie Dock and
leachate and debris from the Puerto Rico Dump. The Division
of Environmental Quality (DEQ) currently has three water
sampling stations in this Planning Area (seaplane ramp, lower
base drainage channel/outfall and next to Puerto Rico Dump).
In addition, the DEQ has recently set up several sampling
regimes near the dump and outfall to monitor short and long
term environmental impacts caused by these facilities. Data on
water quality parameters analyzed by the DEQ lab are available
from their office. Although it varies according to location these
parameters include Fecal Coliform, BOD, Chloride, Salinity,
Dissolved 0 PH, Turbidity, Temperature, Total Coliform,
Suspended olids, Total Nitrogen, Ammonia Nitrogen and Total
Phosphorus. Water quality * monitoring station sites and data
regarding occurrence and violations of fecal coliform standards
are depicted on Figure I-1 of this Volume.
Recent data of the eight sampling stations at Mobil Oil
d a control (both
Beach, all around Puerto Rico outfall an
surface and bottom samples at each location) indicates only
those stations directly above the outfall. and 100 ft. north @f
the outfall had fecal coliform. values exceeding 200/100 ml. The
mean for the surface samples above the outfall was 12,200/100
ml, for bottom samples at the outfall was 375,2681100 ml and for
the surface samples 100 ft. north of the outfall was 1031100 m
(two individual samples of 2011100 ml were collected).
The combination of a fine silt/mud bottom in the harbor and
the silt-laden water entering the Lagoon from the port area
severely reduces water clarity (visibility). Winds and currents
coming from the northeast tend to stir up and suspend these
fine bottom sediments. It is obvious when riding along the
surface or towing underwater when one has entered the port/
harbor area as there is a distinct border between the clear
Lagoon water and the silt plume which normally extends as far
as 1000 - 1500 m from shore.

3. On-shore Resources

a. Wetlands
Two we land. areas occur in the Tanapag Harbor Planning
Area. One is a small tidal estuary and associated wetland
located at the north end of the Commercial Port area where a
small stream flows under the road and empties into a small

11-8

Tanapag Harbor Planning Area

embavment between Delta Dock and Echo Ba-,.r. The outer
portion of this wetland is described in the section below (b.
Mangroves).
It is likely that this entire wetland was once a small bay
which opened into the harbor. With the placement of roads and
fill the outlet has been reduced to a streambed. The drainage
ditch is dominated by the reed Phragmites karka (Karriso).
Other common vegetation includes Hibiscus tiliaceus (Pago),
Leucaena leucocephala (Tanagan-tangan), Pit]3-ecellobium dulce
(Kamac ) an various common grasses such as Pani:un@ -and
Pennisetum. The entire wetland area occupies approximately
44.2 acres.
The second wetland area is located on both sides of West
Coast Highway opposite Unai Tanapag. This somewhat small
site (4.6 acres) is primarily a Phramites karka marsh on the
north side of the road. To the east, Me area is more open and
somewhat drier and dominated by Ludwigia octivalvis (Primrose
willow), cultivated Ipomoea aquatica CKa_n`gk_u_n_T_, Leucaena
leucocel2hala (Tangan-tangan) and Hibiscus tiliaceus (Pago)..

b. Mangroves
The extent of mangroves in Planning Area 2 is limited to an
.extremely small tidal estuary at the mouth of a storm drainage
basin at Lower Base toward the northern extreme of Puntan
Tanapag. The area of tidal influence extends to the road,
through a culvert and north along the road -approximately_ 20 m.___
This area continues north along the road another 50 m as a
depressed wetlahd fed by a natural spring and rainwater run-
off. It is only moderately affected by the tides. It has been
reported that at one time the entire wetland was probably a
small bay open to the harbor. However, because of extensive
filling from wartime activities and development over the years,
the outlet has been reduced to a narrow streambed. One
.estimation puts the mouth of this stream approximately 600 m
from the harbor. Most likely, the stfearn- drained a large
lowland area presently covered by fill and supporting buildings
in the vicinity of Puntan Flores.
Only one species of mangrove plant exists in this -limited
area, Brugiera gXmnorrhiza. This species extends from the
mouth of -the estuary along both sides fairly equally to the
bridge. A few mangrove trees can be seen on the opposite side
of the road, but they dissipate rapidly.

c. Rare, Threatened and Endangered Species
The small area of the mangrove Brugiera gymnorrhiza near-
Delta Dock should be considered rare and given protection from
pollution, filling or dredging activities and other environ-
mentally detrimental actions. This site, the shoreline south of
the Puerto Rico Dump and a small area adjazen-t-ta the AM -
Memorial Park east of Beach Road are the only mangrove areas
in all of Saipan.
The mangrove area at lower base supports a population of
the endangered Nightengale Reed Warbler (Acrocephalus

11-9

Tanapag Harbor Planning Area

luscinia) in addition to the colorful Bridled White-eye (Zostero-ps
conspicillata). Although relatively common on Saipan, the
White-eye has virtually disappeared from the forests of Guam
where it was once quite common. Although not observed, it is
possible that the endangered Gallinule ( 'Gallinula chloropus), a
rather secretive bird that lives in swamps and wetlands seeking
cover from ferns and other dense vegetation, might also occur
in this area.

B. Man-made Resources and Human Uses

1. Land Uses

a. Existing Development and Public Facilities
This is Saipan's industrial area and, as such, the Tanapag
Harbor Planning Area includes the island's solid waste dump,
port and harbor, energy generating. facilities, warehouses, and
public works operations. Much of the Area remains un-
developed at this time.
Puerto Rico Dump, Saipan's only authorized disposal site for
solid wastes, is a well-chronicled public health nuisance and
eyesore. It has been a dump since post WWII and continues in
operation primarily because sufficient funds for improvements
have not been allocated and because no acceptable, alternative
site has been designated. Approximately 8,000 cubic yards of
waste are dumped at the Puerto Rico Dump each month.
The CNMI Government is now reviewing ten alternative sites
which have been identified as potential sanitary landfill sites for
Saipan. The government plans to select one site, begin a
sanitary landfill operation there, and then permanently close the
Puerto Rico Dump site and convert it into a public recreation
area.

b. Public Land Ownership and Access
Most of this area is publically owned, with some area leased
to private enterprises. It also includes the somewhat remote,
but attractive, Unai Tanapag. The Lagoon and harbor are
accessible throughout the length of this Planning Area.

c. Recreation Sites
.The following park and recreation facilities now exist within
Planning Area II.

Table II-1
RECREATION SITE AT TANAPAG HARBOR PLANNING AREA

Park or Recreation Existing
Area Facilities

DPW Beach Access Road, Coral,
40 0 If

II-10

Tanapag Harbor Planning Area

d. Historic Sites
Two Javanese landing, craft are located unde-_-vater wit-1,4n
this Planning Area. Both craft, a 56-foot model and a 46-foot
model, are close together in approximately 25 feet of water and
are regularly visited by the glassbottom. boat tours. These two
properties may be historically significant due to the low number
produced and the fact that few exist today.

e. Beach Erosion and Stormwave Redistribution
No beach erosion or discernible beach Te-pletion occurs in
this Planning Area.

f. Stormwater Drainaae
Cross Island Road in the village of Tanapag -does not have
adequately -sized drainage culverts at road crossings. This
results in stormwater flooding problems along an area of ap-
proximately 3000 linear feet north of the Public Works complex.
Stor=water runoff from this 77 acre watershed exceeds the
capacity of the existing pipe culverts, which consist of one 12
inch and two 18 inch diameter concrete pipes. Only one of the
18 inch -culverts is currently functional. The depth ol the
water over the road rises as much as two feet during intense
storms. This flooding is characterized by strong i@@locities and
heavy sediment and debris loadings.
Stormwater runoff also flows from a - 1-00-- acre- watershed
into the Lower Base Industrial Complex. The area is charac-
terized by flat terrain, underlain by sandy soils of high per-
meability. Runoff from upland tributary areas pond on the
flatlands and cause severe flooding. These flood waters pri-
marily drain to the Saipan Lagoon via the Sadog Tase drainage
canal. This canal winds through Lower Base and discharges to
the Lagoon at two points. Tidal estuaries and mangrove veg-
etation have developed at the interfaces between the drainage
canal outlets and the Lagoon. Inland portions of the canal are
heavily overgrown and do not function effectively--- in- - disposing
of stormwater. These flooding' problems have been further
aggravated by improper grading which has resulted in depres-
sions; and tend to pond water rapidly.

2. Energy Resources

a. Existing Facilities
Existing energy facilities in this planning area are located
within the Tanapag Harbor and lower base areas. These in-
clude the power plant, back-up generators, pipelines associated
with the power plant and Mobil Oil, Mobil Oir-s-fdofa@e -t_aHks,'
Department of Public Works storage area, s ip-unkering--p pd@@-
lines at Charlie Dock and the marine terminal at Baker Dock.
Refer to Figure 11-5 for locations of these facilities-.

Tanapag Harbor Planning Area

3. Economic Resources

a. Subsistence Fishingand Gathering
Some subsistence fishing occurs within this planning area,
especially throw-net (Talaya) fishing along Unai Tanapag and
hook and line fishing off the seaplane ramps and various docks
and piers in the port area. Launching and harboring of small
boats used for various types of fishing in other locations of the
Lagoon and open ocean occurs in the port area as well. Some
subsistence fishing does occur in the deeper waters of the
harbor and basin but generally less than that which occurs
along the shoreline and in the 'richer patch reefs and barrier
reef of the lagoon. This is due primarily to generally poor
40
coral development, turbid water and low species diversity.

b. Commercial and Sport Fishing and Facilities
T March 1981 report by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
recommends two alternative plans for Tanapag Harbor in the
vicinity of the old seaplane ramps. This would satisf-
.f the
requirements of a light-draft harbor created around small-scale
commercial and subsistence fishing and recreational boats by
providing capacity for about 50 boats up to 60 feet in length.
Figure 11-4 presents a possible berthing,'Plan for Tanapag
Small Boat Harbor. Design and construction funds are now
pending an appropriation by the Commonwealth for the local
share of the cost. General navigation features would include:
An entrance channel 240 feet long, 150 feet wide and 14
feet deep.
A turning basin 250 feet by 150 feet and 12 feet
deep.
A main access channel 175 feet long and 12 feet deep.
A 1,520 foot long main breakwater and 690 foot long
stub breakwater.

c. Port and Shipping
Figure 11-5 depicts the shoreline of the Tanapag Harbor
Planning Area and its coastal facilities. The following is a
description of these facilities starting from the north.
Seaplane Ramps - These concrete seaplane ramps are
the northernmost port facilities. This is the site of the
power plant and has been designated as the site for a
new Tanapag Small Boat Harbor.
Range Light Bay - This small bay, about 1-2 feet deep
lies between the seaplane ramps to the north and Echo
Dock to the south. The lower range light for the
harbor entrance is found on shore at this point. The
Bay's sediments are coral rubble and sand.
Echo Pier - This small peninsula is no longer used as a
dock, but wood pilings and a concrete seawall still
remain. The pier is often used by fishing boats and
other small boats. Depth of water is relatively shallow,
averaging 9 to 10 feet. Much of the surrounding land
mass is littered with abandoned boats and other scrap.

11-12

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11-13

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11-14

Tanapag Harbor Planning Area

Echo Bay - This 6 acre bay lies between Echo Dock to
the north and Deita Dock to the south. At the
southern end of the Bay an abandoned concrete pipe
lies between the shore and the edge of the dredged
area. A small stream with associated mangrove com-
munity empties into the southern end of this Bay.
Delta Dock - This is a small dock, just north ol Charlie
Dock.
Charlie Dock - This is a japanese constructed dock that
was upgraded by the military serving as the only
commercial port docking facility capable of handling
container and breakbulk cargo. How-ever, the facilitv
has received very little maintenance over the years.
While major damage has been repaired, minor damage
has gone unattended and eventually resulted in serious
deterioration.
Inspection of the dock in 1972 indicated that the
dock face is a masonry wall. of 4lx4'x5' concrete blocks,
with a coral-fill core. The dock elevation is 6 feet
above the mean lower water mark. The dock has 530.
feet of berthing space along the north side, with ex-
isting depths reported to be approximately 26 feet below
MLLW. Berthing space of 180 feet and 400 feet are
available along the west and east sides, respectively,
with depths of ZO feet reported on the west side and 10
to 20 feet an -the east side. The south side of the pier
serves as a small boat quay, with water depths of 6 to
8 feet.
Freighters utilizing Charlie Dock generally have
their own boom system for loading and unloading cargo,
both containerized and break bulk. Some of the large
cargo vessels also have a stern ramp for roll-on and
roll-off cargo, such as automobiles and cargo con-
tainers. The Saipan Stevedoring Company has a. Z9. ton
and a 27 ton forklift which handles the 40 foot., 25
gross ton containers. The stevedores also have two 50
ton mobile cranes for loading and unloading. Dockside
storage space consists of a 12,000 square foot steel
warehouse used for break bulk storage and several
acres of adjacent, unpaved container storage-zpace-.-,k-
second building is for Port operations and maintenance
as well as the Marine Resources Division @@_ he-
Department of Natural Resources. Approximafely 12
acres of land are associated with Charlie Dock.
Charlie Dock is presently in very deteriorated
condition. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is-now
designing repairs and improvements to this are -a -a's -part
of its "Saipan Deep Draft Harbor Improvementil -project.
The plans are scheduled for completion by *April 1986.
The proposed improvements are further described at the
conclusion of this section.

11-15

Tanapag Harbor Planning Area

Charlie Bay This semi-enclosed Bay occupies about 6
acres between Charlie,and Bak-er Docks and is abouz 3)
- 10 feet deep. Approximately one-half of the Bay is
sheltered from wave action by Charlie Dock. The
unprotected (southwestern) half receives relatively
heavy turbulence due to lagoon waves and the reflection
of waves from the northwestern side of Baker Dock.
The shoreline is now littered with the remains of old
bar-es.
B aker Pier - This Pier, originally constructed by the
Japanese, was reconstructed many years ago. The pier
consists of coral fill bounded primarily by iron pilings.
The south side has a vertical wall and is useable by the
Commonwealth. A sunken barge lies off the northern,
seaward. end, preventing its use as a dock. A
decaying woodpiling dolphin is also situated at the end
of the dock.
The northeastern side of the dock is exposed to
direct wave action. The southwestern side of the dock
face is -made of iron pilings, except for a short section
nearshore which is faced with cut limestone. The
pilings drop vertically to a narrow bench of coral
rubble lying about 1 foot below MLLW. Approximately 4
6 feet away from the dock, the bottom has been
recently dredged to a depth of 20 to 30 feet, creating a
steep coral rubble slope.
The land behind Baker Pier is leased to Mobil Oil
Company for fuel storage.
Baker Bay - This Bay of 4.2 acres lies between Baker
Dock and Able Dock. The bottom has been dredged
adjacent to the two docks and consists primarily of fine
sand and silt with occasional rocks and metal debris.
The sunken remains of a converted minesweeper, the
"Four Winds," lies at the outer edge of Baker Bay,
near Baker Dock.
Able Dock - This dock was built by the Japanese as
part of their railway system. Previously it had a
concrete facing which descended vertically to the coral
rubble bottom. Although it is totally unuseable now, it
was reconstructed in 1944 and enlarged with 2000 feet of
steel piling. Most -of the northwest dock has eroded
away. The area has many concrete slabs strewn about
.in various positions and a sloping terrace of boulders,
metal debris. and coral rubble. The terrace ends in a
steep, dredged face. ' I
Dump Bay - This small bay is south of the iron pilings.
The shore is also part of the Puerto Rico Dump.
Unai Sadog Tase - This is a large shallow bay of about
50 acres and 3 to 6 feet deep.

As a result of in-depth study by the CNMI and the U. S.
Army Corps of Engineers extensive improvements have been

Tanapag Harbor Planning Area

Xemmmended for Tanapaq @!@aipam) It was fbund ,_-I-zt
the existing harbor facilities are inadequate to serve both the
present day needs of Saipan's waterborne commerce as well as
the prcjected growth in both cargo inshipments and container
vessel. size. The fiollowing harbor improvements were deter-
n-Lined necessary in order to meet Saipan's present and future
needs.
Widen ahd deepen the entrance channel and turning
basin.
Construct a new wharf and berth at least 500 feet long
in order to accommodate existing vessels during rehabil-
itation of Charlie Dock.
Rehabilitate Charlie Dock, including new sheet pile
bulkheads and a higher deck elevation.
Construct a warehouse and container yard which are-.
adequate to handle existing cargo requirements.
Construct a new 800 foot dock to accommodate large
container vessels.
in addition, the following improvements were recommended to be
accomplished at a later date.
Additional warehouse and container yard area, plus
improved cargo handling equipment such as a container
crane.
Construction of a passenger terminal and con-sclidated.
administration building.

d. Tourism Industry
There are no tourisim facilities in the Tanapag Harbor
Planning Area, with the exception of wharves used for em-
barking and disembarking passengers for occasional passenger
3iners; and for daily commercial Lagoon cruises and sails such as
the 80' LOA catamaran,, "Star of Saipan" which sails between
Saipan and Tinian and within Saipan's Lagoon.

31-17

CHAPTER III MANAGAHA ISLAND PLANNING AREA

Planning Area 3 encompasses Managaha Island, the reefs and patch
reefs surrounding the island, Lagoon waters southerly to the main channel to
Tanapag Harbor and includes a section of the barrier reef from the channel
mouth north to Area 1. This area contains some of the most diverse and
richest reefs and fish fauna found in the Saipan Lagoon. Several historic
properties including three aircraft are located in Area 3. Because of its
offshore position within the lagoon, this Area will be discussed in terms of
the lagoon (including patch reefs), reef flat (including the coral area west
of Managaha Island) and reef margin and slope of the barrier reef.

A. Natural Resources

1. Living Marine Resources

a. Lagoon and Patch Reefs
The lagoon area around Managaha Island is predominantly a
sand and silt bottom with occasional coral/algal rubble areas
interspersed with varying sized patch reefs. These path reefs
become more sparse and contain less live coral as the Lagoon
deepens into the channel and Tanapag Harbor to the south and
east of Managaha Island. The richest and most diverse patch
reefs are those surrounding the island, including the patch reef
situated approximately 600. meters south-southeast of the island
in the far southeastern corner of Area 3. For purposes of this
report, the reefs west, of Managaha to the barrier reef are
included in the reef flat zone since they are close to the bar-
rier reef, in shallow water and are truly an extension of the
reef flat.
The Lagoon patch reefs are most prolific in areas of shallow
water from 2 - 6 m deep and some reach or nearly reach the
surface including the patch reef south-southeast of Managaha
which is awash at low tide. Corals common to the lagoon patch
reefs include Acropora palifera, A. nasuta, Millepora
platyphylla, Porites lutea, P. rus, P. (S.) iwayamaensis,
Montipora ehrenbergii, M. faveolata, M. verrilli, Stylophora
mordax, Helipora coerulea, Pocillopora eydouxi, P. setchelli,
P. damicornis, Sinularia sp. (soft coral), Lobophyllia
corymbosat Faviallida, Goniastrea retiformis, Leptastrea
purpurea, Psammocra nierstraszi, P. digitata and Fungia
fugites.
Coral cover on the patch reefs ranges from approximately
10 - 30% with the shallower reefs usually exhibiting higher
percent cover. Many of the deeper reefs contain little live
coral possibly due to previous Acanthaster damage or other
limiting environmental factors such as red light penetration
from murky, water or siltation.
Fishes observed in the Lagoon and around the patch reefs
include surgeonfish (Acanthurus triostegus, A. mata,
Ctenochaetus striatus and Naso literatus), several species of
parrotfish (Scaridae), rabbitfish (Siganus spinus), goatfish

III-1

Managaha Island Planning Area

(Parupeneus barberinus), several species of butterflyfish
(Chaetodontdae) and several unidentified Juvenile fishes.
Amesbury, et. al. (1979), describes this habitat as having high
species diversity with milkfish (Chanos chanos), large groupers
(Epinephelus merra), wrasses (Labridae), surgeonfish and
parrotfish being abundant.
The crown-of-thorns starfish, Acanthaster planci, was more
commonly seen among the patch reefs in Area 3 than in the rest
of the northern lagoon and they were quite numerous in other
areas to the south and southwest of Managaha Island. Very
few individuals were observed in the rich reef flat/patch reef
zone directly west of Managaha at the time of this survey.
Other conspicuous animals observed were the starfish
Linckia laevigata. and Culcita novaeguineae, the sea cucumbers
Holothuria. atra, H . edulis, Bohadschia argus, Stichoous
chloronotus and Thelenota ananas, the sea urchins Echinothrix
diadema and Echinometra mathaei and a few unidentified species
of sponges and anenomes.

b. Reef Flat
The reef flat area, including a series of discontinuous
shallow water patch reefs due west of Managaha Island repre-
sent a rich and diverse area of Saipan Lagoon. These reefs
are now heavily utilized by tourists and residents for
snorkeling, diving, spearfishing and shell collecting. At the
time of this survey, only , small numbers of Acanthaster were
observed in the reef flat zone of Area 3. The near areas
and the deeper patch reefs south and southwest of Managaha
did have rather high concentrations of the starfish and
considerable damage had been done to the corals. In some
areas, up to 40 - 50% of the live coral on isolated mounds and
patch reefs had been destroyed.
Goreau, et. al. (1969), during a study of the ecology of
Saipan's reefs in relation to Acanthaster predation, reported
that prevented from causing extensive damage through periodic
monitoring coupled with a limited, site specific removal program.
Common corals observed in the reef flat zone of Area 3.
include Acropora smithi, A. palifera, A. hebes, A. aspera, A.
tenuis, Poritrs luiea, P. reticulosa, P. (S.) iwayame=aensis, P.
cylindrica, P. australiensis, P. rus, Pocillopora damicornsis, P.
danae, P. setchelli, Acanthastrea echinata, Leptastrea bottae,
L. purpurea, Echinopora lamellosa, Favia favus, F. pallida, F.
matthaii, Favites sp., Fungia fungites F. scutaria, Galaxia
hexagonalis, Goniastrea retiformis, Heliopora coerulea,
Lop=bophyllia costata, Montipora ehrenbergii, M. foveolata,
Pavona divaricata, P. venosa, P. varians, Platygyra daedalea,
P. pini, Psammocora nierstraszi, P. digitata, Sarcophyton sp.
(soft coral), Seriatopora sp., S. aculeata, Stylocoeniella armata
and Goniopora sp.
Coral cover varies greatly, ranging from 40 - 60% live coral
on the patch reefs west of Managaha Island and 25 - 50% on the
reef flat. Coral cover decreases along the reef flat as it

III-2

Managha Island Planning Area

deepens and slopes into the channel entrance in the extreme
southwest section or Area 3.
Fish fauna is diverse here with small to medium-sized food
fishes and many species of colorful reef fishes visitors like to
view including butterflyfishes (Chaetodontidae) , damselfish
(Pomacentridae), moorish idols (Zanclus cornutus), angelfish
(Pamocanthidae), wrasses (Labridae), trumpetfish
(Aulostomidae) and a few others. Other fishes observed in-
clude parrotfish (Scarus psittacus, S. gobbus, S. sordidus and
the hump-headed parrotfish Bolbimetapon muricatus), guile
(Kyphosus cinerascens), goatfish (Parupeneus barberinus, P.
trifasciatus and Mulloidichtys flavolineatus), surgeonfish
(Acanthrus lineatus, A. mata, A. triostegus, Ctenochaetus
striatus and Naso literatus) and snappers (Lutjanus sp.).
Additionally, a blacktip reef shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus)
and a green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) were served during
the present study.
Amesbury, et. al. (1979), reported high abundance and
diversity for surgeonfishes, large wrasses, goatfish, juvenile
parrotfish, rabbitfish and blue Chromis. A more recent survey
of the reef area west of Managaga Island compiled a checklist of
107 species of fish (PBEC, 1985). The checklist is shown in
Table III-1.

c. Reef Margin and Slope
The reef margin and slope for Area 3 begins at the north
boundary of the channel mouth and extends along the barrier
reef to the northeast of Managaha Island. Species diversity
and coral cover axe good and there are moderate numbers of
food fishes present. Coral cover, species diversity and fish
fauna generally increase as one moves north along the barrier
reef, away from the influence of the harbor and channel, into
the more pristine and less accessible portions of the reef. It
was also noted that the numbers of Acanthaster decreased
dramatically from the southern portion of Area 3, and this
trend continued north into Area 1.
Corals observed were very similar to Area 1 with dominant
species including Stylophora mordax, Pocillopora eydouxi,
Acropora palifera, A. valida, A. diversa, A. uelichi, A.
surculosa palifera, A. valida, A. diversa, A. quelichi, A.
platyphylla, M. dichotoma, Pavona duerdeni, P. clavus.
Leptoria phrygia, Platygyra daedalea, Favia sp. and the soft
corals Sinularia sp. and Sarcophyton sp. For additional species
common in this area refer to the section describing Area 1,
Reef Margin and Slope.
Percent of coral cover varied in the southern portion of
Area 2 from 10 - 25%. Acanthaster were abundant in isolated
spots with 10 or more visible at one time. Further north, coral
cover varied from 10 - 50%, with higher coverage in areas
where surge channels (spur and groove system) are better
developed. Isolated sections of the reef showed signs of recent
coral mortality from Acanthaster and in a few spots as much as

III-3

Table III-1. Checklist of fish species observed in the vicinity of Managaha Island.

Carcharhinidae (Sharks) Lethrinidae (Emperors) Pomacanthic
Triaenodon obesus Gnathodentex aureo- Centropyg
lineatus Pomacanth
Muraenidae (Moray Eels) LetEr-inus 'harak
Lycodontis meleagris L. ramak- Pomacentrid
Uethrinu sp. Abudefduf
Synodontidae (Lizardfish)
Saurida gracilis Neniipteridae (Breams) Ghromis at
Scolopsis cancellatus Z. -caerule
Holocentridae (Squirrelfish) -C. m.@Uar
Adioryx diadema Mullidae (Goatfish) 'ffasZ`yllus
Flammeo sammara Mulloidichthys flavo- 14 e-c tf @j!j
Flammeo opercularis lineatus P. johnsto
Myril2ristis murdjan M. vanicolensis P. lachryn
Farupeneus Pomocentr
Aulostomidae (Trumpetfish) barberinus P. vaiuli
Aulostomus chinensis P. pleurostigma Stegastes
P. trifasciatus . fasciola
Fistulariidae (Coronetfish) S. nigrica
Fistularia commersonii Cirrhitidae Olawkfish)
Paracirrhites arcatus Labridae OA
Syngnathidae (Pipefish) P. forster! Anampes t
Corythoichthys sp. T,"fieflinus
Chaetodontldae (Butterflyfish) C. oxyc
Apogonidae (Cardinalfish) Chaetodon auriga C. t-rilobat
Apogon novemfasciatus C. ben ti JC h elh -ol n e
A gn sp. citrinell is C. gaimarc
io
-Meeo o ipterus Epibulus i
quinguelineatus lunula Gom2hosus
ornatissfinus lialichoere.,
Serranidae (Groupers) C , punctatofasciatus H. hortu a
Epinephelus merra * reticulatus TT. margari
lis SP . trif asciatus' TT. margina
CephalopFiE
U. Tuiptensis TL trimacu
Lutianidae (Snappers) unimacul tus Uabroides
Lut .anus fulvus Tfeniocfius ch-rysostomus 3
L. ra Meg apr@-t-o&o-ntri fa-s- ensis
cialis

Ta@le III-1 continue.

Thalassoma fuscum Zanclidae (Moorish Idols)
T.' haFd-wicke Zanclus cornutus
T. Tu-tescens
T. quinquevittata. Siganidae (Rabbitfish)
Xyrichtys taeniourus Siganus 2ygenteus
S. ]?unctatus
Scaridae (Parrotfish) S. spinus
Calotomus spinidens
Scarus rhlorodon Blenniidae (Blennies)
�. Shobban Salarias fasciatus
S. psittacus
juvenile scarids Gobidae (Gobles)
Acanthuridae (Surgeonfish) Valenciennea 211!EtLa
Acanthurus glaucopareius Balistidae (Triggerfish)
A. lineatus Rhinecanthus aculeat us
-ma t a
A@ nigricans Monacanthidae (Filefish)
A. nigrofuscus Cantherines ardalis
K. olivaceous Oxymonacanit
A. triostegus
Ctenochaetus striatus Tetraodontidae (Puffers)
Naso brevirostris. Arothron n1gropunctatus
T
N. iteratus Canthigaster solandri
N. unicornis
Yebrasoma flavescens
Z. veliTe-rum

Total Number Families 27
Total'@Number Pptqfes

Managaha Island Planning Area

50 - 75% of the coral was dead. This generally improved north-
ward along the ba=-er reef where individual starfish or small
groups of 3 - 5 individuals were infrequently observed.
Fish fauna for this zone are nearly identical to Area 1, and
Amesbury, et. al. (1979), classifies the reef margin and slope
as one habitat type for its entire length north of Tana-pag
channel. Abundant food fishes include surgeonfish, parrot:Eisa,
groupers, goatfish, squirrelfish, . sweetlips, breams, snappers
and jacks. Refer to the previous discussion ol the Reef Margin
and Slope zone of Area 1 for more information on the fishes.

2. Physical Marine Resources

a. Currents
Although currents have not been quantitatively measured
near Man:agaha Island, field observations and aerial photographs
indicate the normal flow of water across the Lagoon from the
northeast to the southwest splits and bends around the island.
This results in variable but somewhat strong currents along the
northwest and southeast shores of Managaha. - The current is
particularly evident in the deeper (6 - 8 m) sand channel
between the island and the barrier reef. This water flow
continues past Managaha Island and along the inside of the
barrier reef until" it exits the Lagoon at the mouth of the
harbor entrance.

b. Water Quali@y
Water quality is generally very high in the waters sur-
rounding Managaha Island. The Division of Environmental
Quality (DEQ) has numerous sampling stations around the
island, including 25 along shore and another 12 situated ap-
proximately 150 ft. from the shoreline. Presently, however,
the DEQ is collecting samples from 11 stations around the
island. Data for these sampling stations are available at the
DEQ office. Monitoring station sites and data regarding
occurrence and violations of fecal coliform standards are
depicted on Figure I-1 of this Volume. Analysis of recent data
(October 1984 - March 1985) for fecal coliform shows extremely
low readings (less than 10/100 ml) except for one value of
201/100 ml at Station 22 (January 1, 1985).

3. On-shore Resources

a. Rare, Threate ned and Endangered Species
Some of the plants used by the Carolinian community for
medicinal purposes would be considered rare although none are
officially listed as threatened or endangered. Refer to Section
A.3.b. for a discussion of the important vegetation on Managaha
Island.
Historically the beaches on Managaha Island which almost
entirely encircle the island were used by the green sea turtle
for nesting. The recent development of the island for a tourist

111-6

Managaha Island Planning Area

destination coupled with the wide variety of beach and water
reiated activities which occur every day of the year have
resulted in the turtles no longer using the island for nesting.
Although it is likely that no turtles have laid their eggs here
for many years, personnel on Managaha Island should be made
aware that the possibility e@dsts and every effort should be
made to protect any nests that might be found.
None of the birds observed on Managaha Island are con-
sidered rare, threatened or endangered species. According to
the Division of Fish and Wildlife a species of Shearwater
(Puffinus sp.) used to nest on the island. If this species is
again observed it would be considered rare and the.. nesting
areas should be protected'from disturbance.

b. Terrestrial Vegetation
The vegetation on Managaha Island is a unique mix of
common plants and trees found elsewhere on Saipan and several
species of rare or unique plants that have been planted and
utilized for medicinal purposes. The Carolinian community has
for many years utilized Managaha Island as a source for many
medicinal. plants and herbs. A survey conducted for the CRM
Office entitled "Carolinian Medicinal Plants on Managaha Islandu
notes the first documented habitation of the island occurred
when Chief Aghurubw (sic) and a group of Yapese immigrants
landed there in 1815 (Kastor, Hatnat and V. Tebit, 1981). '_ The
1981 survey compiled a listing of 28 medicinal plants along with
descriptions, uses and preparations for use.
During 1985, a survey on Managaha Island listed a total of
39 species of plants and trees (PBEC, 1985). A listing of this
-@egietation is found in Table 111-2.

B. Man-made Resources and Human Uses

1. Land Uses

a. ExisLing_ Development and Public Facilities
The e.7isting development and public Fa-cilities at Managaha
Island are described in subsection 2d, Tourism Industry.

b. Public Land Ownership and Access
ManagMa Island is i@ommonwealtT owned land an-d'-pan-a-gged
by the Marianas Public Land Corporation. Since 198q,,@p@riivate
tour company, PD1, has had a five-year lease from -MPLC to
develop tourist related facilities on the island and to-maintain
the island. In 1988 the permit will be reviewed by- MPLC to
assess the equitability of the permit arrangements.

c. Recreation Sites
The entire Managaha Island is a public recreation site. It
is heavily used by tourists and CNMI residents for a variety of
water and beach sports.

111-7

Managaha Island Planning Area

Table 111-2. Checklist of Terrestrial Flora identified alon- the Nature T rai-I
and elsewhere on Managaha Island. Plant T`ype: (T) Tree,
(Sh) Shrub (S) Sedge, (B) Bush, (F) Fern, (V) Vitie, (W)
Weed, ( ,G) Grass, (H) Herb, (M) Medicinal Plant. (Source:
Managaha Island Marine Park Management Plan, PBEC Inc.,
1985).

Scientific Name Common Name Chamorro Name Plant Typ; -Trail

Acrostichum aureum Fern Langayao (F) x
Annona mumicata Soursop Laguanaha (T) x
Artocarpus sp. Breadfruit Lemai (T)
Bidens ilosa Beggar's-Tick (W) x
Bougainvillea sp. Bougainvillea Putitainobo (Sh)

Carica papaya Papaya Papaya (T) x
Ca:@;cuta (-cami3estris)sp. Parasitic Vine Dodder (V) x
Ua-ssvtha !Mormis Mayages (V) (M)
Casuarina ecuisetifolia Ironwood Gago (T) (M) x
Cocos nucifera Coconut Niyog (T)- X,

Colubrina asiatica, Gasoso (Sh) (M) x
Corda subcordata Niyoron (T) (M)
Cyperus k7llingia Cyperus Chaguan Lemae (S) (M)
Ficus prolixa Banyan Nunu (T) (M) x
Guettarda speciosa Panao (T) (M)

Hernandia nymphaeifolia Nonak (T) (M) x
Hibiscus dUaceus Hibiscus Pago (B) (M) x
Hvmenocalh':s -littoralis Spiderlilly Lirio (H) (M) x
I13omoea pes-caprae Beach Morning- Alalag-Tasi (V) (M) x
Glory
Jatro-oha integerrima Rose-flowered Tuba-Tuba (Sh)
Leucaena insularum. var. Tangan-tangan (T) x
Suamense

Leucaena leucocephala Tangan-tangan (T) x
Messerschmidia 91,11entia Hunig (T) (M)
Morinda, t-itrninl Indian Mulberry Lada, (Sh) (M)
Neisosj2erma opl2ositifolia Fagot (T) (M)
Pandanus fragraus Pandanus Kafu (T) (M)

Passiflora foetida ver. Love-in-a-mist Kinahulot Atdao (V) (M) x
hisDida
Pim-'phis acidula Nigas (Sh) (M)
Pipturus argenteus Amahatyan (T) (M)
Pitheceilobium duice Kamachile (T) (M)
Plumeria obtusa Plumeria Frangipani (T) x

Managaha Island Planning Area

111-2 a--mtlnued.

Scientific,Rame Common Name CHamorro Name Plant Type-----T-r-a-iT

Poinsettia 2lucherriwa Poinsettia (Sh)
ge-suvium portulacastrum Seaside purs- Chara (H) (M)
lane

Scaevola, taccada, Nanaso (Sh) (M)
Sopriora iomentosa (Sh) (M)
Stac@ heta indica False Verbena (W)

Terminalia catEpa Tropical
Almond Talisai (T) (M) x
Thespesia populnea Banalo (T) (M)
Wedelia biflora Beach Sunflower (V) (M) x

Total Species: 39

111-9

Managaha. Island Planning Area

d. Historic Sites
'R agaha. Island contains a grave site which is the burial
place for a Carclinean Chief. There are also two Japanese
coastal defense guns and a badly deteriorated landing craft and
barge on the beach and partially submerged underwater.
There* are several iistorically significant underwater
properties located within this Planning Area, many of which are
visited by divers and/or glassbotbom boat tours. The sub-
merged properties include the wing and other portions of what
is believed to be an American aircraft, possibly a PBY-SA
Catalina, located in 15 feet of water near the exposed patch
reef; an upsidedown but intact Japanese seaplane or "Jake"
(Aichi El3A1) in 20 feet of water south of Managaha Island; a
coral barge or temporary pier located in 10 feet of water off the
east end of the island; and the remains of a small fishing boat
and small Japanese airplane located in shallow water justinside
the barner reef near the channel entrance.

e. Beach Erosion and Stormwave Distribution
Beach erosion occurs along the southeastern shoreline for
approximately 1000 feet.

f. Stormwater Drainage
There are no stormwater drainage facilities in this Planning
Area.

2. Economic Resources

a. Subsistence Fishing and Gathering
A substantial. amount of subsistence fishing occurs within
the Managaha. Island Planning Area. Although boat access is
necessary several people have been observed walking the shore-
line of the island with a throw-net (Talaya). The near-shore
zone and especUaly the geld s of rich patch reefs to the west
and southwest of the island provide spearfishing, bottom fishing
and limited trolUng. Information gathered from interviews with
fishermen indicates the inner edge of the barrier reef opposite
Managaha Island is hea-%dly harvested by v:Magers from Garapan
and Tanapag. Traditionally, this reef area and Managaha.
Island have been used by Carclinian B.Shermen who sometimes
place gill nets in the area.

b. Commercial and Soort Fishing and Facilities
At this time no @cmlitjeq for commercial or sport fishing are
available at Managaha. island. The concrete pier can be used to
pick up and drop off passengers, or to stop for lunch or buy
refreshments. No fuel or other supplies are availahl on the
island.

c. Port and Sj2j2ping
The only shipping facility within this planning area is a
navigation beacon on the southern side of the island. The
beacon serves as a range mark for ships entering the Tanapag
Harbor channe-L

132-10

Managaha Island Planning Area

Managaha Island is synonymous with Saipan's tourism in-
dustry. It has become one of the most popular destinations for
tourists in Saipan and much of the Island is ]eased for com-
al tourist facility development.
The existing facilities on Managaha Island were recently
upgraded (1984) by a private tour company, PDI. Two large
pavilions connected in an L-shape were constructed opposite the
beach and swimming area. These pavilions have picnic tables
and benches and are used by tourists to eat lunch and to get
out of the sun. They are also available for residents to--use.
In the center of the pavilions is a bar area, office and
concession area. There are also restroom facilities and showers
in this complex. Another smaller pavilion is located opposite
the concrete pier. During 1984 this old Japanese pier was-
partially repaired and a solar panel powered light was installed
to identify the structure at night so it would not become a
hazard to navigation. There are plans to eventually increase
the size of the pier and to dredge the area on both sides of it,
to facilitate vessel movements and to allow for use by deeper
draft boats.
The swimming area for the Managaha Beach is now buoyed
off to increase swimmer safety and to keep boats out of the
area. Considerable effort has also been expended in land-
scaping the area and numerous trees and flowers have- been
planted.

311-11

CHAPTER IV - PUNTAN MUCHOT PLANNING AREA

Planning Area 4 encompasses the shoreline and lagoon from Unai Sadog
Tase south to the dock and boat channel in Garapan. A wide variety of
marine habitats are represented in Area 4 including the barrier reef, patch
reefs, seagrass. beds of Enhalus and "Halodule, sand and rubble substrate, a
rich and extensive thicket of AcroDora coral, dredged and filled areas, and
one of only two areas in Saipan that contain mangroves. Three of Saipan's
largest hotels are found in Area 4: Hyatt Regency (183 roams), Saipan
Beach (175 rooms) and Hafa Adai Beach Hotel (188 rooms). The Hafa Adai
Hotel just completed a 68 room expansion and plans to add another 114 rooms
starting in 1985. A boat launching site and channel through the outer reef
are also located at Garapan.

A. Natural Resources

1 . Living Marine Resources

a. Near-shore
Th- near-8hore zone of Area 4 is generally comprised of
fine sand and silt with occasional coal/algal rubble and a mix-
ture of seagrasses and algae as the dominant cover. The
northern portion of Area 4 contains the embayments south of
the dump including Unai Sadog Tase. This bay is lined with
the most extensive stand of mangrove found on Saipan
(Bruguiera gy .Mnorrhiza). The near-shore zone is comprised of
extensive Enhalus beds with 80 - 100% cover. Farther out in
the bay, the do-l"'Rinant cover is a mixture of Halodule uninervis
and Halophila minor along with Halimeda. 22untia some
Padina tenuis. Scattered corals, accounting for less than five
percent cover, include Pocillopora, damicornis, Porites lutea,
Acropora nasuta and A. a'spera.
The embayment to the east of Puntan Muchot (outer Smilin
Cove) is also characterized by Enhalus beds, but they are more
scattered and clumped and account lor approximately 20 - 40%
cover. Halodule is also very common followed by Halimeda
opuntia. and Padi@na tenuis. Scattered corals in the arei@include
FO!4ioTora damic rnis, Porites lutea and some Acropora aspera,
and account tar T --20T -Uve @a-ral cover. Directly off Puntan
Muchot the substrate is covered mostly by Halodule (50 - 75%),
Halophila. and Padina, with a few scattered small colonies of the
coral go-cillopora damicomis.
Ffshes observed in-Ch-e northern near-shore portion of Area
4 were predominately damselfishes (Pomacentridae), particularly
those species associated with small coral heads. Common spe-
cies were Chromis caerulea, Dascyllus aruanus and Pomacentrus
pavo. Important fo_o3_6s_hes found in the area include mullet
TM-ugilidae), rabbitfish (Siganus spinus), goatfish (Mullidae),
snappers (Lutjanidae) and the Lethrinid Lethrinus harak
(Amesbury, et. al., 1979).
West of Puntan Muchot seagrasses thin-out, and extensive
stretches of sand predominate with an occasional small coral
colony of Pocillopora or Porites. Further south in front of the

IV-1

Puntan Muchot Planning Area

Hyatt and Saipan Beach Hotels, sand and sand/rubble substrate
contain mixtures of Halodule, Dict-i-ota, Halimeda and Padina
with less frequent- clumps of Enhalus.
, Approximately 300 m soiTt-hoi the Saipan Beach Hotel, a
rather dense area of predominantly Halodule (80 - 90%) inter-
spersed with Halimeda, Dictyota, Padfn-;7, -Caulerpa racemosa and
C. sertularoides extenas south the Garapan
band -oiseagrass and algae averages 250 m in width. There
are a few corals (P. damicornis and P. lutea) scattered about,
the area. Fishes in this zone of heavy seagrass cover are
similar to those observed north of this site including the
rabbitfish Siganus spinus, the goatfish Parapeneus barberinus,
mullet (Mugilidae), silversides (Atherinidae)i -iii-d several un-
identified species of juvenile fishes. A small pipefish
(Syngnathidae) is very abundant among the seagrass and
rubble areas throughout the near-shore zone of Areas 4 - 7.

b. Lagoon
The Lagoon zone of Area 4 averages one to two meters deep
close to shore and two to four meters in the deeper moat por-
tions of the Lagoon. The floor is relatively flat and comprised
mostly of sand with scattered corallalgal rubble. The outer
portion is also sandy but with more coral/algal rubble and rocks
particularly at the border of the barrier reef where some areas
have irregular reef rock exposed at low tides.
Corals are absent to widely scattered along the inner
portion of the Lagoon, becoming scattered to patchy within the
middle portion and -more abundant in the oxiter Lagoon, par-
ticularly where it grades into the barrier reef. The two ex-
ceptions to this general pattern are the series of patch reefs
located to the west and northwest of Puntan Muchot. These
reefs are relatively diverse with good coral cover and are
actually a series of isolated patch reefs that are a result of the
barrier reef platform being interrupted by irregular channels of
various widths and depths.
Another area of abundant coral growth is a band of Acopora
formosa located in the outer Lagoon just inside the outer reef
flat west of Garapan village. These luxuriant Acropora beds
are nearly 1000 m long and represent an important resource
within the Lagoon.
Scattered corals found throughout the Lagoon zone include
PosDopora damicornis, P. dane, Porites lutea, Acropora aspera,
A. hebes, A. studeri, Fsammocora contigua, Pavona divaricata
and 7 -few Wthir -smaUer forms. Coral cover in the sand and
rubble areas of the Lagoon rarely exceeds five percent and
usually averages only one to two percent cover. The southern
portion of Area 4 from the Hafa Adai Hotel to the Garapan Dock
and channel is characterized bv more seagrass and algae and
fewer corals. The lagoon floor here is mostly a mixture of
Halodule and Padina tenuis, with some Halimeda opuntia, H.
macroloba, Dictyota sp., Caul2Ma racemosa and

IV-2

Puntan Muchot Planning Area

sertularoides. The percent cover of marine plants varies
widely, between 20 - 80 %.
Fishes observed in the Lagoon areas are similar to those
observed in the southern portion of Area I (Lagoon). Common
fishes are the damselfish (Pomacentridae), the emperor
Lethrinus harak, rabbitfish (Siganus spinus), triggerfish
(especially Rhinecanthus aculeatus) juvenile parrotfish
(Scaridae), mullet (Mugilidae), goatfish (Mullidae), wrasses
(Labridae), surgeonfish (Acanthuridae) and cardinalfish
(Apogonidae).
Conspicuous invertebrates observed in this habitat include
the sea cucumbers Holothuria atra, H. impatiens, H.
eucospilota and Bohadschia marmorata, the starfish Linckia
laevigata and the sea urchins Echinometra mathaei and
Echinothrix diadema.
Patch reefs in the northern northern portion of the Lagoon in Area 4
border the Tanapag Channel and are geologically part of the
barrier reef and reef flat. However, they are discussed here
as patch -reefs within the Lagoon because of their proximity to
the Lagoon.
Two wrecks, a small pontoon-barge used as a pier and a
large concrete ship (possibly used to carry water) are located
on the northern and northwestern portions of these patch
reefs. Surf often breaks along, these irregualar reefs pro-
viding recreation for surfers and windsurfers.
.The Lagoon floor is primarily sand and coral/algal rubble
between the patch reefs. Some water movement from surf and
swells (surge) or from tidal currents is almost always present
in this area and visibility is generally poor.
Corals observed along these patch reefs include Pocillopora
damicornis P. setchelli, P. elegans, Montipora ehrenbergii, M.
foveolata, M. elschneri, Millepora dichotoma, M. platyphylla,
Porites lutea, P. rus, P. convexa, P. cylindrica, Acropora
nasuta A aspera, A. surculosa, A. humilis, A. palifera, Favia
pallida, Heliopora coerulea, Psammocora contigua, P. nierstraszi
and Galaxia fascicularis. Coral cover varied from approximatley
10 - 50% and averaged 2O - 30%. Many of the patch reefs are
comprised of dead Acropora and other species that smaller
corals are overgrowing. Some Acanthaster were observed here
as were a moderate number of fresh (white feeding spots.
Fish fauna were moderately diverse among these patch
reefs, but most species were small (25 cm) in size. The most
abundant fishes were surgeonfishes (Acanthuridae) including
Acanthurus lineatus, A. mata, A. nigrofuscus, A. triostegus,
Ctenochaetus striatus, Naso literatus, N. brevirostris and N.
unicornis, the rabbitfish Siganus argenteus and S. spinus,
several species of wrasses (Labridae) and adult and juvenile
parrotfish including Scarus chlorodon, S. ghobban, S. sordidus
and many unidentified juveniles.
In the sand and rubble areas between these patch reefs are
various marine plants including Halodule uninervis, Dictyota
bartayrestii, Halimeda opuntia and H. macroloba. Less common

IV-3

Puntan Muchot Planning Area

were Haloohila minor, Caulerpa racemosa, C,. sertularoides and
floating masses 0i, the diamenrous biue--reen in se-
lected areas algae and seagrass comprised 10 - TO% of the
bottom cover and locally (but uncommon) Halodule and
Dictyota together accounted for as much as 75% cover. One
green turtle (Chelonia mvdas) was observed along the outer
seaward edge of these patch reefs.
The Acropora formosa coral beds that are just inside the
outer reef flat ofi U@rapan provide excellent habitat for fishes,,
especially damselfis@h (Pomacentridae), squirrelfish
(Holocentridae) and goatfish (Mullidae). During the field work
for this report spearfishermen were frequently observed
working these Acropora reefs. Smaller Acropora, thickets are
found on the edge of the old dredged -channel from Garapan
Dock and on the south side of the channel midway between
shore and the barrier reef. The numerous, smaller beds are
generally 90 - 100% live Acropora, while many of the larger
extensive patches were 80 - 1009. dead on the upper surface,
presumably due to exposure at low tides. Below this dead
layer and along the perimeter the Aacropora is 90 - - 100% live.
The Acropora thickets rise from depths of 2 - 4 m and nearly
reacl@_ the surface. The lattice framework provided by this
staghorn type coral provides numerous holes for a variety of
adult and juvenile fishes, crustaceans, echinoderms, algae and
numerous other forms. The Acropora, thickets provide hiding
places for sources of food, breeding areas and safe havens for
juvenile fishes. Large squirrelfish including Flammeo
operc laris, F. sammara, AAdioryx diadema and Myripristis
mur@jan were the most obvious fishes seen around these
Acropora beds. Amesbury, et. al. (1979), reported that
squirrelfish were recorded here at their highest density any-
where in the Lagoon. He also observed high densities of
goatfish (especially Mulloidichthys flavolineatus), snappers
(Lutjanus kasmira and L. tuivus), juvenile parrotfish and blue
Chromis.

c. Reef Flat
The reef flat zone of Area 4 is not a continuous, well
defined area of the barrier reef as it is in the northern
Lagoon. A true reef flat does not exist south of the Tanapag
Channel and west of Puntan Muchot. Here the reef is a series
of discontinuous patch reefs and the reef flat platform and
barrier reef are not distinct. Even the reef off Garapan is not
a typical barrier reef with a distinct inner reef flat and reef
margin and slope. ' The barrier reef system does become more
contiguous and well defined south of the Japanese lighthouse
(Areas 5 - 7).
The reef flat zone is highly dissected with sand, coral/algal
rubble and larger'boulders and mounds of dead coral, corals
and coralline algae. Species are very similar to those observed
on the patch reefs in Area 4 (see Lagoon, above). Dominant
corals include Porites lutea, Pocillopora damicornis, P. elegans,

IV-4

Puntan Muchot Planning Area

Psammocora nierstraszi, Millepora dichotoma, Montipora
e1schneri, M. ehrenbergii, M. faveolata, Porites convexa
Psammocora digitata, Favia stelligera, Oulophyllia crispa,
Acropora nasuta, A. surculosa and Pavona venosa.
Some of the reef flat rubble areas are overgrown with the
coralline algae Porolithon onkodes and Lithophyllum sp. Other
algae present in this zone are Lithothamnion asperulum, Padina
tenuis, Turbinaria ornata, Cholosodesmis sp., Sargassum
cristaefolium and Caulerpa racemosa.
Fishes observed along the reef flat were dominated by
surgeonfishs (Acanthuridae), primarily Acanthurus lineatus, A.
glauco]Rareius, A. achilles, A. triostegus and Naso literatus,
juvenile and adult parrotfish (Scaridae), groupers (Serranidae),
snappers (Lutjanidae), goatfish (Mullidae), wrasses (Labridae)
and rabbitfish (Siganidae).
d. Reef Margin and Slope
Much of the reef margin and slope in the southern portion
of Area 4 is dominated by coral mounds, large patches of sand,
sand channels and low. to moderate coverage and diversity of
corals. Coral cover averaged 5 - 10% within this zone, and
numerous dead corals were observed. During a 20-minute tow
approximately 50 - 60 Acanthaster and/or white feeding scars
were counted. In many areas blue-green algal forms pre-
dominate including Schizothrix mexicana and Microcoleus
lyngbyaceus. Other algae include Chlorodesmis sp,. Caulerpa
sp., and Turbinaria ornata. Visibility is generally reduced or
poor due to the outflow of sediment and organic material from
the north which exits the Lagoon at the channel and through-
cuts and other breaks in the barrier reef.
Corals which predominate along the margin and slope in-
clude Porites lutea, Pocillopora damicornis, P. eydouxi,
Acropora palifera, A. nasuta, A. irregularis, A. hebes,
Millepora platyphylla, Porites rus, Platygyra pini and Pavona
duerdeni.

2. Physical Marine Resources

a. Currents
The currents in Planning Area 4 have been previously
investigated for the Army Corps of Engineers to assist in
evaluating flood control needs for the area (M & E Pacific,
1980). Currents were evaluated near-shore, mid-lagoon and
outer lagoon at locations just south of the Hafa Adai Hotel -and
opposite the Saipan Beach Hotel (Figures IV-1 - IV-4).
Some of the findings of the above report are that water
circulation patterns are virtually independent of the tidal cycle,
and a continuous southwesterly component occurs in the Lagoon
in front of the Hyatt - Hafa Adai Hotel area. Except during
flood tide conditions when the water transport is parallel to
shore towards the south, a nearly continuous southwesterly
movement of water is typical of this portion of the Lagoon.

IV-5

TRUrc. NORTWA DEPTH OF DROGUE

SURFACE DROGUE
Q: 0 3 FEET DROGUE

-to
0
Ix S COAST

SUS&E
G -To

V3 F- A C

SMALL
INTER CONTINE TAL HAFA BOAT
HOTE7 ADAI R@IMP
ci
EXIST. 21'FT.'WIDE
DRAINAGE CHANNEL
CONTINENTAL
HOTEL

STATION "SHORE"

0956 -

@0
STATION "MIDDLE" (r
10

STATION OCEAN

@c
4?.
DROGUE
.2T T
COAS

110c
1.100

SCALE IN FEET

DEPTH OF DROGUE

SURFACE DROGUE
Is 0 3 FEET DROGUE
WALLACE k4W,(
0 10
M EST @C uj

G -to S

C-)
q SMALL
41
4j BOAT
tNTER-CONTINE TAL HAFA R@Mp
Q. HOT ADAI
ci EXIST. 2VFT. WIDE
7 DRAINAGE CHANNEL
CONTINENTAL
HOTEL

Ll 0,
STATION "SHORE"-%-
161

1648 1719
STATION "MIDDLE"-40'
1616 oa@
',..j %
115 ..............i
STATION "OCEAN"--@a@@4_!@4@ W-iii@

C
Fl(
O-AS-r

J
DROGUE Vf
LOCATI
1.100
F
i SCALE IN FEET.

DEPTH OF DROGUE
1 1TRUE

(D SURFACE DROOUE

3 FEET DROGUE

4cf
-TO L
*PL x
0
0-
COAST x

G To FE
0
c

SMALL
Cal' BOAT
INTER-CONTINE TAL HAFA RAMP
0 ADA[
HOTE

c
EXIST. 21'FT. WIDE
1241--(v DRAINAGE CHANNEL
CONTINENTAL
HOTEL 0
STATION "SHORE"]

244
STATION "MIDDLE" Ah
UL

STATION S?

Ylk

V, .........

FICLI
c
J DROGUE VEC
1.100 0"....... . I LOCATIO
100 EB
SCALE IN. FEET

DEPTH OF DROGUE

E) SURFACE OROQUE

3 FEET DROGUE

ACE
-TO %Ypl-

C
S w
0

0 G -fo s4supE

JBF C
SMALL
BOAT
INTER-CONTINE TAL HAFA RAMP
ADAI
HOTE
EXIST. 21'FT. WIDE
CONTINENTAL 7 DRAWAGE .CHANNEL
HOTEL
STATION "SHORE"--,

0927

STATION "MIDDLE

0 0944.

0910

STATION "OCEAN"----,.

FIG
DIROGUE VE
LOCATI
1.100 1100 Fl.
SCALE IN FEET,

Puntan Muchot Planning Area

Water is transported seaward through the openings in the
non-continuous reef structure typical of this area. Water near
the Garapan Dock flows towards the small boat channel from
both the north and south and exits at the opening in the
barrier reef.
Currents in Planning Area 4 were found to average from
3.0 cm/sec (0.06 kts.) to 20.3 cm/sec (0.40 kts.). Figure IV-5
depicts the general circulation pattern for the Garapan area.

b. Water Quality
Water quality in Planning Area 4 is variable and ranges
from quite poor in the bay west of he Puerto Rico dump to good
in the Lagoon south of Puntan Muchot. The Division of
Environmental Quality (DEQ) currently samples water from eight
stations within this area including the bay next to the dump,
Smiling Cove, Micro Beach, Hyatt and Saipan Beach Hotels,
Samoan Housing area, Hafa Adai Hotel and the Garapan Dock.
Water quality monitoring station sites and data regarding
occurrence and violations of fecal coliform standards are
depicted on Figure I-1 of this Volume. Analysis of recent data
from the DEQ (October 1984 - March 1985) showed only one
sampling station having fecal coliform values over 200/100 ml.
The Glass Bottom Boat Dock (Smiling Cove) had one reading for
fecal coliform, of 201/100 ml but the mean for the sampling
period was only 79/100 ml.
The small bays and near-shore waters east of Puntan
Muchot are generally quite turbid due to wind generated waves
stirring up the fine sand and silt in these shallow (0. 5 - 2 m
deep) waters. Additionally, leachate material and floating
debris blown or washed from the dump are carried to the
southwest where they affect water quality and the visual
aesthetics of the area.
South of Puntan Muchot three storms drains (south of the
Saipan Beach Hotel-, south of the Hafa Adai Hotel and in
Garapan) empty into the Lagoon. A very large drainage ditch
empties into the bay just east of Puntan Muchot. This canal
receives all the stormwater runoff from the Civic Center and
American Memorial Park areas. Complaints are often lodged
against storm drains which plug up with silt and sand and then
become stagnant and foul smelling. When the drainage ds
opened up the resultant outflow of this water causes localized
pollution and possible health hazards along the nearby hotel
beaches. Additionally, the coliform standard is frequently
exceeded in the Micro Beach area. These high levels of
coliform are likely caused by overflowing sewage lift stations.

3. On-shore Resources

a. Wetlands
There are two wetland areas within the Puntan Muchot
Planning Area. One lies between Beach Road and West Coast
Highway just north of the road that runs between the Hyatt

IV-10

t4c

cr I
IV Pce
k 10 -,yp.LL.
0
s Co kST

P,
G To su SUPE
W10A
C

SMALL
INTER-CONTINE TAL HAFA BOAT
HOTE ADAI RAMP
V APPROXIMATE
EXIST. 21'FT. WIDE OF DREDGED
DRAINAGE CHANNEL FOR SMALL
CONTINENTAL RAMP
HOTEL

FIGUR
c?44
GENERAL CIRC
1 100
GARAPAN DR
SCALE IN FEET.

Puntan Muchot Planning Area

and Navy Hill. It is likely that the entire area was once a
poorly drained marsh left as a catchment site. The wetland is
slowly filling in, a process which is helped along by its use as
an illegal dumping site.
This wetland site is approximately 8.4 acres in size. The
dominant vegetation consists of grasses such as Panicum
maximum, the fern Acrostichum aureum, Tangan-tangan
(LeucZe-na leucocephala), Pago (Hibiscus tiliaceus), Elephant
grass (Pennisetum purpureum) and Ironwood (Casuarina
equisetifolia @.T@he fern A. aureum is by far the most common
plant in open areas and provides impo-rtant nesting cover for
the Marianas Gallinule (Gallinula chloropus), an endangered
species that frequents this wetland.
The second wetland is a small ponding basin used for the
housing subdivision just west of West Coast Highway and south
of its junction with Navy Hill Road. It is directly across the
highway from the new Commonwealth Health Center. This site
was previously a wetland marsh before the housing area was
constructed (Moore, et. al., 1977). At that time the wetland
occupied approximately 12 acres. Today the ponding basin area
is only about 3.2 acres. The main vegetation includes grasses
such as Panicum maximum and Pennisetum purpureum and the
reed Phr;!g`m-ites ka_r]Wa__.

b. Mangroves
Xnother, small mangrove habitat on Saipan is found just
south of the Puerto Rico Dump along a short segment of coast-
line. The extent of the mangrove area is approximately 600 m
long by 10 m wide. Brugiera gymnorrhiza is the only mangrove
species in this area. This site if fed by freshwater along the
shoreline from a small wetland directly across Beach Road and
to the south 100 m. Data suggest that the area was likely a
poorly drained marsh at one time. The area is now filling in, a
process which is facilitated by the expanding dump site.

c. Rare, Threatened and Endangered Species
The wetland between Beach Road and West Coast Highway
(see Section a, above) provides habitat for two endangered
species of birds, the Marianas Gallinule (Gallinula chloropus)
and the Nightengale Reed Warbler (Acrocephalus luscinia7.
Significant numbers of the Reed Warblei-Thave been observed or
-heard in this wetland site.
The mangroves (Brugiera g7mnorrhiza) found along the
coastline south of t Puerto Rico Dump and, to a lesser
extent, in the wetland east of the American Memorial Park
should be protected. Although not officially listed as
threatened or endangered they should be considered rare as
they are found in very limited numbers in Planning Areas II
and IV. To ensure the viability of the Brugiera they should be
given protection from pollution, filling and dredging activities
and other environmentally detrimental actions.

IV-12

Puntan Much'ot Planning Area

L u: C t.1-a C 'h e: r, I L L i
Gzaer, Sea 1,
nested or@@e beaches along the shoreline of th(i-S-miling
Cove area, American Memorial. Park and Micro Beach. In recent
years, development and heavy use by local residents and
tourists has kept the turtles away. Development, particularly
hotel and resort complexes, is not compatible with nesting of
the turtles. Consideration for preserving some coastline/beach
areas should be given before all. suitable nesting sites on the
west coast of Saipan are developed or altered, precluding their
use by the turtles.

B. Man-made Resources and Human Uses

1. Land Uses

a. Existing Df,@ment and Public Facilities
Garapan, being Saipan's most urban community, represents
a cross section of single-family and mult:i.-fam3ly residences,
commercial and tourist commeraial businesses and public use
areas.
The major public facilities within this Planning Area include
the American Memorial Park, several Commonwealth beach parks,
the CNMI Museum,, Garapan Park, Saipan Fishing Center and
supporting infrastructure with appurtenances. Just south of
the Hafa Adai Hotel is a community service complex with the
Dispensary, Head Start, YMCA and the Carclinian Affairs office
(now under construction).
Recently completed improvement plans for the Saipan
Fishing Center include additional on-shore facilities, upgrading
the launching ramp, more trailer parking, fueling facilki s, and
a boat berthing area for approximately 15 boats, up to 20 feet
in length.

b. Public Land ownership and Access
Public land in this Plan=g ATe-a is limited to four sites.
The first is a large contiguous tract including Micro Beach, the
American Memorial Park and the Smiling Cove and DPW Beach
area. Second is the Garapan Dock and launching ramp. Third
is a parcel next to Beach Road where the sewage pumping
station is located. Fourth is the Samoan Housing Area, north
of the Hafa Adai Hotel, being used as government housing.

c. Recreation, Sites
The recreation sites are listed and described in Table IV-1.

d. Historic Sites
E7ght FUEM' sites are found within the prcject area as
shown in Figure IV-6. Located within the American Memorial.
.Park these properties include Japanese pillboxes, storage tanks,
barracks site, a bathhouse, garden complex, bunker and anti-
ai =aft gun.

IV-13

moo
LIMITS

'tIof
Fj
pPb

a.r0

6 !@,Kbjlll JAP61,
f kl U 1:@ F- I=-
MMOOP PAT
Hl'@,TORIC 61TV-4 AT

P? K

Puntan Muchot Planning Area

RECREATION SITES AT PUNTAN MUCHOT PLANNING AREA

Park or Recreation Existing
Area Fadliti s

American Memorial Park Picnic Tables - 8
Launching Ramp
Parking at Smiling
Beach - 30 vehirles
Boat TraiWxs Park-
ing - 5 trailers
Pavi3lion

Micro Beach Access road, paved and
compacted coral
1600 If
Public restroom
Pavi3lion
Picnic tables - 5
Volleyban court
Playground, Hobie
cat sailboat rental
Windsurfer rental

e. Beach Erosion and Storm Sur@Le Zones
Shoreline erosion has occurred at four locations in this
Planning Area, as depicted in Figure IV-7.. Additionally,
interacting and convergent longshore currents deplete the Micro
Beach area.
Doan and Siegrist also point out a special concern around
Micro Beach. They note that the present configuration of
Muchat Pcint is the result of several thousands of years of
interaction among winds, waves, tides, currents and sea level
changes and represents an equilibrium cf these forces which is
perhaps easily disturbed but, in all probability, self-restozing.
At Puntan Muchat the persistent longshore currents, resulting
from a combanaidon of winds and daily tides, are intermittently
eroding and transporting sands from the low promontory and
adjacent beaches, and subsequently depositing them as bars on
the reef Mat. This on-gcing process occurs at the rate of Eve
feet per year from Puntan Muchct.

f. Stormwater Draina.@Le
1. Existing Development and Public Facflities
In June 1984 the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers re-
leased its "Draft Detailed Project Report and Environmental
Statement for the Garapan Flood Control PrcJect." The
objective of this prqjectis to alleviate recurring andsevere
flooding in the lower Garapan area.

IV-15

300
JDO 1+
c
Anicra
Beacki

AU eu

I'A

dlP

boo I+

FIGURE IV-7

SHORELINE EROSION
INTHE
PUNTAN MUCHOT PLANNING AREA

IV-16

Puntan Muchot Planning Area

Residences as well as small and moderate size commercial
structures are affected by floodwaters. In August 1978
Tropical Storm Carmen caused an estimated $200,000 worth
of damage to buildings over a 90-acre area in the village
of Garapan, which was inundated by up to 11 feet of low to
no-velocity flood waters.
The primary causes of Garapan's flood problems are the
lack of a suitable outlet channel to effectively convey runoff
to the ocean and the relatively flat topography of the area
which compounds the drainage problem. Related problems
are reduced water quality of the Lagoon as a result of
stormwater discharge and an interim stormwater drainage
system.
Seven possible measures were studied to alleviate
Garapan's flood control problem. These measures are listed
in Table IV-2. The only three preliminary alternative plans
which are given serious consideration involve structural
improvements consisting of a diversion -channel to convey
floodwaters to an outlet channel which would discharge the
flow into the Saipan Lagoon.
The diversion channel at each of these structural
measures is 15 to 20 feet wide at its base. The outlet
channel base widths vary from 40 to 50 feet. Utility're-
locations, new culvert crossings and (for one alternative)
relocation of four residences are also required.
The presently recommended flood control plan is
depicted in Figure IV-8. The channel is 5,720 feet long
and discharges into Tanapag Harbor. It's typical sections
are presented in Figure IV-9.
The recommended alternative is preferable - over the
other two structural alternatives, especially because its
discharge point is Tanapag Harbor rather than in. shallow
Lagoon waters farther south within the Puntan Muchot and
Garapan Lagoon Planning Areas. Nonetheless, the
recommended plan has several inherent problems, now-b-61
studies in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. _These
include :
- The potential for disturbing unknown subsurface
historic sites
- Potentially altering the existing wetland sites
- Strong opposition from the National Park- Service' f or
construction of the outlet channel through -a portion
of the American Memorial Park
- Opposition from the CNMI Department of -Natural-
Resources because the channel traverses a' wetland
and may endanger some birds in the area
While the inevitable impacts and obstacles of the-plix@
overland portion of the project do not appear part-icularlf-
difficult to mitigate, additional study and attention must be
given to the Lagoon's water quality as it is affected by -a
large volume of stormwater discharge. All the -alternatives-
will create temporary as well as intermittent-. long-term

IV-17

Puntan Muchot Planning Area

TABLE IV-2

MEASURES FOR ALLEVIATING
GARAPAN FLOODING

.1vieasures Preliminary Findings

Flood Warnings /Temporary Evacuation Predictions untimely and un
reliable for small drainage
areas.

Flood Proofing Not practical. Adverse socio-
economic impact.

Permanent Evacuation and Relocation High cost and adverse housing
and social impact, but being
considered further.

Floodplain Regulation Does not alleviate the existing
flood problems in developed
areas.

Ponding Basins Less favorable than other struc-
tural- measures.

Channel-Levee Improvements Has merit, should consider
further.

Combination Nonstructural and Structural Less desirable than structural
measures from the equity stand-
point.

Source: Draft Detailed Project Report and Environmental Statement Garapan
Flood Central. U.S. Army Corps of Engineer. June 1984.

IV-18

PA CIFIC 0 CZ.4 N

PUNTAN MUCHOT I P34 @. ?P'G

MICRO BEACH

HYATT
REGENCY AMERICAN
HOTEL MEMORIAL
PARK C::LVERT

INTER-
CONTINENTAL -@-CMANNEL
HOTEL

CULVERT

ElftMENTARY
'SCHOOL

=MAR
HAFA A13AI MOTE KING
4 40AD

CULVERT

N
CJ
4 ca
w -C
to

0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.3-

SCALE IN MILES

Figure IV-8. Recommended Plan for Garapan Flood Control.

Source: Draft Detailed Project Report and
Environmental Statement, U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers, 1984.

IV-19

H el

vArzw@ z

TYPICAL RIPRAP LINED SECTION
4fAl-ION -fjo 5TA,-rION z blo b5o 6.5,00 -ryFF' I-INI116
0 + 00 -ro a +'00 :5 Q0, 20, .101 NOV,:
e) + 000 ':5 40
5 +00 -ra 1 20 w
+ 50 . co + 2o, +o' ao'
Ira,
+ 70 TO 0+00 1.5 W1 201
N I I
C@ 47 + 00 V 4b "o 1-5 15 1 10 Is 6flelf Ito
t5-0 + 00 TO 7 + '2?- 2.5 15 15 15 el'ONO 1;@irwAr

VIA, r- 15- f-) . r"
-@e a P^515 H4
rice-,)

_j I

Figure IV-9. Typical Sectio
TYPICAL GRASSED SECTION Source: Draft
and Environmen
+ To @@TA' 100 Corps of Engin

Puntan Muchot Planning Area

effects on coastal water- cruaYitv, Tn the C,,:t2=-t
channel would require dredging of the reef flat for a
distance Of about 100 feet off-shore. Localized turbidity
would continue for the duration of dredging activities.
During the discharge of relatively large volumes of
stormwater runaff through the channel outlet into the
Lagoon, long-term water quality impacts can be anticipated.
A temporary zone of mixing would result with higher than
ambient turbidity and depressed salinity. other pollutants
@xom terrestrial. sources can also be expected. These
impacts must be more closely studies in order to understand
their consequences so that appropriate measures can be
provided within the final pro-lect analysis.

2. Economic Resources
a. Subsistence Eibing and Gathering
Subsistence fishing occurs to a lesser extent along the
shoreline of Planning Area 4 than in other shoreline zones due
to the development of hotels and other commercial facilities.
There is considerable boat traffic utilizing the Smiling Cove
Harbor and many small fishing boats enter the Lagoon and
Philippine Sea from this 3aunch site. Throw-net (Talaya)
fishermen can be seen along the beach areas but are more
frequent along micro Beach, the American memorka Park and
south of the Hafa Adai. Hotel (to Garapan Dock). Tourist
related activ=es in the vicinity of the three hotels tend to
preclude shoreline fishing except during the very early morning
hours.

b. Commercial. and S22Et Fishing and Facilities
Garapan Wharf (Garapan Dock) was originally constructed
by the Japanese and later modified by the U.S. after World War
31. The dock consists of a 485 foot concrete pier, a dredged
channel and docking area and a concrete landing ramp.
Dredged depth ranges from 5 to 10 feet. A boat launch ramp
and trailer parking area are also available here (also see
Section B-1, this chapter).
The Smiling Harbor dock and boat launching ramps are
located along the north central portion of the American Memor:ial
Park. The Saipan Fishing Center is located just south of the
Garapan Wharf .
Small boat launching ramps are being constructed for
Smiling Beach and Garapan Fishing Center.

c. Ports and SL@22!Eg
No ports and shipping facilities exist in this planning area.

!n d. Tourism lnducIL@Ey
he Puntan Muchot Planning Area is the heart of Saipan's
tourist facilities, including the large hotels and the majority of
Saipan's tourist-oriented businesses. Both the tourist ac-
commodations as well as direct and indirect economic toulism

IV-21

Puntan Muchot Planning Area

industry businesses are presently expanding in response to the
steady flow of tourists to Saipan. Many of Garapan's former
residences have been converted to small shops and nightclubs
catering to local and tourist markets.
The off-shore Lagoon waters are well used by tourists for
snorkeling, wading, swimming, surfboarding and sailing. The
PDI boat shuttles tourists between the Hafa Adai Hotel and
Managaha Island.

IV-22

CHAPTER V - GARAPAN LAGOON PLANNING AREA

Planning Area 5 encompasses the small cove opposite the fisheries
complex in Garapan south to San Jose Beach (just north of the intersection
of Beach Road and Chalan Msgr. Guerrero Road). The shoreline is mostly a
continuous sandy beach with some gravel and widely scattered coral/algal
rubble. The shoreline is relatively undisturbed except for the cove opposite
the fisheries complex which was dredged and filled on-shore in order to
create a mooring area and two piers.

A. Natural Resources-

1. Living Marine Resources

a. Near-shore
The near-shore zone of Planning Area 5 is generally com-
prised of a sand and sand/ silt/ rubble substrate covered by
thick stands of seagrass with only an occasional coral head
scattered among the seagrass and algae. Because of the heavy
runoff of fresh water into the near-shore environment, dense
Enhalus acoroides beds are found in a narrow band (approx-
imatery-10 _-50 m wide) along the shoreline throughout most of
this Planning Area. Enhalus accounts for 60 - 100% coverage
and very few if any c-o-ra-9-exist where the seagrass forms such
dense stands. Freshwater runoff and nutrients are known to
enhance the growth of Enhalus, and it would also tend to stress
any corals in the vicinity of a storm drain or outlet,--- Ver-y-
little, if any, Enhalus is found south of Area 5, although the
Re-
seagrass Halodu uninervis becomes very common.
Intermixe witR and sometimes seaward of the Enhalus is
the very common Halodule uninervis. Halodule is -M-e-major
marine plant (70 - 90% o? t e algae and seagrass) throughout all
of the near-shore zone of Area 5 (seaward -of the Enhalus
zone). The percent cover'varies from approxiiii;-itely-2-0--------T53i-,
with higher coverage along Unai Chalan Laulau and Unai
Garapan. Other species common in this zone include Halimeda
macroloba, H. opuntia, Padina tenuis and Dic@Z_o_ta bartayresii,
although none 57 Me e-aT-gae comprise more than one to five
percent of the total bottom cover. In the southern portion of
Area 5 some growth of the gr6en algae Enteromorpha clathrata
was present along the shoreline. This algae only grows in the
intertidal zone and sometimes washes up on the beach.
Corals in the near-shore zone are very sparse and are
characterized by scattered, small colonites of Porites lutea and
T_ an
Pocillmora damicornis. Areawide, live coral c ver is ess th
one percent except in spots such as the area below the fish-
eries complex and opposite Unai Garapan where Porites -and
Pocillopora comprise as much as 5% cover.
Conspicuous invertebrates in the near-shore zone include
the common sea cucumbers Holothuria atra, Actinop1ga
echinites, Bohadschia ar us B. marmorat@T-and Holothuria-
eaulis,-and_tE_e-s_t_a_r_Esh Lind a. fa-evigata. The clam "Amsun" is

V-1

Garapan Lagoon Planning Area

found in abundance near-shore in the Enhalus and Halodule

L
seagrass beds. Frequently people are observed digging in 'he
substrate within the seagrass beds all along the Garapan Lagoon
south to San Jose Beach for this clam, locally known as
"Amsun." Although this is likely an important resource at the
subsistence level, a quantitative evaluation of the actual and
potential harvest cannot be determined at this time.
Subsistence fishing occurs along the shoreline of the
Garapan Lagoon, and fishermen using talayas (throw-nets) and
spears are often observed searching for schools of juvenile to
medium-size fishes as well as- occasionally larger fish (such as
Mullet) which feed and hide among the dense seagrass beds and
occasional coral heads. Common fishes observed in the near-
shore zone include juvenile and adult rabbitfish (Siganus spinus
and S - argentus), mullet (Mugilidae), goatfish (M ffi-d-a-e-F,
snappers (:tutjanidae) and the emperor Lethrinus harak.
Amesbury, et. al. (1979) reports that this near-sh re area
contains abundant populations of rabbitfish, goatfish (primarily
Parupeneus barberinus) and silversides (Atherinidae). Other
fishes observed include groupers (Serranidae), jacks
(Carangidae), wrasses (Labridae), juvenile and adult parrotfish
(Scaridae), surgeonfish (Acanthuridae) and cardinalfish
(Apogonidae).
Common juvenile fishes harvested along the shore with cast
nets include goatfish (Tiao), jacks (Ee), rabbitfish (Manahac
and Dagi) and mullet (Aguas). Occasionally, small wrasses"
halfbeaks, silversides and needlefish are also harvested by net
fishermen.

b. Lagoon
The Lagoon zone in Area 5 varies from approximately two to
four meters in depth and is mostly sand and coral/rubble
substrate. Several species of algae, some seagrass and scat-
tered to patchy corals are found in this area, with a few
patches of staghorn Acropora. coral also present.
Some portions of -the Lagoon floor are covered with a fine
mat of the seagrasses Halodule uninervis and Halophila minor.
These are most common where the substrate is sand c@r_fine
rubble. Percent cover varies greatly from approximately 25
75%. Where the rubble is more prominent and larger in size,
other marine plants such as Padina tenuis, Halimeda macroloba,
Dictyota bart2lresii, T u r 9 In-a-r i aornata and Sargassum
polycVstum. are present.
Scattered among the rubble substrate are small patches of
coral and solitary coral colonies, predominately Pocillopora
damicornis, Porites lutea, Acropora. nasuta and A. formosa.
Live coral coverage in the Lagoon varies from less than one
percent to approximately five percent, exclusive of the
Acropora patch reefs. A few patch reef s are found in the
middle to outer lagoon opposite Unai Garapan and Unai Chalan
Laulau, the largest being in the southern section of Area 5.
These patch reefs are comprised almost entirely of Acropora

V-2

Garapan Lagoon Planning Area

formosa, with some A. aspera, Pocillopora damicornis, P.
setchelli and P. danae. Some of these patch reefs are 60-80 %
dead A. formosa, with other species of coral growing on the
dead branches. In addition, the algae Turbinaria ornata and
Schizothrix calcicola were found attached to the dead coral
network. The larger zone of Acropora to the south near an
opening in the reef is more alive and varies from 5 - 40% live
cover. Additional corals found in this area include Psammocora
contigua, P. obtusangula and Millepora dichotoma.
Fishes observed in the lagoon zone varies in species compo-
sition and density with the greater numbers in the vicinity of
the patch reefs. Common species include the surgeonfish
Ctenochoetus striatus, Zebrasoma flavescens, Acanthurus
xanthopterus and Naso literatus; the damselfish Dascyllus
aruanus, Chromis caerulea, Stegastes nigricans and S. lividus;
juvenile and adult parrotfish including Scarus sordidus and S.
ghobban; the goatfish Parupeneus barberinus and Mulloidichthys
flavolineatus; and in the Acropora thickets the squirrelfish
Adioryx spinifer, Flammeo opercularis, F. sammara and
this zone contained the highest density of goatfish (Mullidae)
and the second highest density of juvenile parrotfish (Scaridae)
and cardinalfish (Apogonidae). Other common fishes observed
in this habitat were jacks (Carangidae), wrasses (Labridae),
surgeonfish (Acanthuridae), rabbitfish (Siganidae) and snap-
pers (Lutjanidae).

C. Reef Flat
The reef flat within this Planning Area contains a diverse
coral community which averages 25 - 40% live cover. The reef
flat and margin are better defined and more continuous than
that further north in Area 4. Predominant corals- include
Acropra formosa and A. aspera which form patch reefs and
thickets that approach 75 - 80% cover in a few spots. Other
common corals observed are Acropora smithi, A. nasuta, A.
palifera, Porites lutea, P. cylindrical, Pocillopora damicornis, P.
danae, P. setchelli, Montipora ehrenbergii, Goniastrea
retifomis, Psammocora obtusangula, Stylophora mordax,
Pachyseris; speciosa, Favia matthaii, Platygyra daedalae and
Leptoria phrygia.
Marine plants were less common in the reef flat zone than in
the Lagoon zone and most species were those which attach to
dead coral and coral/algal rubble. Species observed include
Padina tenuis, Halimeda opuntia, Caulerpa cupressoides,
Turbinaria ornata and Acanthophora spicifera. Only a very
small amount of the seagrasses Halophila minor and Halodule
uninervis are present, mostly in the small patches along
the reef flat.
Fishes are rather abundant and diverse in this area. All
the species observed in the Lagoon are present on the reef flat.
as well. Schools of goatfish (Mullidae), juvenile and adult
parrotfish (primarily Scarus sordidus and S. (psittacus),

V-3

Garapan Lagoon Planning Area

surgeonfish (mostly Acanthurus triostegus and A. mata) and
rabbitfish (Siganus spinus) were observed hir-e. Wrasses
(Labridae) a:@e-more abundant in this zone including Gomphosus
varius, Halichoeres hortulanus, H. trimaculatus and Thalassoma
quinquevittata. Fishes -!;u--ch aTs squirrelf (Holocentridae) . I
moorish idols (Zanclus cornutus) and butterflyfishes
(Chaetodontidae) are most agu-ndant in the areas of rich coral
growth and among the Acropora patch reefs.

d. Reef Margin and Slope
The reef margin and slope along Area 5 begin to form a
more defined and continuous barrier reef, unlike the dis-
continuous' reef pattern north of the lighthouse. Water visi-
bility near the lighthouse and channel is generally poor, as this
is the one of the major exit points for water from Areas 2 and
4. Visibility improves to approximately 60 - 80 feet as one
moves south from the lighthouse area. Lagoon water also exits
at the small cut in the reef near the southern boundary of this
Planning Area. However, this exiting water does not seem to
adversely affect water -clarity.
Percent of live coral cover along the barrier reef margin
and slope averages 10 - 15% and approaches 25 - 30% in a few
areas. There are large sections of mostly dead coral, likely the
result of past and present infestations of Acanthaster planci.
Approximately 12 individual starfish were 'sighted during the
tows, but an additional 50 - 60 recent feeding spots were
observed. At the time of this survey the majority - of the
Acanthaster was sighted in the southern portion of Area 5.
The most dominant corals observed were Porites rus,
Poci@?Pora eydouxi, Acropora palifera, Millepora platyphy la and
M. dichotoma. Other common corals observed along the reef
margin and slope include Pocillopora damicornis, P. verrucosa,
P. elegans, Acropora irregularis, A. gravida, A. nasuta, A.
surrculosa-, A. smithi, A. iluEulis, Forites lutea, T. I
australiensis, Stylophora mordax, Montipora sp. , Pavona
duerdeni, Favia stelligera, F. pallida, F. matthaii, Diploastrea
heliopora, Platygyra daedalea, LobophyUia corymbosa and
Heliopora coerulea.
Fish diverTt-y is good along the barrier reef margin and
slope although most fishes are small forms, generally less than
1211 in length. The sand and rubble bottom areas contain good
populations of jacks (Carangidae), parrotfish (Scaridae) and
goatfish (Mullidae). The coral heads and the many holes within
the reef network provide habitats for such forms as squirrelfish
(Holocentridae) , surgeonfish (Acanthuridae), damselfish
(Pomacentridae), groupers (Serranidae) and others.
Amesbury, et. al. (1979) found that this zone was one of
two habitats of highest surgeonfish abundance (primarily
Acanthurus lineatus) and was the area highest in abundance for
aTuIlt Fa_PFo_tNs_hIarge wrasses and large groupers. Some very
large needlefish were also observed, as were rudderfish
(Kyphosus cinerascens) and fusilers (Caesio sp.).

V-4

Garapan Lagoon Planning Area

Some of the more common species observed in this zone are
the squirrelfish Adioryx spinifer, the snappers Lutjanus bohar,
L. fulvus, L. monostigmus, the beams Monotaxis grandoculus
and Scolopsis canceilatus, the jacks Caranx melampygus and
Decapterus pinnulatus, the goatfish Mulloidichtys flavolineatus,
Parapeneus barberinus, P. bifasciatus, P. cyclostomus, and P.
trifasciatus, several species of butterflyfish (Chaetodon sp.),
the wrasses Cheilinus chlorurus, C. trilobatus, C. undulatus,
Gomphosus varius, Thalassoma fuscum, T. hardwicke and T.
lutescens, the parrotfish Cetoscarus bicolor, Scarus chlorodon,
S. ghobban, S. rubroviolaceus and S. sordidus, and the
surgeonfish Acanthurus glaucopareius, A. guttatus, A. mata,
A. nigrofuscus, A. triostegus, Naso litdratus and N. unicornis
Other marine life observed in this zone include one green
sea turtle (Chelonia 0mdas), the starfish Linckia laevigata and
Culcita novaeguineae, the sea cucumbers Thelenota anasas and
Holothuria edulis and Trochus (Trochus ni1oticus).

2. Physical Marine Resources

a. Currents
No evaluations of the currents in Planning Area 5- have
been conducted. It is assumed that the general circulation
pattern would be an along-shore transport moving south to
southwest exiting the Lagoon in low areas and cuts and chan-
nels in the barrier reef. One small opening is located in the
outer reef opposite Unai Chalan Laulau and water likely exits
the Lagoon here. Water in the northernmost section of this
area may move northwest and exit through the Garapan -channel-
as suggested by M & E Pacific (1980). This would likely hold
true for ebbing tides, during periods of weak northeasterly
winds and during southerly winds (unusual). Much of the
Lagoon water would move south and exit the Lagoon through
the channel and lower reef system at Susupe.

b. Water Quality
The water quality in this portion of the Saipan---Lagoon is--
good but heavily influenced by freshwater runoff and- associated
sediments and nutrients. There are a total of 10 storm drains
that empty into this portion of the Garapan Lagoon.
The extensive seagrass beds of Enhalus and the occurrance
of the algae Enteromorpha are indicators that freshwater-and
increased levels of nutrients are entering the near-shore -en-
vironment.
The Division of Environmental Quality (DEQ) collects and
analyzes water samples from only two locations in this Planning
Area; Dave Sablan Beach and Chalan Laulau Beach. Data on
various water quality parameters are available at the DEQ
office. Monitoring station sites and data regarding occurrence
and violations of fecal coliform standards are depicted on Figure
I-1 of this Volume. Analysis of recent data from the DEQ-
(October 1984 - March 1985) revealed all fecal coliform
concentrations to be less than 200/100 ml.

V-5

Garapan Lagoon Planning Area

3. On-shore Resources

a. Rare, Threatened and Endangered Species
No wetlands, mangroves or other critical habitat sites are
located in this planning area. The extensive sand beach shore-
line was likely used by the Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas)
for nesting in the past. There are no recent records of any
nesting activities within this area.
No threatened or endangered species of birds would likely
be found in this area as the vegetation is not extensive and
there are no densely forested or wetland sites.
The large patch reef of the branching coral Acropora
formosa found both to the south (this planning area) and north
(Planning Area IV) of the lighthouse channel should be pro-
tected from any activities that might adversely impact the
corals. A portion of the barrier reef south of the lighthouse
has been designated as a Trochus (Trochus niloticus) preserve.
The Trochus sanctuary encompasses -the barrier reef from the
lighthouse to one mile south, with the inshore boundary ex-
tending 50 yards in-shore of the edge of the reef and the 40
foot depth contour as the offshore boundary. No taking of
Trochus is allowed within this sanctuary and one at Tank Beach
(Kagman).

B. Man-made Resources and Human Uses

.1. Land Uses

a. Existing Development and Public Facilities
There is no major existing development with this Planning
Area with the exception of beach park facilities at Unai Garapan
and at Unai Chalan Laulau.

b. Public Land Ownership and Access
The full extent of this linear, beach-oriented Planning Area
is in public ownership.

c. Recreation Sites
The following park and recreation facilities now exist within
Planning Area V.

v-6

Garapan Lagoon Planning Area

Table V-1

RECREATION SITES AT GARAPAN LAGOON PLANNING AREA

Park or Recreation Existing
Area Facilities

Unai Garapan Access Road, Compacted
Coral P300 linear feet
(if)
Launching Ramp
Fishing Dock
Parking for 6 vehicles
and boat trailers
Playfield

Unai Chalan
Laulau Picnic Tables 4

d. Historic Sites
A WWII Japanese bunker is located at the intersection of
Chalan Laulau and Beach Road.
Most of the beach in this area was the site of the invasion
by American forces in 1944 and is now designated as a National
Historic Landmark.

e. Beach Erosion and Stormwave Redistribution
BeacK erosion occurs along thg southernmost 2000 -feet of
shoreline within this Planning Area. Also, beach depletion
occurs along the entire shoreline as a result of long-shore drift
which within a 15 - 20 foot zone in-shore of the surf zone.

f. Stormwater Drainage
Ten storm drainage culverts empty into the Saipan Lagoon
along this Planning Area. They discharge runoff from the
Beach Road area as well as from upstream areas, inland of-----
Beach Road.

2. Economic Resources

a. Subsistence Fishing and Gathering
A gooUl deal of subsistence fishing and gathering occurs in
the Garpan Lagoon. The shoreline is largely sandy beach
which is easily accessible by foot or vehicle. It is ;@ery qommon-
to observe several Talaya fishermen and spearfisherme-n- along-
the shoreline and near-shore zones. Frequently people are ob-
served digging for clams (Ansum) in among the dense seagrass
(Enhalus) beds. Small boats are sometimes moored 'along shore
or pulled up on the beach in this area. The deeper areas of-
the Lagoon and reef flat provide good reefs for spearfishing
and hook and line fishing.

V-7

Garapan Lagoon Planning Area

b. Commercial and Sport Fishing and Facilities
None in this area

c. Port and Shipping
None in this area

d. Tourism Industry
The only tourism industry facilities within this Planning
Area are the Saipan Lady Floating Restaurant, a 1001 long,
former sailing vessel converted into a 50-seat floating
restaurant and bar, and a WWII tank and bunker- site which is
a popular site for picture taking.

V-8

CHAPTER VI - PUNTAN SUSUPE PLANNING AREA

The beach strand and near-shore zones of the Puntan Susupe Planning
Area (Area 6) are heavily used for fishing and gathering, recreational uses
and water-oriented activities of many kinds by residents and tourists.
Several sandy beaches stretch nearly the entire length of Area 6. The
Diamond Hotel, formerly the Royal Taga, proposed for renovation into a ten
story, 329 room Diamond Hotel and the Grand Hotel, to expand by 34 rooms,
are also- found here. Sugar Dock in Susupe provides good access to the
Lagoon for boaters, and a channel allows relatively safe passage through the
barrier reef.

A. Natural Resources

1. Living,._Marine Resources

a. Near-shore
The near-shore zone of Planning Area 6 contains rather
extensive beds of the seagrass Halodule -uninervis with widely_
scattered and isolated coral heads. Th ''substrate is primarily
sand with some coral/algal rubble in the northern section of
this area from the Royal Taga Hotel Beach. North along the
shoreline is a fiinging dense stand of approximately 75 - 90%
Halodule which varies from about 100 - 200 m in width.
Along the shoreline and fringing the Civic Center and Royal
Taga Beaches is the filamentous green alga Enteromor@Rha
clathrata. This algae is somewhat seasonal and a favorite food
of the-1-uvenile rabbitfish manahac (Siganus spMus). This plant
is usually considered bothersome and unattractive by tourists,
hotel owners and other beach users. It is sometimes removed
by hand (rakes) to make the beaches more attractive. It is
known that growth of Enteromorpha is greatly enhanced by
increased nutrient levels which enter the near-shore environ-
ment via runoff from the land or from underground streams
(seeps). Other factors which are known to enhance growth of
this alga include shorelines which are -sheltered from -- seyJere
wave action and water movement, existence of rubble and other
types of substrate which provide a holdfast for the plant and
(to a lesser degree) slightly lower salinity than normal- seawater
(25 - 30 parts per thousand).
Opposite Puntan Susupe and south to Unai Chalan Kanoa
the seagrass and algae zone is somewhat wider, extending
approximately 300 - 400 m -from shore. Species composition is
mostly Halodule uninervis- which accounts for 70 - 90% of the
cover, followed by Dictyota bartayressii, Turbinaria ornata and
Halimeda opuntia. Scattered among these dense -Mlo-d=e-sea-
grass beds are a few corals including Pocillopor-a-Ta-micornis,
Porites lutea and a little Acr22ora formosa. Coral cov;ir in this
zone TaRes from about one to five percent.
Fish fauna in this near-shore zone predominated by ex-
tensive Halodule beds includes a number 'of juvenile forms.,
especiallf--snappers (Lutjanidae), rabbitfish (Siganidae), parrot-

VI-1

Puntan Susupe Planning Area

fish (Scaridae) and goatfish (Mullidae). Other common fish ob-
served include the goatfish Parupeneus barberinus and
Mulloidichtys flavolineatus, mullet (Mugilidae), the surgeonfish
Acanthurus triostegus and A. olivaceous, the emperor Lethrinus
harak, the rabbitfish Siganus argenteus and S. spinus and the
squirrelfish Adioryx diadema, A. spinifer and Flammeo sammara.

b. Lagoon
The Lagoon zone of Area 6 is comprised mostly of sand and
coral rubble substrate with scattered corals, algae and sea-
grass. North of Puntan Susupe the Lagoon contains some
seagrass (Halodule) in scattered patches and as a light cover
on sandy substrate, but this seagrass does not occur in dense
mats. Dictyota barta esii, Sargassum polycystum, Padina
tenuis and Halimeda op ntia are also present in varying but
sm9I amounts. Cnrnls are also widely scattered and account for
less than five percent cover. Species include Pocillopora
damicornis, Porites lutea and Acropora formosa. There exist a
few intermittent "fingerg)' of c-orals that extend from the barrier
reef flat shoreward into the Lagoon that are composed primarily
of Acro@ora formosa and A. teres. These patches of coral
account for 70 - 80T live cover., but the total area covered by
corals is small.
South of Puntan Susupe the Lagoon narrows and is
dominated by the seagrass Halodule (50 - 80%) and the algae
Dictyota, Turbinaria, Halimeda and Padina. Corals are sparse
and scattered, with Porites lutea and Pocillopora damicornis,
dominating but accounting for less than five percent cover.
South of the Sugar Dock in the boat channel and just south of
this channel coral cover increases to approximately 5 - 10%.
Besides P. lutea and P. damicornis, species observed here
include Pocffl-opora dan-ae, Acropora aspera, A. nasuta,
Montipora verrucosa, Pavona duerdeni, Porites CY
Psammocora, sp. and Favia matthaii.
Fish Fauna for tge-lagoon zone of Area 6 is very similar to
that found in Area 5. Fish diversity and density are both
rather low as the habitat is predominated by extensive patches
of loose sand and rubble with only occasional, small patches of
Halodule and scattered corals. Mullet (Mugilidae) are fairly
common, and other fishes observed include the milkfish Chanos
chanos, cardinalfish (Apogonidae), the emperor LeFF-rinus
spmus, and some unidentified juvenile fishes. Amesbury, et.
al. (1979) describes this habitat as containing few fishes of any
kind except for the milkfish and silversides (Atherinidae).

c. Reef Flat
The reeT flat zone in Area 6 varies considerably in percent
cover and diversity of corals, ranging from less than 5% to
approximately 15 - 20% in spots. Areas of highest coral cover
and diversity are opposite the intersection of Beach Road and
Chalan Msgr. Guerrero, Unai Susupe and the channel and reef
flat south of Sugar Dock. Localized small patch reefs of

VI-2

Puntan Susupe Planning Area

Acropora provide as much as 70 - 80% live cover, but the
overail area of these reefs is small. Dominant corals along the
reef flat include Acropora formosa, A. aspera, A. teres,
Pocillopora damicornis, P. danae, Pavona divaricata, Montipora
foveolata, M. eEr_e_nber_aU*', Psammocora contigua, Goniastrea
retiformis, G. edwardsi, Favia pallida, Favites sp. and Millepora
dichotoma.
Th@_ most common marine plants in this zone include
Halimeda 2puntia, Dictyota bartayresii, Padina tenuis,
T
U_ -a
ur inaria ornata and little Halodule and Hal @ Ela in isolated
sandy areas. Some coralline gae is also present where the
reef flat nears the margin (Porolithon onkoides and LithophXlIum
moluccense).
Fishes observed in the reef flat zone of Area 6 are similar
to those which occur in Area 5. Overall, the fish fauna is rich
and diverse and several schools of juvenile and adult fishes
were observed, including parrotfish (primarily Scarus
sordidus), surgeonfish (Acanthurus triostegus, A. mata and
Ctenochaetus striatus), rabbitfish (Sig aus s@inTs),-goatfish
(Mulloidi@t s Ta-y-o-Ii-neatus and Parupeneus barberinus) and the
snapper Lutjanus Easmi Healthy populations o-T-other food
fishes are also present, ncluding squirrelfish (Holocentridae),
wrasses (Labridae), jacks (Carangidae) - and grouper .s
(Serranidae).

d. Reef Margin and Slope
The reef margin and slope in the Puntan Susupe Planning
Area are characterized by a well defined barrier reef system
with good coral and fish diversity and a well developed spur
and grove system. The reef slope features sand channels and
high relief coral spits and mounds, some of which rise as much
as two to ten meters from the bottom. At the time of this
survey, extensive amounts of coral were dead, presumably from
recent Acanthaster land predation. In some areas live coral
cover is only 5 =_ 10 , and it reaches a maximum of only 15 -
25% in very few areas. During one 25 minute tow in this area
approximatel)@ 60 Acanthaster (or fresh feeding sites) were
counted.
The most dominant coral observed was Porites rus which
formes huge colonies in some areas. Also very common is
Porites lutea, Acropora nasuta, A. irregularisl A. palifera,
StyLo2h6ra mordax, Pocillopora eydouxi, Millepora dichotoma, M.
latifolia, Heliopora coerulea, Stylaster gracilis, Monti2ora
tygy
verrucosa, Favia favus, Pla a daeda ea, Leptoria
phrygi-aand -f-avona due deni. A few areas contam'_ large
patches of th@' -soft cor-al-s-Sa-r-cophyton sp. and Sinularia sp.
Diverse fish populations were observed along the margin
and slope zone although it is possible that the large amount of
dead coral has been detrimental to their overall diversity and
biomass. Amesbury, et. al. (1979) reports that this habitat
contains the greatest overall fish diversity with highest abun-
dances of surgeonfish (especially Acanthurus lineatus), adult

VI-3

Puntan Susupe Planning Area

parrotfish (Scaridae), large wrasses (Labridae), large groupers
CD
(Epinephelus merra), rudderfisn' (Kyphosus cinerascens) and
fusilers (Caesio caerulaureus).
I Othei-_R's-hes observed in abundance include squirrelfish
(Adioryx spinifer and A. caudimaculatus), emperors
(Gnathodentex. aureolineatus and Lethrinus harak), snappers
(Lutjanus kasmira and L. fulvus) , breams (Scolopsis
cancellatus) , jacks (CaraiTx- m'elampygus and Decapterus
a _F I
pinnul tus) and surgeonfish Acanthurus triostegus A.
glaucopareius, Ctenochaetus striatus and Naso literatus).

2. Physical Marine Resources

a. Currents
The general current pattern in Planning Area 6 is primarily
an along-shore movement of the near-shore water and a south
to southwesterly movement in the mid-lagoon and reef flat zones
towards a channel or reef opening. There is well-defined
movement of water away from shore and out through an opening
in the barrier reef near the Sugar Dock Channel.
The currents near the Saipan Grand Hotel and near Chalan
Kanoa approximately 1500 m south of the Sugar Dock were
investigated by M & E Pacific (1980). The point where the
drogues were released is actually located in the northern
portion of Planning Area 7. However, the drogue paths
entered Area 6 as the water moved towards the reef opening of
Sugar Dock Channel so these results are discussed in this
section.
Figures VI-1 and VI-2 show the paths of the drogues
released in front of the Grand Hotel during both ebb and flood
tide conditions. Current velocity averaged from 2.8 cm/sec
(0.05 kts.) to 20.3 cm/sec (0.39 kts.) with higher velocities
during ebb tides. Speeds reached as high as 35 cm/sec (0.68
kts.) near the Sugar Dock Channel. Drogue movement was
predominantly southerly and towards the reef opening, becoming
westerly as water exits the Lagoon through the boat channel
opposite Sugar Dock.
Figures VI-3 and VI-4 depict drogue movements at the
Chalan Kanoa site. Here water transport is in a northerly
direction exiting the Lagoon at a shoal (approximately 1000 m
south of Sugar Dock) and at the channel opening. Current
velocities were found to be generally greater during ebb tide
conditions than during flood tides. Velocities averaged from
8.0 cm/sec (0.15 kts.) to 14.0 cm/sec (0.27 kts.). Figure VI-5-
shows the generalized circulation pattern for this portion of the
Saipan Lagoon.

b. Water Quality
Water quality in Planning Area 6 is variable but generally
good. Although only a couple of stormwater outlets empty into
the Lagoon, the rather extensive along-shore occurrence of the
alga Enteromorpha clathrata indicates that there is likely an

VI-4

DEPTH OF DROGU ERE[

t4o
0 SURFACE DROGUE
0 3 FEET DROGUE

43
w 0

VIOAD

SAIPA
4. 1 GRAND
HOTEL SUGAR 2- AB
D 0 VCK
@cl
PIPE
STATION "SHORE" 0955
0955 S
STATION "MIDDLE" 1000 D
i0oo
STATION @00
"OCEAN"-.
REEF EDGE /003
@REEF OPENING OF SUGAR
DOCK CHANNEL

. . .........
Fic
DROGUE VE
11100 1100 LOCATION
SCALE IN FEET J E

WINWA Waft. b@khA4. Ww". bom 4"l

DEPTH OF DROGUE PRE[
UF so
0 SURFACE DROGUE
1.: 2
(3 3 FEET OROGUI

L
lp 0

SP
Ny

cl-

SAIPAN
GRAND SUGAR
STATION "SHORE" HOTEL DOCK 2-AB
AS PIPE
1551 1617' Oj%,6-r, -15-
16 1639
STATION "MIDDLE" 1555 1615 Ira36
1555 6

STATION "v63
REEF EDGE "OCEAN"- 03

REEF OPENING OF SUG
DOCK CHANNEL

FI(
DROGUE Vf
log LOCAT101
00 Fl
SCALE i:EET

DEPTH OF DROGU ERE

NO
0 SURFACE DROQUE
0 3 FEET DROGUE

15 kj 0
SP

ROAD

SAIPAN
GRAND
HOTEL SUGAR 2-ABA'NDONED
DOCK PIPE-

1350
SHOAL EXPOS D
DURING LOW
TIDE

REEF EDGE

REEF OPENING
OF SUGAR DOCK
CHANNEL

......... . ........
FI
DROGUE V

100
12
00 LOCATTO

SCALE IN FEET

DEPTH OF DROGUE PRE
-Tpurr-
SURFACE DROQUE
(3 3 FEET DROGUE lzz

w 0
z

0
VIO 0

SAIPAN
GRAND
HOTEL SUGAR 2-ABANDONED
DOCK PIPE iN
SHOAL EXPOSED
DURING LOW
TIDE

...,....,.,,-REEF EDGE
\\@REEF OPENING OF SU
DOCK CHANNEL

................
F
DROGUE
11100 0 1100 LOCATI

SCALE IN FEET
L

Vkue t4ofktvA

ftop.D

SAIPAN
GRAND
HOTEL SUGAR
DOC K

REEF EDGE

FIGUR

1 IOQ 1 100 GENERAL CIRC
E/CIIALAN KA
SCALE IN FEET susup

Puntan Susupe Planning Area

influx of fresh water and nutrients via run-off or underwater
seepsl along the shoreline. The Division of Environmental
Quality (DEQ). collects water quality data from six sampling
locations. These stations are located at San Jose Beach, Civic
Center Beach, Royal Taga Hotel, Grand Hotel, Community
School Beach and Sugar Dock. Data for various water quality
data are available from the DEQ office. Monitoring station sites
and data regarding fecal coliform occurrence and violations are
depicted on Figure I-1 of Volume I. Recent data (October 1984
- March 1985) showed no fecal coliform readings greater than
200/100 ml for all the sampling locations.

3. On-shore Resources

a. Wetlands
wetlands exist in this Planning Area.

b. Rare, Threatened and Endangered Species
No threatened or endangered species of birds or marine life
were observed in Planning Area VI. The beaches along this,
portion of the coastline were likely used as nesting sites in the
past by Green Sea Turtles (Chelonia mydas). Hotel, recrea-
tional and residential development has kept the turtles from
utilizing this area in recent years. However, turtles may
frequent this portion of the lagoon since the channel at Sugar
Dock provides an easy access point. Adequate enforcement is
needed to ensure the safety of any turtles that may enter the
lagoon and/or nest on any of the beach.

B. Man-made Resources and Human Uses

1. Land Uses

a. Existing Development and Public Facilities
The Lake Susupe drainage area is Z,753 acres and includes
Chalan Laulau, Chalan Kiya, Oleai, Susupe, Chalan Kanoa, Fina
Sisu, Chalan Piao, As Perdido and San Antonio. Lake Susupe
is the center of the drainage basin. Principal land uses af-
fected by floods in this area are single-family residences and
wetlands around Lake Susupe (not in the Puntan Susupe
Planning Area).
The preliminary plan for flood control improvements include
a low levee aligned along the eastern periphery of residential
development within the project area and an outlet channel to
releas'e flood waters to the Lagoon. A control structure may be
required at the inlet end of the wetland is not lowered. The
estimated first cost of the project is 2.1 million dollars.
The preliminary plan is still under review by local and
federal authorities. The ACOE is examining different alter-
natives before deciding to proceed into the next phase, the
Detailed Project Report. The environmental effects of the flood
water discharge into the Lagoon as a result of this preliminary

VI-10

Puntan Susupe Planning Area

plan have not yet been fully assessed. However, it is likely
that any such facility would substantially impact the Lagoon's
water quality.

b. Public Land Ownership Access
Five parcels of public land exist in this Planning Area
between the beach and Beach Road. They are, from north to
south, San Jose Beach; Civic Center Beach and the Civic
Center/ Government of the Northern Mariana islands facilities
together the the site of the Diamond Hotel (under lease); The
Unai Susupe parcel (Susupe Beach Park) adjacent to the
southern property boundary of the Grand Hotel; and a smaller
parcel to the south of beachside Chalan Kanoa. All except the
last parcel provide owner access between Beach Road and the
Saipan Lagoon Coastline.

c. Recreation Sites
The growing park and recreation facilities now exist within
Planning Area VI.

Table VI-1
RECREATION SITES AT PUNTAN SUSUPE PLANNING AREA

Puntan Susupe Planning Area

d. Historic Sites
The beach-7"llong this Planning Area is part of the Saipan
Invasion Beacht a National Historic Landmark. WWII tanks are
located at Civic Center Beach and at the intersection of Beach
Road and Chalan Msgr. Guerrero, in Oleai.

e. Beach Erosion and Stormwave Redistribution
No beach erosion and stormwave redistribution sites exist in
this Planning Area. However, gradual beach depletion occurs
due to alongshore drift which results in a continuous transport
of beach materials within a 15 - 20 foot wide inshore surf zone.

f. Stormwater Drainage
Two drainage culverts discharge stormwater in the Lagoon
within this Planning Area. One is at San Jose Beach and
handles roadside drainage flows from the San Jose areas. The
second is a channel approximately 1200 feet south of the San
Jose intersection. That culvert accommodates stormwater flow
from both Beach Road as well as some of the San Jose/Susupe
vicinity. 1.
Naturally 1',' Lake Susupe technically qualifies as a stormwater
drainage facility. During storms with high intensity and du-
ration of rainfall, Lake Susupe overflows and floods dov@nstream
areas in Chalan Kanoa. Flooding of highways and lower fring-
ing areas occurs at least once each year.

2. Economic Resources

a. Subsistence Fishing and Gathering
gubsistence fishing and gathering occurs along the shore-
line and in the Lagoon waters of Planning Area VI. Talaya
fishermen and snorkelers with spears are often seen along the
near-shore zone and in among the seagrass beds that lie just
offshore. Some harvesting of clams also occurs here.
Boaters frequently use the beach just south of the Grand
Hotel as a landing spot and for temporary mooring of vessels.
The Sugar Dock is the only improved boat launching ramp and
channel out through the barrier reef in the southern portion of
Saipan Lagoon. Many boats, both those heading offshore for
trolling and bottomfishing as well as smaller craft that fish
within the Lagoon, use this launching facility.

b. Commercial and Sport Fishing and Facilities
-Sugar Dock, also known as Chalan Kan-oa Dock, is a rem-
nant of a small Japanese dock designed for boats hauling sugar.
It is a 276 ft long pier with a small concrete launching ramp on
the northside. A culvert beneath the dock permits near-shore
currents to pass. There are no navigational aids at the dock,
and the water depth is less than six feet at low tide. The
entrance channel is approximately 30 feet wide. Adjacent lands
are privately owned.

VI-12

Puntan Susupe Planning Area

c. Port and Shi22ing
None in tnis area.

d. Tourism IndusLrI
In this Planning Area, the two primary tourist facilities are
the Diamond Hotel (formerly the Royal Taga) and the Grand
Hotel, both located at Puntan Susupe. The adjacent Unai
Susupe and Royal Taga Beaches are, naturally, well used by
tourists. The MPLC has designated this site for a proposed
aquarium as a tourist attraction. Windsurfing, sailing and
snorkeling around underwater wreck sites are popular tourist
activities here.

VI-13

CHAPTER VII - PUNTAN AFETNA PLANNING AREA

The Puntan Afetna Planning Area (Area 7) is the smallest Planning Area
and represents the southern extreme of the Saipan lagoon and barrier reef.
The entire shoreline is fronted by a sandy beach. The Lagoon area here is
rather narrow, averaging approximately 400 m wide with a maximum depth of
about 1.5 - 2 m. The shoreline becomes rocky at Puntan Agingan where the
barrier reef and lagoon meet steep slopes and cliffs along low limestone
terraces. The former White Sands Hotel was re-opened in 1984 as the Surf
Hotel, with 36 hotel and 5 lodge rooms in service; a 3 story, 71 room ex-
tension is also planned.

A. Natural Resources

1. Living Marine Resources

a. Near-shore
The. near-shore environment consists primarily of a sand
and occasional coral/algal rubble substrate covered by the
seagrass Halodule uninervis. In the northern portion of Area 7
this Halod Temit proviii-e approximately 80 - 90% coverage.
Oppoglit-eUnai Afetna the seagrass an@ algae band becomes
wider (up to 300 m) and is still dominated by Halodule, but the
percent coverage varies greatly as much of the seagrass occurs
in clumps with sandy areas in between. Other algae which
comprise less than five 'percent of the overall cover include
Halimeda opuntia, CaulMa sertularioides, Dictyota bartayresii
ana SE-bizothrix sp.
Corals are almost totally absent from the near-shore envi-
ronment in Area 7. A few small and very widely scattered
colonies of Pocillopora damicornis and Porites lutea were the
only species noted here, and they accounted for Eu-ch less than
one percent cover.
Other organisms observed include the starfish Linckia
laevigata and the sea cucumbers Holothuria atra and H. eTu-lis.
Few fishes were observed in the near-shore zine.-Small
forms and some unidentified juvenile fishes were seen among the
clumps of seagrass. Other fishes observed include mullet
(Mugilidae), rabbitfish (Siganus spinus), the emperor Lethrinus
harak, unidentified goatfish (Mlli ae), juvenile snappers
(TLutjanidae) and silversides (Atherinidae).

b. Lagoon
The lagoon zone in Area 7 consists primarily of a sand and
rubble substrate with a lot of seagrass and algae and limited
coral development. The dominant marine form is once again the
seagrass Halodule uninervis, although it occurs here in scat-
tered cluEp-sand 11@mm@ats. Also present, although in much
less quantity, is the seagrass Halophila minor. Other fre-
quently observed marine plants include Halimeda 22untia,
Dictyota bartayresii, Padina tenuis, Haffm-eda macroloba,
Schizothrix mexicana, CaUe_r]2a_cHBres_soides and Boodlia

VII-1

Puntan Afetna Planning Area

composita. Occurrence of many of these algae is patchy, and
locally one or more species many contribute from 5 - 40% of
bottom cover. However, when analyzed over the entire Planning
Area these numbers are much smaller. Generally, the algae are
more prominent north of Unai Afetna (especially Dictyota , I
Boodlia, Padina and Schizothrix) and in some small areas they
can comprise as much7as _30- 50% of the substrate cover. This
occurs primarily in the northern sector of Area 7.
Corals become more abundant within the Lagoon as it ap-
proaches the barrier reef. In the outer Lagoon, the substrate
is characterized by more rock/rubble substrate, less sand and a
harder substrate providing points of attachment for corals.
Lagoon species include Pocillopora damicornis, Porites lutea,
Psammocora con@jM, Acropora formosa, A. aspera, A. hebes,
and Heliopora coerulea. Nortli -ofunai-Af'etna, co-ral cover
varies from one to Hv`e percent with occasional higher values
where patches of Acropora occur.
Coral cover in the lagoon increases south of Puntan Afetna
and reaches 20 - 40% near Puntan Agingan. This increase is
primarily - due to an increase in abundance of species of
Acropora as well as Heliopo 'rat Favia matthaii, Platygyra pini
and the appearance of the sofi -coral -Sinularia' sp. In the
middle of the Lagoon, off-shore and just south of the former
Coast Guard Station an area containing mats of an unidentified
zooanthid (an anenome like organism) was observed.
Fishes observed in the Lagoon are very similar to those
species reported for Area 6. Common -groups include the
goatfish (Mullidae), snappers (Lutjanidae'), wrasses (Labridae),
juvenile parrotfish (Scaridae), surgeonfish (Acanthuridae),
rabbitfish (Siganidae), silversides (Atherinidae) and cardinal-
fish (Apogonidae).

c. Reef Flat
The -reef flat zone of Area 7 is we.U defined until it ends by
merging with the limestone terrace and cliffs along Puntan
Agingan. Coral diversity and percent cover are fairly good,
and the species are similar to those further north in Area 6.'
Most all the corals observed in the outer lagoon zone in this
Area were also found in the reef flat zone. Percent cover
ranged from approximately 10 - 30% with higher values found in
the reef flat areas opposite Puntan Afetna and south to the
small cut in the reef some 1500 m north of where the reef ends.
Dominant species are Acropora aspera, A. nasuta, A. smithi,
Pocillopora eydouxi, P. damicornis, P7oriies lutea, 'Pavona
divaricata and P. venj'sa. Common species incl@!_dePocillopora
elegans, P. setchelli, Acropora surculosa, A. ali era,
Montipora tubeFc-ulosa, M. sp., Heliopora coerulea, P atygyra
daedaFe-a, Favia maithal, Psamm'ocora contigua and Porites-
annae.
Fishes observed in the reef flat zone were nearly identical
to those seen in the reef flat in Area 6. However, densities of
surgeonfish (Acanthuridae), squirrelfish (Holocentridae) and

VII-2

Puntan Afetna Planning Area

goatfish (Mullidae) were greater in this Planning Area.
Amesbury, et. al. (1979) reports that this habitat contains
moderately abundant populations of juvenile parrotfish, rabbit-
fish, surgeonfish, goatfish, large wrasses and Blue Chromis.
Some common species observed include the snapper Lutjanus
fulvus, the emperor Lethrinus harak, the goatfish Muiloidichtys
flavolineatus, Parupeneus barberinus, P. bifasciatus, P.
cyclostomus, P. pleurostigma and P. trifasciatus, the parrotfish
Scarus ghobban, S. sordidus and S. sp. the surgeonfish
Acanthurus glaucopareius, A. olivaceous, A. triostegus, A.
xanthopterus, Naso brevirostris and N. literatus.

d. Reef Margin and Slope
The reef margin and slope zone in Area 7 is a well deve-
loped barrier reef system with numerous spur and grove chan-
nels and coral mounds which provide excellent relief for corals,
fishes and other marine life. Overall, coral coverage averages
20 - 25%, higher (40%) in localized areas and lower (5 - 10%) in
limited areas.
Of the entire barrier reef surveyed, the reef in this Plan-
ning Area showed the most recent signs of damage by the
starfish Acanthaster plan. During a 25 minute tow approxi-
mately 300 individuals were counted, with over 100 fresh feed-
ing sites observed.
The most dominant corals observed were Pocillopora
eydouxi, P. verrucosa, P. setchelli, Stylophora mordax,
Acropora nasuta, A. surculosa, A. irregularis, A. palifera and
Heliopora coerulea. Other species common to this zone include
two large areas of the soft coral Sinularia sp., Acropora tenuis,
A. smithi, A. valida, Pavona varians, P. duerdeni, Montipora
ehrenbergii, M. sp., Goniopora sp., Porites rus, Favia favus,
F. pallida, Goniastrea edwardsi, Diploastrea helipora,
Platygyra daedalea, P. pini, Leptoria phrygia, Leptastrea
purpurea and Lobophyllia corymbosa.
Fish fauna was rather diverse and some large grouper
(Serranidae), rudderfish (Kyphosus cinerascens) and parrotfish
(Scaridae) were observed. Also seen were two rather large
schools of parrotfish, a spotted eagle ray (Aetobatis narinari)
and a 1.5 m long reef whitetip shark (Triaenodon obesus). As
this section of the barrier reef is very similar to the margin
and slope in Area 6, Amesbury, et. al. (1979) classified them
as similar habitats. He reports that this habitat was where the
greatest overall fish diversity was recorded. It contained the
highest abundance of surgeonfish (primarily Acanthurus
lineatus), adult parrotfish (Scaridae), large wrasses (Labridae)
and large groupers (Serranidae).
Some of the more common species observed in this zone
include the groupers Epinephelus merra, E. fasciatus and
Cephalopholis argus, the emperor Gnathodentex aureolinatus,
the parrotfish Scarus gibbus, S. psittacus and S. sordidus, the
surgeonfish Acanthurus olivaceus, A. Pvroferus, A. triostegus,
A. mata, Ctenochaetus striatus and Naso lituratus, the bream

VII-3

Puntan Afetna Planning Area

Scolopsis cancellatus, and the snappers Macolor niger, Lutjanus
kasmiraland L. bohar.

2. Physical Marine Resources

a. Currents
Water movement in the southern end of the Saipan Lagoon is
not well known and no specific studies have been conducted in
this Planning Area concerning the currents. The &I & E Pacific
Study (1980) did release a series of drogues in the extreme
northern portion of Planning Area 7, and the results are shown
in the Puntan Susupe chapter (Figure VI-1, VI-2, and VI-3).
Water movement here was to the north, as the Sugar Dock
channel and shoal area to the south of the channel are major
exit points for water leaving the Lagoon.
Water moving south likely exits partially at Puntan Afetna
as the force of the normal northeasterly tradewinds would tend
to push some of the water over the reef at this point. Other
Lagoon water would tend to build up at Puntan Agingan and
likely exits the Lagoon near the point where the barrier reef
meets the limestone cliff of the point. At this location there
are large. rocks and boulders and the barrier reef is more
variable with small openings and depressions.

b. Water Quality
Water quality at the southern end of the Saipan Lagoon is
highly variable. There are no developed stormwater drains that
empty into the Lagoon in Planning Area 7. The sewage outfall
at Puntan Agingan is far enough around the point that the
normal ocean waves and oceanic current almost always provides
for good mixing of the effluent which is carried offshore to the
south or southeast. Only under unusual wind and'sea con-
ditions would the effluent possibly be transported north of
Puntan Agingan and influence the water quality of the barrier
reef and/or Lagoon.
The wastewater system sewage lift station "A-111, located
just south of San Antonio overflows when its electrical power is
interrupted. This causes raw sewage to exit via a bypass line
to the adjacent beach, causing severe pollution (see Chapter
VIII, Section B.1. b.4). This condition is responsible for
excessive violations of the coliform standard at nearby beaches.
The Division of Environmental Quality (DEQ) samples for
water quality monitoring at five locations in this Planning Area.
The stations are located at Chalan Piao Beach, Coast Guard
Beach, San Antonio Beach, Hopwood School and at the Agingan
STP Lift Station. Water quality data are available at the DEQ
office. Monitoring station sites and data regarding fecal
coliform occurrence and violations are depicted on Figure 1-1 of
this Volume.
Recent data from the DEQ (October 1984 March 1985)
showed only two individual samples with fecal coliform values of
201/100 ml, at Coast Guard Beach and the Agingan lift station

VII-4

Puntan Afetna Planning Area

Area Beach. The DEQ a1so has eight monitoring stations near
the Agingan Outfall. The following locations had fecal coliform.
content means exceeding 200/100 ml; 100' south of outfall
(33,610) ; 600 ft. north of outfall (4,859) ; and 500 ft. offshore
of outfall (367).

3. On-Shore Resources

a. Rare, Threatened and Endangered Species
The Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas) could be found
within the lagoon on occasion in this planning area but there is
no evidence that nesting is presently occurring. However,
according to the Fish and Wildlife Division, Green Turtles have
nested along the beaches in this planning area in the past. It
is possible that the endangered Nightengale Reed Warbler
(Acrocephalus luscinia) might be found within the vegetated
areas near Hopwood High School and the former Coast Guard
Station. However, these areas would not be considered as
prime or critical habitat for this species.

B. Man-made Resources and Human Uses

1. Land Uses

a. Existing Development and Public Facilities
This is a rural and generally isolated coastline area with
the San Antonio village itself as the primary center of develop--
ment- The secondary activity center is Hopwood Junior- High-
School, except when school is not in session. The area is
served by primary infrastructure; other major public facilities
are the elementary and junior high schools.
The reopening of the former White Sands Hotel (now the
Surf Hotel) win place additional wasteload from 46 rooms into
Saipan's southern wastewater system. This wasteload amounts
to approximately 9,200 gallons per day. This additional- waste
load will not tax the existing primary treatment plant; however
it will add to the pollution which occurs when sewage lift
Station "A-1" fails during power disruption.
Traffic activity is recently increased through San Antonio
due to the recent re-opening of the Surf Hotel and the in-
creased residential development of the Koblerville area. This
trend can be expected to continue.
Perhaps the "public facility" with the most potential for
development is the former U.S. Coast Grand Station property,
now under the management of the Marianas Public Land
Corporation. Both the existing structures as well as the large
size and ideal location of the property contributes to this site's
overall development potential.

b. Public Land Ownership and Access
Four parcels of public land exist in the Puntan-Afetna-
Planning Area. They are at the Hopwood Junior High-School.,
San Antonio Elementary School, former U.S. Coast Guard

VII-5

Puntan Afetna Planning Area

Station and the San Antonio sewage pumping station. Public
access to the beach is pos--dhlt- at all four sites.

c. Recreation Sites
.The ftMowing park and recreation facilities are found within
Planning Area VIE.

Table V31-1
RECREATION SITES AT PUNTAN AFETNA PLANNING AREA

Park or Recreation Existing
Area Facilities

Afetna Beach Picnic Shelter - 2
Park Picnic Tables - 3

d. Historic Sites
'@art of this beach is the s3be of the Amencan Invasion
duzing WWII. Saipan Invasion Beach has been designated a
National Histoxic Landmark.

e. Beach Erosion and Stormwave Redistribution
'No beach erosion or stormwave redistribution exist in this
Planning Area.

f. Stormwater Drainagg
No Ua-in-age culve carry stormwater discharge to the
Lagoon in this Planning Area.
1.i 1
2. Economic Resources

a. Subsistence Fishing and Gathering
'K moderate amount of subsistence fishing and gatheming
occurs in Planning Area VII. Talaya fishermen and people
harvesting clams utilize the shoreline and extensive seagrass
beds found in the near-shore zone. Coral development is good,
especially south of Puntan Afetna, and spearfishermen and
surround netters regularly harvest fish from the Lagoon and
reef flat areas.

b. Commercial and Sport Fishing FacUities
None in this area.

c. Ports and Shipping
*Rone in this area.

d. Tourism Indust:Fy
6ne touri@ facility exists here, the recently re-opened Surf
Hotel in San Antonio. It has 41 rooms, and a major expansion
is planned.

VIZ-6

Puntan Afetna Planning Area

Area Beach. The DEQ also has eight monitoring stations near
the Agingan Outfall. The following, locations had fecal coliform
content means exceeding 2001100 ml; 1001 south of outfall
(33,610); 600 ft. north of outfall (4,859); and 500 ft. offshore
of outfall (367).

3. On-Shore Resources

a. Rare, Threatened and Endangered Species
The Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mvdas) could be found
within the lagoon on occasion in this planning area but there is
no evidence that nesting has occurred on the beach areas. It
is possible that the endangered Nightengale Reed Warbler
(Acrocephalus luscinia) might be found within the vegetated
areas near Hol@w_ood High School and the former Coast Guard
Station. However, these areas would not be considered as
prime or critical habitat for this species.

B. Man-made Resources and Human Uses

1. Land Uses

a. Existing Development and Public Facilities
This is a rural and generally isolated coastline area with
the San Antonio village itself as the primary center of develop-
ment. The secondary activity center is Hopwood Junior High
School, except when school is not in session. The area is
served by primary infrastructure; 'other major public facilities
are the elementary and junior high schools.
The reopening of the former White Sands Hotel (n -ow -_ the
Surf Hotel) wil 'I place additional wasteload from 46 rooms into
Saipan's southern wastewater system. This wasteload amounts
to approximately 9,200 gallons per day. This additional waste
load will not tax the existing primary treatment plax@i; however
it will add to the pollution which occurs when --sewage lift
Station "A-1" fails during power disruption.
Traffic activity is recently increased through San Antonio
due to the recent re-opening of the Surf Hotel and the in-
creased residential development of the Koblerville area. This
trend can be expected to continue.
Perhaps the "public facility" with the most potential for
development is the former U.S. Coast Grand Station property,
now under the management of the Marianas Public Land
Corporation. Both the existing structures as well as the large
size and ideal location of the 'property contributes to this-site's
overall development potential.

b. Public Land Ownershi]2 and Access
Four parcels of public land exist in the Puntan Afetna
Planning Area. They are at the Hopwood Junior Hig@h- -Scl@0_0_1,_
San Antonio Elementary School, former U. S. Coast Guard
Station and the San Antonio sewage pumping station. - Public---
access to the beach is possible at all four sites.

VII-5

Puntan Afetna Planning Area

c. Recreation Sites
1he toilowing park and recreation facilities are found within
Planning Area VII.

Table VII-1
RECREATION SITES AT PUNTAN AFETNA PLANNING AREA

Park or Recreation Existing
Area Facilities

Afetna Beach Picnic Shelter 2
Park Picnic Tables 3

d. Historic Sites
P_@r_t of this beach is the site of the American Invasion
during WWII. In the opinion of the CNMI Historic Preservation
Officer, the Saipan Invasion Beach is eligible as a National
Historic Landmark.

e. Beach Erosion and Stormwave Redistribution
No beach erosion or stormwave redistribution exist in this
Planning Area.

f. Stormwater Drainage
No drainage culverts carry stormwater discharge to the
Lagoon in this Planning Area.

2. Economic Resources

a. Subsistence Fishing and Gathering
A moderaie amount _o7___s__ub_s__istence fishing and gathering
occurs in Planning Area VI.I. Talaya fishermen and people
harvesting clams utilize the shoreline and extensive seagrass
beds found in the near-shore zone. Coral development is good,
especially south of Puntan Afetna, and spearfishermen and
surround netters regularly harvest fish from the Lagoon and
reef flat areas.
b. Commercial and dport Fishing Facilities
ne in this area.

c. Ports and Shipping
-gone in this area.

d. Tourism Industry
One tourist facility exists *here, the recently re-opened Surf
Hotel in San Antonio. It has 41 rooms, and a major expansion
is planned.

VII-6

CH-APTE-R' Vll! - PROjECT AREAWIDE

A. Natural Resources

1. Currents
Saipan-ues in the belt of seasonal northeast trade winds. Its
narrow north end points obliquely into the north equatorial drift
current. The local currents run from north-northeast to south-
southeast on both sides of the island, and ordinarily southeast
through Saipan channel at the south end (Cloud, 1959). The
current system of the Saipan Lagoon is affected by the inflow of
water across the barrier reef, wind conditions, water depth and
location and size of channels, cuts and depressions in the reef.
Currents have been investigated at specific locations within the
Lagoon by Doty and Marsh (1977) and M & E Pacific (1980).
Current patterns are discussed in detail in the chapters dealing
with the seven Planning Areas.

2.. Tides
SUp-an's tides are mixed semidiurnal with two different high and
low tides during each day. Cloud (1959) states that the tidal range
averages 2 - 2.5 ft. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (1981)
gives the following information on tides for Saipan.
Feet
Mean Higher High Water, MHHW ___:r_79_0_ -
Mean High Water, MHW 1.85
Mean Tide Level, MTL 1.20
Mean Low Water, MLW 0.55
Mean Lower Low Water, MLLW 0.00

B. Man-made Resources and Human Uses

1. Land Uses and Infrastructure

a. Water Facilities

1. The Existing System
Due to the interdependent nature of Saipan's islandwide
water facilities, it is not practical to isolate production,
storage, treatment and distribution components. -The entire
system is described in the "Saipan Water System Study" "
prepared for the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana
Islands by GK2/Maguire Group.
The system which serves this PLAN'S project -area is
depicted in the following figures taken from the, "-Saipan
Water System Study."
Figure VIII-1 Puntan Magpi Planning Area;--
Figure VIII-2 Tanapag Harbor and Puntan Muchot
Planning Areas; and
Figure VIII-3 Garapan Lagoon, Puntan Susupeand-_-
Puntan Afetna Planning Areas.
The water system's demands and flows as of February
1982, are presented in Figure VIII-4. Of course, only the

VIII-1

8$1 C I
10 PSI C I
I P1. I

SIN ROQUE ACP
41 PSI
6it C1
40 PSI ACP
511 ACP I ACP
55 30 PS I
PS I

ker
45 PSI
6to C I
55 psi

CI
52 PSI

ACHUCAU
6 ACP SPRINGS
TAPIA PA 9 f
ICHUGAU
It RESERVOIR NOTES:
6 ACP 6 CI
50 PSI 45 PSI 1. DEVIATIONS IN LINE PRESSURES
to CI
6 ACP !5 PSI MONITORED ARE A RESULT OF
!3 PSI
511 ACP 5it C I WATER SERVICE HOUR VARIATIONS
5@' Psi 65 PSI
611 ACP TANAPAG 2. PRESSURES WERE MEASURED AT
63 PS I SPR 114GS AREA RESIDENCES USING A
6" ACP BOURBON TUBE PRESSURE GAUGE.
63 PSI TASA BOOSTER
LOWER PUMP
BASE
TASA RESERVOIR

TASA SYSTEM: DISTRIBUTIO N SCHE.MATIC
AND MEASURED H0LJSE SERVICE LINE
PRESSURES

0
r--, - ____ J 7j

PUERTO
RICO
MAUI TREATMENT
PLANT NETWELL

Figure viii-i

Puritan Magpi Planning Area
Water System.

Source: Saipan Water
System Study, 1982-

VII1-2

XPIA?k C RES --;YQ t A

FROM DONNI SPRINGS
MAUI TREATMENT AND AGAG WELLS
PLANT NETWELL
6"'A 30 PSI

6 2 PSI
42 PSI 2 PSI
r34 PSI PSI NOTES'
55 PSI a PSI
a PSI 1. DEVIATIONS IN LINE PRESSURES MONITORED
15 PSI ARE A RESULT OF WATER SERVICE
55 PSI PSI HOUR VARIATIONS.
57 PSI 45 PSI
37 PS I 2@ PRESSURES WERE MEASURED AT AREA
RESIDENCES US,ING A BOURDON TUEE
PRESSURE GAUGE.
It PSI
GARAPAN SYST04: DISTRIBUTION
SCHEMATIC 'AND MEASURED HCUSE SERVICE
51 PSI LINE PRESSURES
0
5 PSI
6PCAL, t I P M I

51 PSI

As PSI

-cc

io PSI

51 PSI
Let Flgxire VIII-2
2S PSI Tanapag Harbor and Puntan
23 PSI Muchot Planning Areas.Water
System.

CLOSED
YALYE Source: Saipan Water System
HOSPITAL Study, 1982.
RESiRYO IR

1! PSI

zo PSI

19 P IS I

33 PSI

2 PSI

C.2
@c

37 PS I

As PSI

U68 22 PSI

5z PSI

43 PS I
25 PSI
3 PSI NOTES*
1.40 PSI
Z9 PSI 49 PSI 2 PSI
Z3 Psi I DEVIATIONS IN LINE PRESSURES
3 PSI MONITORED ARE A RESULT OF
22 PSI is PSI WATER SERVICE HOUR.VARIATIONS-

a PSI
2. PRESSURES WERE MEASURED AT
AREA RESIDENCES USING A
BOURDON TUBE PRESSURE GAUGE.
is PSI 15 PSI

a PSI
11 PSI CHALAN KANOA: DISTRIBUTION
III PSI SCHEMATIC AND MEASURED HOUSE
is PSI 14 PSI SERVICE LINE PRESSURES
219 PSI is PSI
Is PSI 20 psi
IfI cl
PSI

is PSI

IN PSI
Z 27 PSI
Id, cl 23 PSI

24 PSI

14 PSI

ZI PSI

PSI

9 ISLEY RES. Figure VIII-3
10

17
Garapan Lagoon, Puntan Susupt
and Puntan Afetna Planning
uxul I g
Areas Water System.

Source: Saipan Water System
VIII-4 SLudy, L98-9.

Ilk,

COMPUTER COND I I I ON: EXISTING SYSTEM
SIMULMON
RUN NO.: 0
11 GE Ito SAN 35 (131
IN
PROPOSED EXPANSION I IN15 11. A?
0 OPEN VALVE
7
4D CLOSED VALVE CAPI10L
IIII.I.
CAPITOL HILL BE$ AGAG
PRESSURE IN I'So t--
M BE$
fLOWS-Im GPM to 4.r 1%
MAUI WELL
1AIMI, VIV.
PLAN[ 3
fINA
HOSPIIAL 94
A($

-;P IASA 1411APAO CALHOUN QUAL4
1AIiAPAO
AES RAI
qRINGS BE$ A(%

NAVY
HILL SUGAA
MIHA A IND
WILL[
145,112
SAN 660 go OLIA CHAtAN
IOQUI - - .1 -1 . < 222 300 PIAO
LO

IAHAPAII
LLJ (6-4) Ta I J 03)
IONIA GARAPAII KAHOA
62 DASE

FiqureW.11-4.Sai pan water Systell, I)e
Source. Saipan Water

Project Areawide

Table VIII-1

PROJECTED RESIDENTIAL EDUCATIONAL, COMMERCIAL
AND INDUSTRIAL WATER CONSUMPTION DEMANDS

PROJECTED DAILY AVERAGE
POPULATION DEMAND FLOW
SYSTEM YEAR 2000 (gal) (gpm)

Tanapag Residential 1,625 214,500 149

San Roque Residential 1,373 181,236 126

Garapan Residential 5,333- 703,956 489

Chalan Kanoa Residential 12,247 1,616,604 1,123

Total for Residential 21,557 2,716,296 1,887

Tanapag Elementary School 3,5 20

San Roque Elementary School 4,430

Department of Public Works 30,880

Department of Education 2,330

Community of Cultural Affairs 750

Coca Cola Bottling Plant 8,000

Concrete Batch Plant 80,500

Sablan Quarry Plant 8,000

Hafa Adai Hotel 73,920

Intercontinental Hotel 96,000

Hyatt Hotel 88,320

Arriola Laundromat (typical) 1,950

Personnel Office 1,240

Community and Cultural Affairs 750

VIII-6

Project Areawide

DAILY
DEMAND
SYSTEM (gal)

Saipan Community School 1,890

Garapan Elementary School 11,860

Headstart 6,840

Department of Revenue 830

Land and Survey 520

Public Health 1,400

Public Safety an6 Fire 1,020

Criminal Justice 150

Civic Center 1,940

As Perdido Ag. Station 710

Private Offices 2,680

Marianas High School 15,600

Hopwood Junior High School 14,600

San Antonio Elementary School 4,530

Chalan Kanoa Elementary School 12,920

Oleai Elementary School 7,930

Mt. Carmel School 15,950

Marianas Private School 3,590

Oleai Laundromat 1,950

Chalan Kanoa Laundromats (3) 5,850

Susupe Laundromat 1,950

San Antonio Laundromat 1,950

VIII-7

Project Areawide

DAILY
DEMAND
SYSTEM (gal)

Hotels 192,000

Industries 80,000

Offices/ Businesses 52,500

Total for Educational, Commerical
an d Industrial 841,750

VIII-8

Prcject Areawide

:@Ianrsls l.-Tier c-scticn, whJzh the Saipan Lagoon
coastline, is relevant for the the project. area's analysis.

2. Existing Plans for S2i2anls Water Facilities
The projected residential., educational, commercial and
industrial facilities water demands for the PLAN's project
area and coastline water service areas, as presented in the
"Saipan Water System Study," are presented in Table
Virr-1.
These projections presume that water leakage will be
reduced to acceptable amounts and that residential con-
sumption, in gallons per capita per day (gpcd) is:
110 gpcd usage
10 gpcd for leakage in household fixtures
10 gpcd fdr leakage in transmission lines and tanks
130 gpcd
Further assumptions fJor projecting the water con-
sumption demands are listed in Table V111-2.

Table V-111-2
ASSUMPTIONS FOR PROJECTING WATER CONSUMPTION DEMAND

1. Government cf5ces: The present government employee to
potal population ratio is approximately 11.5%. Historically, the
rati? of government employees to total popul-:edon rises; hence
..an increase to 12% is prcjected. Estimated water usage is--10.5
gallon per day per employee.
2. Elementary Schools: A 99.8% increase in the 0 to 14 age group
is projected. The same rate of increase was applied to the
present student population. Estimated water usage is 17.5
gallons per day per student.
3. Industries and Hospital: 50% of the rate of -total projected
population increase equating to a 47.4% employee irici@6ase is-
prcjected. Estimated water usage is 17.5 gallons per day per
employee.
4. The present usage for the Coca Cola Bottling Plant is-estimated
at 4,000 gallon per day. This usage is projected to doubl6@
(Defective meter, unable to ascertain present consumption.)
5. Hotels: A 20% increase in usage based on -bed capacity is.-
prajected.
6. Private Businesses: A 50% usage increase is projected-.---.---
7. Private Offfces: 50% of the rate of total projected population
increase (94.7%), equating to a 47.4% employee increase, ig-
projected. Estimated water usage is 10.5 gallons per employee
per day.
8. Senior and Junior High Schools: An increase of 97.8% was
projected for the 15 to 19 age group. The same rate increase
was applied W the present student population. Estimated water
usage is 10.5 gallons per day per student.
9. Laundromats: Increase of 50% based on Arriola Laundromat as a
typical unit of measurement.

VI31-9

Project Areawide

10. New Developments: Hotels, two with 200 room capacity, using
480 gallons per room per day. Industries, four major facilities
using 20,000 gpd. Office and businesses employing 5,000
persons using 10.5 gallons per day.
From: Saipan Water System Study, 1982.

Fire flow capacities are further calculated by population of
communities as presented in Table VIII-3:

TABLE VIII-3
FIRE FLOW CAPACITIES ARE FURTHER CALCULATED BY POPULATION

Community Fire Flow Duration
Population (gpm) (hr's)

1,000 1,000 4
1,500 1,500 6
3,000 1,750 7
5,000 2,250 9
10,000 3,000 10
20,000 4,350 10
40,000 6,000 10

These fire flows are generally necessary for business districts or
urban centers within the community. Recommended fire flows for resi-
dential areas are based on the population density and vary from 500 to
3,000 gpm. Table VIII-4 presents the resultant, estimated maximum
future flow rates.
The projected islandwide consumption for the year 2000 is 4.7 mgd.
Based on the February 1982 production level of 3.3 mgd, new pro-
duction sources must be explored. Also, repairs to the existing system
are necessary in order to reduce leakage and production costs and to
improve capacity.
Recommendations for improvements to the existing system are ex-
cerpted below, in Table VIII-5, from the "Saipan Water System Study."
Because the islandwide system was evaluated en toto and planned im-
provements reflect the interdependency of production sites, reservoirs,
treatment plants, and distribution lines, it is inappropriate to insulate
only those recommendations for upgrading the system which lie in the
PLAN'S project area. However, the improvements relating wholly or in
part to the Planning Areas are denoted with an asterisk.

VIII-10

Project Areawide

Table VIII-4

ESTIMATED MAXIMUM FUTURE FLOW RATES

SYSTEM ESTIMATED
MAXIMUM FLOW (gpm)*

Calhoun 1,100

Mihaville & Sugar King 600

Navy Hill 500

Capitol Hill 1,100

Tasa 1,800

Tanapag 11000

San Roque 800

Kobler Field 450

Garapan 2,000

Gualo Rai 550

Kagman 450

San Vicente 1,200

Isley/DanDan 600

Airport 1,000

Hospital 1,000

Chalan Kanoa 4,100

Includes Fire Flows

Source- Saipan Water System Study, 1982.

vni-11

Project Areawide

Table VIII-5
RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS TO THE SAIPAN WATER; SYSTEM

1. Repair leaks determined in field surveys:
- Valve along West Coast Highway in Garapan
System across from Mihaville
- Transmission lines from Donni Springs to
MTP/ww
- Transmission line from production wells to MTP/ww
- Valve below Capitol Hill Reservoir adjacent to 1200 block
housing
Leak at the base of Capitol Hill Reservoir
Transmission line from MTP/ww to Calhoun Reservoir
Estimated total construction cost = $1,392,000.
2. Repair or replace pumps operating below 60 percent of the manu-
facture's rating.
- Well No. 17 (Isley)
- Well No. 11 (Isley)
- Hospital Well
- Deep Well No. 3 (MTP)
- Agag Booster No. 1
Agag Well 72
Estimated total construction cost = $91,000.
3. The installation of new distribution lines is proposed for the
Calhoun system. These new lines would connect the Calhoun
Reservoir with the Navy Hill, Mihaville, and Sugar King Systems.
Pressure regulating valves (PRV's) would be installed' throughout
the system in order to reduce the pressure in the Sugar King and
Mihaville areas.
These three service areas (Navy Hill, Mihaville, and
Sugar King) would therefore be split into three separate
pressure zones. Navy Hill and Maturana Convent would be
serviced directly from the Calhoun Reservoir. Pressure
regulating valves would separately regulate the pressure to
the Mihaville and Sugar King area. These changes would
eliminate the water pressure problems presently experienced
in the distribution lines.
Estimated total construction cost = $288,000.
4. Repair or replace broken and inaccurate water meters and complete
installation of meters on all service lines. The high priority as-
signed to this item is based on the fact that meter readings can be
used to determine whether if leakage is occurring within or outside
the user residence. Also, proper billing for water consumption can
be initiated with accurate meters in place.
Estimated total construction cost = $621,000.
5. Replace deteriorated lines in the 1300 block housing area served by
the Capitol Hill System.
Estimated total construction cost = $427,000.
6. Replace various inoperative or malfunctioning gate valves through-
out the system. Very few valves of four inches and larger were
found to @e in proper working order and many contribute to the
leakage problems.
Estimated total construction cost = $700,000.

VIII-12

Project Areawide

7. Repair or replace pumps operating at between 60 to 80 percent of
the manufacturer's rating (Table 6, second column)-
- Well No. 9 (Isley)
- Well No. 10 (Isley)
Well No. I (Isley)
- Well No. 76 (Kagman)
Deep Well No. 2 (MTP)
- Deep Well No. 4 (MTP)
Also, provide needed improvements to Achugau Springs in order to
bring the facility back into operation. The extent of typhoon
damage will have to be assessed and repairs made accordingly.
Estimated total construction cost = $151,000.
8. Upgrade 18,700 feet of access roads to various wells and springs.
All access roads are poorly maintained coral roads. Upgrading and
continued maintenance of these roads is essential.
Estimated total construction cost = $1,047,000.
9. Replacement of various water supply lines throughout the system is
recommended. In order to reduce construction costs for total line
replacement, sections of the existing water lines could be salvaged.
Verification of the adequacy of existing water line sections would be
completed by the construction contractor as part of the line re-
placement contract. In this way, savings from- these distribution
system replacement costs can be achieved.
The areas recommended for pressure testing and/or pipeline re-
placement are listed below in order of priority. Costs reflect
worse-case situations, i.e. total line replacement.
a. The line along As Lito Road between Monsignor Guerrero
Highway and As Perdido Road. This line is a combination
of 6 inch, 4 inch and 2.5 inch pipes of various- materials.
Pressure testing is recommended since some portions, such
as the 6 inch line, may be acceptable for continued use.
Replacements shall be with 6 inch line.
Estimated total construction cost = $335,000.
b. Transmission lines from Donni Springs, Agag and Tasa
booster pumps. These lines were found to have low "C"
values and should be replaced to reduce power re-
quirements, thereby reducing power cost.
Estimated total construction cost = $709,000.
c. The 3 inch galvanized steel line along Beach Road and.-the 4____
inch galvanized steel line along Monsignor Guerrero Highway
in Chalan Kanoa. The small 3 inch line along Beach Road
has a high friction loss and, consequently, customers along
this line have low service pressures. Replace with new -6-.
inch line.
Estimated total construction cost = $257,000.
d. Other lines to be tested and possibly replaced are as
follows.
- The distribution line from the Calhoun Reservoir
servicing Navy Hill, MihavilIe and Sugar King.
- The 8 inch main along Beach Road servicing San-
Antonio.
- The 12 inch cast iron transmission line between the
Tanapag Reservoir and service area.

VIII-13

Project Areawide

The 8 inch cast iron line between Tasa Reservoir
and the MTP/ww.
The 6 inch cast iron line between Tasa Reservoir
and the villages of Tanapag and San Roque.
The 4 inch cast iron distribution line in Lower
Base.
The 6 inch cast iron transmission lines in San
Vicente.
The 10 inch cast iron transmission line on As
Perdido Road.
The 12 and 14 inch cast iron transmission line in
Chalan Kanoa.
The 18 inch cast iron transmission line between
Isley reservoir and Chalan Kanoa.
Estimated total construction cost = $2,442,000.

The islandwide water system needs expansion as well as re-
pairs. New production resources and new water storage facilities
are enumerated in the "Saipan Water System Study"; however, none
are recommended for site specific placement within the PLAN'S pro-.
ject area.

3. Problems Associated with the Water System
The following water system problems have a direct impact
on Lagoon and shoreline.uses of the PLAN'S Project Area.
The high chloride content (500 ppm) adversely affects
the taste and palatability of the drinking water. With
the recommended improvements of the 'Saipan Water
System Study," however, the chloride content is ex-
pected to be lowered to an acceptable amount.
Limited hours of water service restrain new development
and restricts existing commercial and tourism establish-
ment from reaching their full economic potential.
Furthermore, the interruption of water pressure allows
infiltration from groundwater into the potable water
system and increases the risk of contamination. Again,
the full development of Saipan water resources, in-
cluding production, storage, treatment and transmission
as recommended in the "Saipan Water System Study",
will restore full service to the island.
Assumption #10 for projecting water consumption demand
(see Table VIII-2) projects that two additional hotels at
200 rooms each will be accommodated by the 1982 Saipan
Water System Facilities Plan. However, Table VIII-15
(this chapter) forecasts that 992 rooms will be con-
structed by - 1988. This indicates a need to re-size the
water system planned in the 1982 plan so that it ac-
curately reflects current planning data.

b. Wastewater Facilities
Because tFie FLA-NIS on-shore project area represents the
majority of Saipan's developed area, it is understandable that the
majority of the island's wastewater system is located within this
ecological zone.

VIII-14

Project Areawide

Sainan's wastew-ater facilities are di-ided into two svqtems,:
The central system, serving Capital Hill, TInapag
industrial area, Navy Hill and Garapan (represented by
the Tanapag Harbor and Puntan Muchot Planning Areas)
The southern system, serving San Vicente, San Jose,
Susupe, Chalan Kanoa and San Antonio (represented by
the Puntan Susupe and Puntan Afetna Planning Areas)
Both systems, along with their pump stations, interceptors,
treatment plants and outfalls, are depicted in Figure VIII-5.

1. Central Wastewater System
The Central Wastewater System consists of collection and in-
terceptor lines, seven pump stations, the Garapan Wastewater
Treatment Plant and an outfall at Charlie Dock in Tanapag
Harbor. The system is divided into a northern portion which
receives flows from Navy Hill and the Tanapag industrial area
and the southern portion which receives flows from the Garapan
industrial and commercial areas. -Both portions lead to the
wastewater treatment plant, east of the Port, across Beach Road
(Figure VIII-6).
The treatment plant has a capacity of 3 mgd (. 6 mgd peak
flow) and provides primary treatment. The plant does not have
a flow metering device. The wastewater effluent discharges
through a 121 diameter outfall pipe mid-way between Baker
Dock and Charlie Dock. There it lies in a westerly direction on
the Harbor bottom for approximately 1200 feet. Then the out-
fall reduces to an 811 diameter diffuser pipeline which is 50 feet
long, with a 611 diameter port on each end of the 50 feet long
diffuser. The diffuser end has been damaged for some time
now. The outfall is fractured at a point about 9001 from the
shoreline. The Garapan outfall is depicted in Figure VIII-7.
This problem is being addressed by the Government's
"Assessment of Wastewater Facilities Project" and a solution will
be recommended.
The Central System residential sewer service connections,
as of June 1984, are presented in Table VIII-6. Historical and
1984 residential and hotel room connections are presented in
Table VIII-7. Average sewage flows from 1977, 1984 and pro-
jected for 1991 and 1998 are depicted in Table VIII-8. Newly
projected wastewater flows for the Central System are being de-
veloped for the Department of Public Works through the "Saipan
Wastewater Facilities Plan Update,n available in early 1985.

2. Southern Wastewater System
The Sout n Wastewater System consists of collection and
interceptor lines, 15 pump stations, Agingan Wastewater Treat-
ment Plant and an outfall on the coastline at Agingan Point.
This collection system begins at the Joeten housing area and
flows westward along Chalan Pale Arnold to San Jose. The
main portion of the system, aided by eight pump stations, fol-
lows Beach Road to the Agingan Plant (Figure VIII-8).
The Agingan Wastewater Treatment Plant has a capacity of
1.0 mgd and provides for primary treatment. The effluent is

VIII-15

MI .440A
ILIV 940
LEGEND

EXISTING

EXISTING
0
STATION

"I AC.UGAU PROPOSED

PROPOS ED
PLANT
SAN ROQUE
EFFLUENT DISPOSAL' PROPOSED
LINE a OUTFALLI:@@ STATION
11 aIT
T "IL, of S
cj@- ego INDIVIDUAL
SYSTEM SE
PAIS

EXISTING STP 8 OUTFALL
(TO BE ABANDONED)

NAVY
HILL
YJ )GANAPAN GOL IF
COU419
cop, A.1
0@ 0 OLFAI

MANAGAMA

*vc"Q0 pt
-0111 519

,at

Figure VIII-5. 'Central and Southern Sewerage System.
.1 _4

CENTRAL COASTAL SEWERAGE SYSTEM SOUTHERN SEWERA

Apt"... .2

'%t tis

.4e,

es j ar
azi
4
S-3 GARAPAN WWTP-:

i-A 2

S
LEGEND

PUMP STATION-

WASTEWATER TREATMENI

PLANT
5_9
INTERCEPTOR SEWER

OUTFALL

1P
V.

. . . ............

Figure VIII-6. Central Sewerage. System; Existing Facilities
Source: Assessment of-Ex1sting Wastewater
Facilities, Interim Report, 1984.

OPEN OPEN

so PVC PIPE OCEAN FLOOR 61 PVC PIPE

120x8a REDUCER

PLUGGED END

120 CAST IRON PIPE go CAST 111014 PIPE

OUTFALL SECTION

1,200' TO SHORE LINE

3000-350'

SEALEVEL

OCEAN FLOOR

I:e C-L PWIEW

SEE OUTFALLSIMCTIOM

SECTION

Figure VIII-7.* Garap"'an Outfall Pian.
Source: Assessment of ExistingWastewater
Facilities, Interim Report, 1984.
x
-, 4 ::7@E

VIII-18

Project Areawide

Table VIII-6

CENTRAL SYSTEM RESIDENTIAL SEWER SERVICE CONNECTIONS

Number of Number of Homes Percent
Homes Connected Connected

Capital Hill 130 130 100

Navy Hill 40 40 100

Lower Base 3 3 100

Garapan 678 137 16

Subtotal Central System 851 330 39

Source: Assessment of Existing Wastewater Facilities, Interim Report, 1984.

Table VIII-7

CENTRAL SYSTEM NUMBER AND TYPE OF WASTEWATER CONNECTION-S

1977 (1) 1984 (2)

Number of Residential
Connections 187 330

Total Number of
Residences 540 851

Number of Percentage of
Residences Connected 35 39

Number of Hotel Rooms 504 504@

(1) From "1979 Facilities Plan."
(2) Based on flow analysis performed in June of 1984.

Source: Assessment of Existing Wastewater Facilities, Interim Report, 1984

VIII-19

Project Areawide

Table VIII-8

WASTEWATER FLOWS, CENTRAL SYSTEM

Average Flow in MGD Per Year

1977 (1) 1984 (2) 1991 1998

Residential Wastewater Flow 0.10 0.17 0.60 0.85

Hotel and Commercial Flow 0.04 0.24 0.60 1.20

Infiltration 0.30 0.12 0.20 0.30

Total Wastewater Flow, MGD
Central System 0.44 0.53 1.40 2.35

(1) From n1979 Facilities Plan."
(2) Based on flow analysis performed in June of 1984.

Source: Assessment of Existing Wastewater Facilities, Interim Report, 1984.

VIII-20

4
W-6

A-7'.

@V-e

4;@-?
Ci
A-6

C.
A-5
01

C rItA
A-10 A@

7
7

POO
a rl

LEGEND

PUMP STATION

WASTEWATER TREATMENT

PLANT
10,

INTERCEPT
OR SEWER

OUTFALL
Z. 0

A-1 Figure VIII-8

:'SOUTHERN SEWERA:d
GINGAN WWTP
.4
SYSTEM

[STING-FXCMJTllE-S---
SoUrCe: Assessment of Wastewater Facilities
VIII-21

Project Areawide

discharged at the ocean's edge in 10 feet deep water throug h a
12" diameter outfall (Figure V '111-9). One end of the diffuser is
plugged and reserved for a future outfall extension.
The Southern System residential sewer service connections,
as of June 1984, are presented in Table VIII-9. Historical and
1984 residential and hotel room sewer connections are presented
in Table VIII-10. Average sewage flows from 1977, 1984 and
projected for 1991 and 1998 are depicted in Table VIII-11.
Newly projected wastewater flows for the Southern System are
being developed for the Department of Public Works through the
"Saipan Wastewater Facilities Plan Update," available in early
1985.

3. Existing Plans for Saipan's Wastewater Facilities
The June 1979 "Facilities Plan for the island of Saipan" now
serves as the island's master plan for sewage infrastructure.
The plan was prepared for the Department of Public Works by
M&E Pacific, Inc. The plan is now being updated for the
Department of Public Works by Barrett, Harris and Associates,
Inc.
The following description of proposed facilities is taken,
verbatim, from the 1979 plan. In summary, the recommended
system consists of implementing the following four actions:
- Expanding and/or replacing portions of the existing
sewage collection and transmission system.
- Constructing two new sewage treatment facilities to
provide secondary treatment to incoming sewage flows.
Constructing an ocean outfall for the Tanapag treatment
facility and extending the existing outfall at Agingan
Point.
Constructing individual on-site disposal systems in
areas that have been zoned as agricultural or rural-
residential.
The proposed sewerage systems are designed to serve the
northern and southern districts independently. Each system
essentially involves the construction of new sewer lines and
pump stations designed to accommodate projected sewage flows
for a 20-year design period.
The proposed secondary treatment action calls for the con-
struction of two treatment facilities, each rated at 2.3 mgd.
The practice of disposing digested-dewatered sludge at a san-
itary landfill is proposed. As an interim measure, a proposed
less -than- secondary treatment system (primary treatment
facility) is recommended.
The recommendation of implementing a primary treatment
facility as an interim measure is based on the following reasons:
- Cost factors, both capital and operational, favor pri-
mary treatment.
- Operational expertise is less stringent for a primary
treatment facility.
- Public Law 95-217 permits a waiver to the secondary
treatment requirement for discharges from publicly

VIII-22

OPEN THIS END CONCRETE -7

120 CAST IRON PIPE

8' STAINLESS

TEEL PIPE

A A
tUGGED END 0 z IJc@

PLAN 0 LIMESTONZ
OUTFALL DIFFUSER

SEA LEVM

APPROX.SLOPE

120 CAST IRON PIPE

.400'

CONCRETE

INV.: -10.0 t MEAN HIGH WATER DATUM
/SACKS FILLED W/CEMENT & SAND MIX

SECTION

Figure vIii-9. AGINGAN OUTFALL PLAN
S
1VC

Source: Assessment of Existing Wastewater
Facilities, Interim Report, 1984.

VIII-23

Project Areawide

Table VIII-9

SOUTHERN SYSTEM RESIDENTIAL SEWER SERVICE CONNECTIONS

Number of Number of Homes Percent
Homes Connected Connected

San Antonio 319 35 11

Chalan Kano-a 585 159 27

Susupe 171 41 24

San Jose 299 23

Hospital 72 72 100

Subtotal Southern System 1446 330 23

Source: Assessment of Existing Wastewater Facilities, Interim Report, 1984.

Table VIII-10

NUMBER AND TYPE OF WASTEWATER CONNECTIONS FOR THE SOUTHERN SYSTEM

1977 (1) 1984 (2)

Number of Residential Connections @1 330

Total Number of Residences 1580 1446

Number of Percentage of Total
Residences Connected 6 23

Number of Hotel Rooms 60 202

(1) From 01979 Facilities Plan."
(2) Based on flow analysis performed in June of 1984.
Source: Assessment of Existing Wastewater Facilities, interim Report, 1984.

VIII-24

Project Areawide

Table VIII-11

WASTEWATER FLOWS FOR THE SOUTHERN SYSTEM

Average Flow In MGD Per Year

1977 (1) 1984 (2) 1991 1998

Residential Wastewater Flow 0.04 0.14 0.72 1.17

Hotel and Commercial Flow 0.04 0.20 0.28 0.35

Infiltration 0.21 0.22 0.20 0.20

Total Wastewater Flow
Southern System 0.200 0.57 1.20. 1.72

(1) From "1979 Facilities Plan."
(2) Based on flow analysis performed in June of 1984.

Source: Assessment of Existing Wastewater Facilities, Interim Report, 198.4.

VIII-25

Project Areawide

owned treatment works that discharge into marine
waters. Several sections oi this recent amendment,
however, require clarification, . and the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency is currently in the
process of formulating specific guidelines and pro-
cedures for waivers.
This action is not irreversible. The proposed, primary
treatment facility can be upgraded in the future to meet
secondary treatment requirements.
The impact of effluent from the primary treatment
facility on the marine environment is not insignificant.

4. Problems Associated with the Wastewater System
The following Wastewater System problems have a direct im-
pact on the Lagoon and Shoreline uses of this Plan's Project
Area.
Most of the facilities are now 12 years old and, because
of practically no repair and maintenance, breakdowns
are frequent. Unreliable sewer service is a constraint
to any developing region. The absence of a repair or
maintenance program has been recently noted by the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in its April 15,
1984 NPDES Compliance Monitoring Report.*--
In June 1984 an investigating team of Barrett, Harris
and Associates confirmed that the Garapan outfall is
broken at a depth of 42 feet and effluent discharges at
that point.
South of San Antonio, along the Lagoon's final stretch
of coastline before Agingan Point, the beach is fre-
quently polluted with sewage. The cause of this pro-
blem is suspected as overflow from the nearby "A-1"
pump station when electrical power is interrupted. A
standby generator is not always available during power
outages. When the wet well fills without being pumped,-
sewage overflows through a bypass pipeline, to the
beach. This problem is under investigation by the
Commonwealth Government as part of its "Assessment of
Existing Wastewater Facilities" project, and a recom-
mendation for correcting the situation will be developed.
In Table VIII-8 and VUI-11 wastewater projections for
Saipan's central and southern wastewater systems were
extrapolated from the 1977 Wastewater Facilities Plan.
Additionally, 1984 wastewater flows are presented from
the 1984 Interim Study of Saipan's Wastewater Facilities.
Both the 1977 projections (through 1998) and the 1984
estimates are plotted on Tables VIII-12 and VIII-13 for
the central and southern systems, respectively. These
plottings reveal that total wastewater flows for both
systems are well under projections; however, while the
hotel/ commercial wastewater flow has kept pace with the
central system projections, it already exceeds the
southern system projections.

VIII-26

Z-4

2,0-

0
1991 1190
Z) @Tr--

Ile4- IMT-r-PM 4-TuPy

VIII-27

2.0-

95 P MA7, r-- P19

f;@;p "Trap

WAC-TF-@@TFB;z
0 (11-77)
M91

l;OUTHr--W 446TA4&TE@R
5 n

VITI-28

Project Areawide

In projecting future wasteloads on both systems as a
result oi resort development (only) within the project
area, Table VIII-15 indicates that 992 new rooms are
proposed for construction along the Saipan Lagoon
shoreline area by 1988. Based on an average of double
occupancy and 100 gallons per guest per day, this pro-
jected construction will contribute approximately .2 mgd
to the wastewater flow. This additional wasteload from,
hotels will be more or less balanced between the central
system's service area, (covering the Puntan Magpi,
Tanapag Harbor and Puntan Muchot Planning Areas)
and the southern system's service area (covering the
Garapan Lagoon, Puntan Susupe and Puntan Agingan
Planning Areas). Therefore, each system can expect to
handle about half of the total projected wastewater, or
an additional .1 mgd by 1988. Of course, these pro-
jections do not reflect wastewater generated from other
tourist support and commercial businesses.
Based on this analysis, therefore, the 1977 projections
established for the southern wastewater system fall
short of those which more current wastewater planning
data now indicate. The wastewater flow projections for
'the. central system fairly reflect available data at this
time. However, those projections should continue to be
monitored closely.

c. Beach Road
March 19V4 traffic count statistics are presented in Figure
VIII-10 for Beach Road.

2. Water Quality Management
The Division of Environmental Quality within the Department of
Public Health and Environmental Services is directed through
provisions of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1972 (Public
Law 95-217), and its Amendments, to establish a water quality
management program for the protection, maintenance, conservation
and improvement of water quality in the CNMI. This program is
established to protect the growth and propagation of aquatic life in
all State or Territorial waters. In response to this direction the
Commonwealth Environmental Protection Act (Public Law 3-23) was
enacted in 1982 to ... "develop and administer a program to collect
and to cause to be collected, information regarding the quality of
the environment of the Commonwealth." Water quality standards
were first promulgated as a part of this program in 1983. The
explicit purpose of these standards was to establish standards of
water quality for all Commonwealth waters to protect their use and
value. Groundwaters were excluded from these standards.
A water quality monitoring program has been on-going since
1983. Twenty seven (27) points are regularly sampled in nearshore
(Saipan) waters within the Saipan Lagoon (SLUMP Planning Area).
In addition to these points twenty five points in knee deep water
and twelve (12Y points approximately 150 ft. off-shore surrounding
Managaha Island are regularly sampled. Other points around Saipan
are sampled irregularly or when specific problems exist.

VIII-29

.41 L

of=

M ,-@@o

IOT

V, - cw Hb, L,6,N -
tA 15Z,17 @*
.0*'6-INO@
670

1-2, awa

N 0 T47N 10

S+ HOUF; F55FIC;7. IIIAgr-4 119

VIII-30

Project Areawide

The monitoring program samples for biological, physical and
chemical characteristics of water quality. Of primary importance is
the presence of fecal coliforms which suggest the presence of a
human pathogen. Sampling for fecal coliforms is particularly im-
portant in nearby recreational waters near known sources like sewer
treatment plant effluent outfalls or storm drainage ditches. A
number of physical parameters are analyzed regularly in the moni-
toring program. These include: Suspended Solids and Turbidity.
Temperature is maintained occasionally particularly in the vicinity of
the Tanapag Power Plant. Chemical parameters include: Biological
Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chlorine, Salinity, Dissolved Oxygen and
pH. In early 1985, the Division of Environmental Quality developed a
proposal to expand the existing Water Quality Monitoring Program in
the CNMI to "more effectively understand the environmental impacts
of the activities of man upon the valuable water resources of the
Commonwealth." This comprehensive proposal is divided into three
parts: An Introduction which identifies the various activities which
may cause pollution i he CNMI; Part I defines a StrategX hich dif-
ferentiates between monitoring for land based causes of pollution
and sources of pollutants resulting from nearshore and offshore
activities, the methodology and implementation procedures; Part II
is a Scope of Work which defines the 'Sampling Locations in terms of
the specific parameters to be analyzed and sFe-cific resources re-
quired to accomplish the program objectives. Following is a brief
description of each part.

a. Introduction
The introduction defines the general physical structure of
the islands and paints a realistic picture of -natural phenomena
and human activities that pose environmental problems in the
CNMI.
The introductory remarks define in general terms the
physical characteristics of the various islands, reef structure,
presence of off-shore islands, lagoons and beaches. The level
of human development, existing and proposed, is detailed for.
each island. Both local and federal government planning
programs are defined and important studies either completed,
on-going or proposed are identified. Major public facilities like
the power plant, sewer treatment plants and the dump are
identified and evaluated in terms of their impact on the
environment. Nearshore and off-shore recreational facilities in
the lagoon are briefly defined in this section.

b. Strategy
The- existing DEQ marine monitoring strategy consists
primarily of sampling for fecal coliform contamination and other
physical and chemical parameters within specific marine waters.
The program is designed to monitor for microbiological
pathogens in areas of heavy human impact. The DEQ proposes
to expand the marine monitoring program as part of-- their
continuing effort to protect the Commonwealth's valuable coastal

VIII-31

Project Areawide

marine resources. In addition to the 27 original nearshore
monitoring stations, four others have been identified. These
include the Puerto Rico and Agingan Point Sewage Treatment
Plant outfalls, Puerto Rico Dump and the Mobil facility
Samples have been taken regularly from the sewage treatmen;
plant outfalls, however, these sites were not sited in the
original monitoring strategy since they were not operational or
built at that time. Identification of environmental pollution near
sewage outfalls and the nearshore zone in the village of San
Roque north to Marpi is to continue in the new monitoring
strategy. Discontinued sampling points will be those that
undergo temporal variations in concentrations.
The intent of the new monitoring strategy is to observe and
define the general health of the benthic community and detect
purturbations which suggest the presence of environmental
pollution. If abnormal conditions suggest pollution, ' then
specific studies will be designed to determine the cause of the
problem.
The monitoring strategy is structured in two parts. The
first part will deal with land. based or coastline development
activities which have the potential to degrade the marine
environment. These include the sewage treatment plant
outfalls, Puerto Rico Dump, flood control projects, proposed
hotel complexes and land clearing activities that impact on the
marine environment. The second part will monitor for the
effects of water based activities. These activities include
dredging in the marine environment, the transfer of oil and fuel
from ship to ship or ship to land, general shipping in the
lagoon or other water oriented activities.
Implementation of the revised marine biological monitoring
program does have its problems. Of primary concern is
distinguishing between biological changes induced by man's
activities and those changes from naturally occurring
purturbations. Ambient baseline data forms the backbone upon
which to base these determinations. These data have been
collected for nearly two years and are being filed in STORET
with the US EPA. In some instances it will take several years
to establish meaningful baseline data to predict purturbations.
Apart from this problem, biological monitoring can be used
to track long-term changes in the marine ecosystem in three
ways.

1. By detecting changes within pristine areas of the
benthic community over time.
2. By detecting changes over time at specific locations in
the biological community where stress is suspected to
have occurred as a result of known pollution.
3. By determining if the biological community is returning
to its predisturbed state in areas of past pollution or if
succession is being retarded by residual or persistent
pollution.

VIII-32

Project Areawide

The data base upon which to make these evaluations will take
piace on specific Indicator organisms (particulariy sessfie
invertebrates like hermaty
pic corals).

c. Methodology
T-he DEQ marine monitoring program is charged with the
responsibility of determining the best possible monitoring
-methodology in order to achieve the desired degree of results.
The methods chosen in this new monitoring strategy include
some from the old strategy and new methods as well.
Sampling for Total and Fecal Coliform Bacteria will continue
in the new program. Samples will be taken at existing sampling
stations and new sites as well to identify unreasonable risk to
the public's health in areas where water contact sports and
recreation occur. Sampling for physical and chemical
parameters defined earlier will continue in the new program.
Added as a part of the new program will be the analysis of-
heavy metals, pesticides and radioisotopes. Most likely these
new samples will be sent off-island for analysis.
Five new sampling methodologies have been added to the
new monitoring strategy. These include aerial surveys, current
studies, transect studies, zooplankton studies and sampling for
petroleum products.

d. Implementation
The proposal suggests that the marine monitoring program
will be implemented by mid-FY 1985'. The program will require
a gearing up period which will take most of 1985. This work
will include the establishment of permanent transects and other
fixed monitoring stations, procurement of equipment and
creation of a computer filing program to handle data.

e. Samj2ling cations
gampling locations defined in the old monitoring strategy
will remain. New sampling locations are divided into land and
water based sites and particular monitoring parameters are
given.

f. Monitoring for Land-Based Activities
Ln 1. Location: Island Wide
Parameter: Microbiological Sampling
A Time Framet Monthly

2. Location z Island Wide
Parameter: Aerial Survey
Time Frame- One initial survey

3. Location: Agingan Sewer Outfall
Parameter: Current Studies
Time Frame. Three Months
Parameter: Biological Studies
Time Frame: Biannual

VIII-33

Project Areawide

4. Location: Puerto Rico Sewer Outfall
Parameter: Current Studies
Time Frame: Three Months
Parameter: Biological Studies
Time Frame: Biannual

5. Location: Puerto Rico@ Dump
Parameter: Current Studies
Time Frame: Three Months
Parameter: Heavy Metals, Pesticides, Radioisotopes
Time Frame: Annual or as-needed
Parameter: Biological Sampling
Time Frame: Biannual

6. Location: Managaha Island
Parameter: Current Studies
Time Frame: Three months
Parameter: Biological Studies
Time Frame: Biannual and intermittent
reconnaissance -

g. Monitoring for Ocean Based Activ ities
1. Location: Mobil Oil Facility
Parameter: Current Studies
Time Frame: Three months
Parameter: Petroleum Studies
Time Frame: Biannual with periodic inspections
during offloading activities

h. Monitoring for Special Projects
There are a number of special projects which can affect the
environment and should be monitored. These projects involve
major sitings as identified by the CRMO and presently include
the following. Various forms of monitoring will take place in
regards to these projects and actual parameters will not be
defined until the projects are well defined by the developers.

1. Japan Airlines Hotel in San Roque
2. Garapan and Susupi Flood Control Projects
3. Channel and Dockside Dredging
4. Small Boat Basin Construction at Lower Base

i. Fiscal and Personal Resource Requirements
Personnel resources required to initialize and continue this
new monitoring program are defined in terms of tasks in the
field and in the laboratory for each of the target sampling
locations.
Fiscal budgetary requirements for the program are divided
between the CRMO and DEQ as follows.

1. Eqj@2ment
GRM0 =$7,347.76
DEQ $3,150.00

VIU-34

Project Areawide

2. Other (DEQ)
G.L.L Island Analysis = -P 1,500
Diving certification = $ 400
Communication,
Travel $ 500
Maintenance $ 250

3. Energy Resources
Saipan's energy resources are discussed in this chapter in
three respects. First, the current world energy picture is
reviewed to provide a background, secondly, Saipan's energy
supply status and finally, alternative sources of energy available to
SaipbLn and the CNMI are discussed as a preface to the various
energy-related siting criteria which are presented in Volume IL

a. World Energy Sapa
The world energy supply picture for the remainder of this
century is clouded. There is no clearly defined energy policy
or a consensus on what fuel will be the "swing fuel" for
,supplying the major portion of projected supply deficits. In
fact, the world energy picture, historically, has always been
clouded with shifts between various fuels as primary energy
sources depending on need, technology and available resources.
The newest aspect is an increased- 'emphasis on centralized
long-range planning which focuses unprecedented attention on
the central role of energy supply in our society.
On' the world energy scene, it is likely that demand will
continue to rise. The exponential growth experienced in this-
century alone in terms of metric tons of coal equivalent (tce)
has exceeded the rate of population increase by a large margin.
It is now clear that even if the world population is stabilized at
10 to 15 billion in the early part of the twenty-first century,
our present energy output must more than double just to stay
even with population growth. It is not guaranteed that
population will stabilize at any level, and staying even with
demand may not be good enough.
The relationship between per capita energy consumption and
standard of living has been repeatedly demonstrated. The
standard of living is measured here in terms of gross domestic
product, probably the best indicator now available for
expressing the ability of a society to provide for its tangible
needs and desires. In order for developing countries to realize
a level of prosperity comparable to that now enjoyed by the
world's major, western industrialized nations, average world
energy use per capita would have to increase by a fattdr-6f
more than four. Couple this with a projected increase in
population for the balance of this century and it would require
an increase in world energy production by one order of
magnitude (a factor of almost ten).
During the period 1860 to 1960, overall world energy
production did increase by one order of magnitude (Economy
-1983). While this performance is probably not repeatable, the

VIII-35

Project Areawide

changing pattern of primary energy supply sources during this
period provides a lesson for the future.
In 1860, wood accounted for the largest fraction (about 50
percent) of the world's energy consumption. By 1900,
bituminous coal production had increased by a factor of four
and took over the largest share of the market. Oil accounted
for nearly 8 percent of the total at the time. Between 1900 and
1930, oil production increased by a factor of seven, taking over
nearly 20 percent of the market while coal and lignite retained
the lead positions. By 1960, oil had just surpassed coal and
occupied the position of largest single supply source, where it
remains today by even a larger margin.
During this period, these three energy sources held lead
positions for energy production. From the stand point of an
energy analyst living in 1900, the question of identifying a
single "fuel for the futuren must have been as puzzling then
and, in retrospect, as meaningless as it does to us today. The
only clear picture regarding world energy production is that
the issue is still complex and likely to remain so, with different
fuels occupying lead positions according to the situation of the
moment.
The world's total non-renewable energy resource base
consists primarily of coal, unless nuclear breeder reactor
technology were to continue to develop at pre-1980 rate, which
does not appear likely. Crude oil, which now accounts for the
largest single factor in the world's energy supply, is only 15
percent of proven and currently recoverable reserves. This is
equivalent to 3 percent of total remaining recoverable
resources, assuming pre-1980 commercialization of breeder
reactors. A switch from oil to more abundant non-renewable
fuels will be necessary in the near future. However, if such a
switch is, indeed, inevitable there is no time for complacency.
In one major respect, the present situation differs markedly
from that confronting the analyst living in 1900. We are now
using non-renewable energy at a rate which is appreciable
compared to total resources. The year in which the world's
remaining fossil fuel reserve /production ratio drops to ten years
ranges somewhere between 2005 to 2130, depending on the
annual rate of growth in energy use, whether the calculations
are based solely on proven resources or on total recoverable
resources and the extent to which non-fossil fuel technologies
are developed. Note that the growth rate in this century has
been about 5.1 percent per year and in order to achieve the
factor-of-ten increase by the end of this century (that would
be required to bring the world's entire projected population up
to the standard of living now enjoyed by citizens of western
industrial countries), a growth rate of 10-12 percent per year
would be required.
Like most industrial countries, the U.S. now depends
primarily on fossil fuels and utilizes its energy mostly in the
form of heat.

VIII-36

Project Areawide

Remainimq recoverable world oil resources anpear to be
concentrated in the Middle East, with significant other
resources found in the U.S., Africa and the U.S.S.R. It is
believed that the average ultimate recovery of oil-in-place may
reach 40 percent. If 60 percent were attainable, recoverable
resources would increase by 50 percent. Middle Eastern
countries possess about half the world's proven resources of
crude oil as is graphically evident when a map of the world is
distorted to reflect percentage of reserves. World crude oil
production has been increasing dramatically in recent decades,
exceeding 30 'billion barrels in 1980. Due to limitations in the
total resources projected, total world oil production cycles are
extremely rapid. Production will peak-out just before the turn
of the century at approximately 70 million barrels per day.
It is clear that in the long term a switch must eventually be
made away from non-renewable energy sources (such as fossil
fuel) and to renewable sources, most of which are derived from
solar energy in one form or another or from nuclear fusion.

b. Saipan's Energy SuJ2J21Y
The SAIPAN LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT PLAN represents a
gomprehensive planning effort to not only identify resources,
facilities and activities and other uses affected by the PLAN
Area, but also to plan for their efficient use in the future.
Numerous resources exist in the Lagoon as identified in Volume
1. Some of these resources, like fish and other edible marine
life, have been utilized for centuries by the inhabitants of
these islands. A few resources like sand mining or coral
harvesting have been there for the taking all along, but they
were only recently exploited because of commercial expansion,
mostly related to tourism. Numerous resources that are
presently found in the Saipan Lagoon are not properly managed
and will suffer degradation if left unchecked. Because -the--
population of Saipan has always been small, except during the
war, resource degradation has not yet been a significant
problem. However, with the advent of expanded tourism
industry and its subsequent rapid growth, there is an
important need to not only identify and develop resources but
to protect and conserve them as well. Only within the-past--
eight years has there been any real attempt to regulate,
monitor and manage the resources that exist in or within the
vicinity of the Saipan Lagoon.
One particular resource yet to be studied and developed in
the Saipan Lagoon is related to energy production. As we
know it, Saipan and most other isolated islands have relied on
conventional oil for power generation stations. Saipan, like
many other similar islands, has built these generating facilities
near to their seaports for logistical reasons.
This section of the PLAN describes alternate energy
facilities and activities which exist or have the potential to exist
in the PLAN area. These alternatives include a description of
existing -facilities (oil) and potential alternate forms such as
coal, biomass, tidal current and solar salt-gradient ponds.

VIII-37

Prcject Areavide

c. Present Energy Stekus in the CNMI
The principal energy source in the CNMI are a number of
petroleum products. About 20% of the imported fuel is gascline
and mostly for automobiles and other forms of transportation
like boats. More than half is Residual Fuel oil (RFO.6) used
for power generation.
There is 36 MW operating capacity Saipan and standby
capacity amounts to 3 MW. A new 7.2 MW permanent unit was
added to the old 28.8 MW unit and went on-line in 1983.
The 33 MW "Impedance" was returned to the United States
Army Corps of Engineers in 1983. The large Saipan System
operates on RFO but uses diesel for start-up. The new
standby generator is considered to be more reliable and fuel ef-
ficient than older units acquired between 1968 - 1971. The
electrical generating equipment on Saipan As reasonably new,
and standby capacity barely meets current energy demand.
Maximum peak load and base load for Saipan in 1981 was 15.4
and 11.6 MW respectively.
For eight years until September 1, 1976 an electrical rate of
$.03/KWH was chahged for all consumers. Since then,
is charged on a sliding scale: $.06/KWH for 0 - 2,000
KWH/month, $.07/KWH for 2,001 - 25,000 KWH/month and
$.08/KWH for more than 25,000 KWH/month. In 1982 the cost to
produce electricity including fuel, maintenance and personnel
expense was estimated at approximately $.12/KWH. In effect,
consumers have been enjoying a substantial tnergy subsidy in
the C NMI.
The largest energy users on Saipan are major hotels, fx)l-
lowed by smaller commercial enterprises like laundromats which
use dryers and water heaters. These units a heavy energy
consumers and are inefEkdent in their operation. There are no
large industmal energy users on Saipan and no significant
military demand. Commercial airlines represent a large liquid
fuel demand on Saipan. Although airline activities do have a
direct effect on tourism, their purchases are made from the
supplier and do not affect the local economy directly. Gasoline
comprises an appreciable portion of the fuels used on the
island, as does diesel cdL Both are bought by the private
sector for eous uses (Table V31r-14). Note that elec-
tZical generation consumes nearly half of the imported petroleum
products.
There are a number of energy-related facm-lities and
operations that play a part in the overall energy picture on
Saipan. These include the CommeraL-A Port where cdl is pumped
from tankers, Mobil cdl storage trucks, pipelines between the
dock and holding tanks and the distribution system that brings
oil to the generating facility. All three are located in the
Tanapag Planning Area between Commercial Port and the power
plant.
In decreasing order, the greatest electricity demand is for:
air conditi ning, water heating, cooking, lighting,
refrigeration, TV and radio. There are roughly 3,000 energy
customers, of which nearly one-third are unmetered and pay a

VIII-38

kh,

Table VIII-14

END USES OF FUELS, CNMI, 1981
(IN 10001S OF BBL)

Amount Price (a, b) Commll/InduE
Fuel Purchased ($/bbl) Gov't Private Constructio

Motor Gasoline 67 52 8 59

Aviation Gasoline 0.4 175 0.4

Jet Fuel - K 84 73 84

Kerosene 1 62 ---- 1.0 ----

Diesel 42 55 21

RFO - 6 136 32

(a) At Mobile Bulk Plant, February 1981, exclusive of taxes and local transportation.

(b) Guam Oil Refining Company supplied 182,000 bbl in 1980; difference Is believed to b
storage requirements and losses. RFO-6 price is as of August 1980.

(d) 5500 autos, 192 boats.

(e) Private communication, George Chan: Comm' I/ Indust- 16%, Construction-84%.

Population: 16,862 (Septemeber 1980)

Households: ' 3,400 '(Spptember 1980)

Project Areawide

flat $35 per month. These tend to be small energy users, yet
they make up a significant number of consumers. CNMI
government facilities do not pay for energy consumption, and
the old Trust Territory government pays a flat rate of $400,000
per yea . The result is that the effective income amounts to
$.02/KWH or approximately six times less than the estimated
cost of production.
Continued and increased federal funding is the only way
the CNMI Government can keep-up with the cost of energy
production on Saipan without resorting to fun cost rate bikes.
Unfbrtunately, at the present time the entire electrical power
system and back-up on Saipan is based on oil imported from
countries thousands of miles away. This presents special pro-
blems, the most drastic of which would be felt if the oil supply
were to be depleted or if prices continue to rise. Both of
these situations would sl ;:ss an already fragile relationsldp
between the energy suppliers (federal government) and energy
users (CNMI residents and government), not to mention the dis-
ruption that would surely exist in a society so closely tied to
petroleum.

d. Energy Alternatives fnr Saipan
Fortunately, there are a few renewable energy fuel sources
that are- abundant in the CNMI, and the government is seeking
to revise the trend of cdl dependency through the implemen-
tation of programs to develop alternate -sources of energy, par-
ticularly those which are renewable. At least six: indigenous
renewable energy sources have been identif3ed within the CNMI:
solar, (including hot water, photovc1taics, salt gradient ponds
and OTEC), wind, geothermal., biomass (including tree farms
and biogas), tidal and currents and municipal. sclid waste. of
these, call but geothermal apply to Saipan. The prospects of
tapping active volcanoes for geothermal power on Pagan and
transporting electricity through underwater cables is not totally
out of the question and this technology is presently being
studied in Hawaii- However, the practicality of such power
generation is at least a decade away at even the best sites like
the Hawaiian I-sland

e. Energy management on Saipan
E addition to the prospects of producing energy from in-
digenous energy sources, energy management, conservation and
education form the basis for improving on Saipan's energy
needs. Within the CNMI, particularly Saipan, a number of
energy management and conservation options have been identi-
fied. while the options will not contribute to new energy
sources, they will reduce the demand on existing generation fa-
ailities and make them available to help support CNMI economic
development goals. It win take time to study and implement the
numerous alternative energy pos-abilid s fnr the CNMI and
reali7e positive results. The first step is to build energy un-
derstanding among the users while providing them with energy
needs at a reasonable rate.

VI31-40

Project Areawide

f. Alternate Energy Sour,!es for the CNMI
With the maxi@@!m baseload and peak electricity demand on
Saipan running at 11.7 and 15.4 MW respectively, there is good
opportunity to replace a significant portion of the oil-fired
generating capacity with alternate fuels.
In addition to these baseload technologies,, solar water
heating and biogas technologies have great potential to reduce
the demands on the central power system and make it available
for more productive use.
Conservation and energy management are listed as baseload
electrical energy sources because energy conserved and
efficiently used reduces the requirement for additional
generation equipment and releases the present capacity for more
productive uses. It can provide immediate additional energy at
a minimum of cost.
Coal is an exciting alternative fuel for existing oil-fired
power generation facilities. The potential for a coal
-transshipment facility in the CNMI has been studied, and the
potential is interesting enough to warrant further detailed
studies.
A biomass tree farm is probably the most promising of the
baseload energy generation techniques for the CNMI. It uses
readily available resources and has the potential for both
short-term and long-term contribution to the solution of energy
supply problems in the CNML Note should also be'taken that
municipal solid waste and coal can be used as supplementary
fuels in a properly designed biomass system.
While coal as a fuel has many attractive features, use levels
in the CNMI may not be high enough to justify conversion - from
oil to coal. Such conversion would require significant land
dedication for the plant and the coal handling facility as well as
improvements in cargo handling capability at the port. The
requirement for coal may be so small as to make them
prohibitively expensive, and thus the generated electricity also
expensive, unless it was tied to a larger concept.
The solar pond technology concept is progressing through a
rapid growth period at the present time. Costs, prohibitive at
this time, should drop considerably in the near future. The
technology is very attractive, since it has the characteristics to
act as a baseload ener y producer as well as a peaking
9
electrical energy source.
Ocean currents and tidal electricity have not been
sufficiently characterized in the CNMI to determine their
potential feasibility. However, the apparent energy content,
the scale of the machinery necessary to utilize it and the
presently undeveloped state of technology make it unlikely that
this technology will be available for the CNMI in the near
future.
OTEC has come a long way in the past 10 years. However,
it is still not at a stage where a large, baseload. volume of
electricity can be generated at a reasonable cost.

VIII-41

Prcject Areawid e

4. Economic Resources

a. Tourism Industry
'Rhile Saipan's tourism industri s are scattered throughout
the island, many of the most important tourist-related busi-
nesses are located in the prcject area. It is important to re-
view all existing data with a perspective of economic develop-
ment and, in Saipan, that viewpoint is dominated by the tourism
industry.
Presently, Saipan has 797 tourist-class hotel. rooms among
six hotels (Table VM-15). Four of the hotels. are planning
expansions totalling another 468 rooms. Additionally Japan Air
Lines is planning a new hotel. north of San Roque. Saipan's
current tourist attractions maintained by the MVB are listed 3n
Table VIII-16. Three of these are located in the prcject area
and are denoted by ast=i k.
other tourist attractions include the Saipan Museum, which
displays many World War 33: artifacts along with items of cultural.
interest. There are two golf courses; the Whispering Palms
Golf Club, (a flat, nine hole course and Country Club) and a
more challenging 18-hole gclf course located in Marpi. Saipan
also ofEers scuba diving, snorkeling, water skiing, glass bottom
boat excursions" sailing, jet skiing, and a deep sea and sports
I
fishing. 'Each of the major hotels has tennis courts, and there
are several night clubs available for evening entertainment.
Tourism is a big business on Saipan. Arrivals increased by
500% du =ig the decade 1971-1981 and in 1983 124,024 visitors ar-
rived and in 1984 there were 131,823 arrivals.
The Mananas Visitors Bureau reports that each tourist
spends $170 per day on the average. However, this is
generally, disputed as being too low. It is recognized that:
those tourist who travel. directly from Japan tend to spend more
than those who travel to Saipan via Guam.
In 1982, approximately 1300 people were directly employed
in the marianas tourism industry.
Because most of the tourists (more than 80%) are Japanese,
the MVB is expanding its promotional efforts to attract visitors
from Hong Kong, Taipei, Singapore, Korea and the U. S.
Mainland. Furthermore,, the MVB is emphasizing Saipan's sight-
seeing attractions such as Lagoon boat trips, Managaha. Island,
sport fishing, diving and water sports in general.

C. Legislation and Pclicie-s

1.
a. Areas of Particular Concern
Public Law 3-47 establi hed, among other things, Bour
Areas of Particular Concern (APC). They are:
Port and Industrial APC
Lagoon and Reef APC
Shoreline Zone APC
Wetland and Mangrove APC

VUE-42

Project Areawide

Table VIII-15

SAIPAN TOURIST ACCOMMODATIONS
ALONG SAIPAN LAGOON

Existing Proposed
Hotel Rooms Rooms Facilities and Services

Hafa Adai Beach Hotel 198 110 Restaurant, outdoor dining,
(Garapan) (1986) cocktail lounge, coffee shop,
gift shop. Swimming pool on Air
the beach. Conditioning. Laun-
dry Services. Also, 110 addi-
tional rooms proposed for con-
struction start in 1986.

Diamond Hotel (formerly
Royal Taga Hotel) 80 329 Air conditioned. Laundry service.
(Susupe) (1986) Japanese restaurant, dining room,
cocktail lounge and bar with dancing.
Duty fee shop. Swimming and wad-
ing pools, tennis courts, volley-
ball. Two meeting rooms.
Renovations planned for 10
story, 329 room hotel.

Saipan Grand, Hotel 120 32 Air conditioned. Laundry service.
(Susupe) (1985) Restaurant and bar with dancing.
Snack shop. Duty Free Shop.
Swimming pool and game room.
Conference room. An additional
44 rooms are under construc-
tion.

Hyatt Regency Saipan Hotel 183 80 Air conditioned. Laundry service.
(Garapan) (1988) Japanese restaurant. Informal res-
taurant with outdoor terrace. For-
mal restaurant. Bar with nightly
entertainment and dancing. Gift
shop. Beauty and barber shop.
Swimming pool, volleyball, shuffle
board, horseshoes, tennis courts
and fish pond. Meeting room.

Surf Hotel (formerly White
Sands Hotel) 41 71 36 hotel rooms and 5 lodges. 71 ad-
(San Antonio) (1985) ditional rooms planned for con-
struction in 1986.

VIII-43

Project Areawide

Table V32I-15 continued.

Existing Proposed
Hotel Rooms Rooms Fatn3itit-s and Services

Saipan Beach Hotel 175 Air conditioned. Laundry Ser-
(Garapan) vim. Restaurant and bar,
(formerly Intercontinental) coffee shop. Duty Free Shop.
Swimming pool, outdoor recrea-
Kan PadF3 Beach tion area . 1
50 Beachside HobeL
(Tanapag-Proposed) (1986)

Hotel Nikko Saipan 320 Resort complex w3th fVU ac-
(San Roque-Proposed) (1987) comodations.

V2=-44

Project Areawide

Table VIII-16

SAIPAN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

Banzai Cliff

Bird Island Look-out

Grotto

Japanese Government Memorial Park

Korean Peace Memorial

Ladder Beach

Last Command Post

Manakaha Island

Micro Beach

Obyan Beach

Okinawa Memorial Park

Old Japanese Hospital

Sugar King Park

Suicide Cliff

Susupe Japanese Memorial

Tank Display (Beach Road)

Three Memorial Triangles

Yamatomi Rest House

VIII-45

Project Areawide

These APC's for the PLAN area are delineated as Maps S2,S1 "
S4 and S7 on the APC Map Index (Figure VIII-10). Each map
is also presented separately on Figure VIII-11, VIII-12,
VIII-13, and VI-II-14 respectively.
All project activity within or partially within these areas
requires a coastal permit from GRMO. Since all four resources
are within this PLAN's project area, the following excerpts
reflect the standards and highest priorities considered in the
granting of permits within the APCs.
Lagoon and Reef APC
Standards:
(A) Manage the development of the reef fishery and mari-
culture within productive renewable marine resources
areas.
(B) Conservation and management of living and non-living
resources.
(C) Designate underwater preservation areas for non-
extractive recreation purposes in areas representing the
richness and diversity of the reef community.
(D) Prevent significant adverse impacts to reefs and corals.
(E) Evaluate and consider the effects of proposed projects
on the subsistence fishery.
Use Priorities:
(A) H@ighest
(1) Conservation of open space, high water quality,
historic, and cultural resources.
(2) Preservation of fish and wildlife habitat.
(3) Activities related to the prevention - of beach
erosion.
Wetland and Mangrove APC
Standards:
(A) Ensure adequate water flow, nutrients, and oxygen
levels and avoid adverse effects on natural drainage
.patterns, the destruction of important habitat, and the
discharge of toxic substances.
(B) Preserve the integrity of the mangrove community
through strict management, including vigorous en-
forcement of legal sanctions, on any activity or de-
velopment which threatens the ecological process of the
mangrove community.
(C) Maintain critical wetland habitat so as to increase the
potential for survival of known rare and endangered
flora and fauna.
(D) Manage development to preclude significant adverse
impact to natural hydrological processes.
(E) Increase and maintain public land-holdings in and
adjacent to the APC.
Use Priorities:
75 Highest
(1) Preservation and enhancement of mangrove and
wetlands area.
(2) Preservation of wildlife, primary productivity,
conservation areas, and historical properties in both
mangrove and wetland areas.

VIII-46

1.0vi

[S 2:1 be t@
V

APC LEGEND

NNI
MT
:1- - "I!, & Reef
A =Lagoon
5
Es@ rv, /-A- 1'4 74
s6 =Shoreline
I ..j aced
i enches
-Qi =Wetland & Mangml

Plt I =Port & Industri&
r NA,

d@ ern
h-e
Lain
a'
ced
G'M s
8
A 7,D%
OF APC MAP INDEX
Figure VIII-11.
lim tondi
bt '.a or -s
2 3 I<m

tses, rn Sourc'e: CRMO, CNMI
A
o,4,.stat i
f I + v I IT - @7

40 *is
6*so -71 .1

q.
Iwo 7- 1., -f

.-t: al .1
anapag
'J
fK
ve Sabamn Aou

(f T
J.
iiq@I

P".

ss
As :-A kin rf
. .1,
Ji

-q:
-sb

Q-.v,I

eo
(,-J
"Ka

is
n.
T

iso,

to
to
-jilt%

Aliw

Figure VIII-12.
Source: CRMO CMU V-171.L- Etu

Ugawo:.
71;
.70i
jf-4

74
T

NV, -Z
V.
r-aa@

A.@ @F4iipa,

Figure VIII-13.
Source: CRMO, CNMI viii-

uP41 M*

O.'k

4k
0

J,
4r

N
7
.41
441
V

Chal-

'A"

V J. 2
N

I's

Figure VIII-14.
Source: CRMO, CNKI

/* V

i. fig p;
-4 7y@
t6 L;

S..'s

L
:r.. Ai Ulm Amr.
14@

;IYO

\--C h a la

Ran
otoni
A$ 'Llto

C-AST IWAPOI

"Pp

,Nz..
iol" - V
F, &IM
17-
MAP
00 A
F.A

A Af
Ovy MICRON,.

Figure VIII-15. ...
source: CRMO, CNHI

Project Areawide

Shoreline Zone APC
Standards:
(A) Evalu;7te and consider in shoreline development de-
dsions,, the impact of onshore activities upon the pro-
ductivity of coastal resources.
(B) Evaluate and consider the effects of shoreline develop-
ment on natural beach processes.
(C) Reduce the taking of beach sands, gravel, other ag-
gregate, and minerals for any purpose.
Use Priorities:
(A) Highest
(1) Public recreational uses of beach area, including
the creation of public shoreline parks and struc-
tures enhancing access such as grills, picnic
tables, docks, shelters, and boardwalks.
(2) Preservation of fish and wildlife habitat.
(3) Preservation of natural open areas of high scenic
beauty.
(4) Activities related to the prevention of beach
erosion.

b. Taxation and Revenue-Producing Legislation
The Commonwealth has its own set of tax laws for NMI
source income and the rates become effective in June 1982.
The two major taxes are gross annual wage and salary taxes
(which range from 2% of wages over $1,000 to 9% of wages over
$50,000) and gross revenue taxes (which range from 1.5% of
amounts over $5,000 to 5% of amounts of $750,000) Exemptions
to the gross revenue tax are:
Agriculture and fisheries production businesses. are
taxed at the rate of .1% of gross revenues over $5,000
per quarter or over $20,000 per year.
Commercial banks, savings and loans and other financial
institutions are taxed at rates no greater than 2% of
gross revenues or 5% net income.
Exporters are exempted from business revenue tax on
export sales.
Gross revenue derived from manufacturing, wholesaling
and ocean shipping is taxed at a maximum rate of 2%.
However, the computation of the tax for businesses with
combined income is based on the total gross revenues of
the business.
There is no tax on real property and no tax on business
net income. Excise taxes for first sale or use are assessed for
cigarettes, tobacco, beer and malt beverages, wine, sake, soft
drinks etc.
A Bar Tax assesses 3% of the total charges for any
beverage sold or consumed.
A Hotel Occupancy Tax assesses 10% of the amount paid for
accommodations.

VIII-52

Project Areawide

c. Land Ownership
The consutution oi the NMI restricts land ownership to
persons of NMI descent. Persons of non-NMI descent may lease-
land; however such lease periods vary and never exceed 40
years, including renewal rights.
A corporation may be considered of NMI descent as long as
it is incorporated in the Commonwealth, has its principal place
of business in the Commonwealth, directors at least 51% of whom
are persons of NMI descent, and has voting shares at least 51%
of which are owned,by persons of NMI descent.

d. Protection of Resources
en major public iaws of ihe Commonwealth of the
Northern Mariana Islands are concerned with protection of
resources. The CNMI Department of Natural Resources and
Department of Health and Environmental Services are created
under PL 1-8, "The Executive Branch Organization Act of 19781,
(CMC, Div. 2, Chapter 12 1 CMC, Div. 2 Chapter 12).
The DNR is to manage the use of the submerged lands of
the Commonwealth for purposes such as mineral and petroleum
extraction under PL1-23, "The Submerged Lands Act" (2 CMC,
Div. 1 Chapter 2).
PL 2-7, the "Marine Sovereignty-Act of 1980" (2 CMC, Div.
1, Chapter 1) declares sovereignty over internal waters of the
Common*'ealth, archipelagic waters and territorial seas,
"regardless of their depth or distance from the coast, as well
as their airspace, seabed, and subsoil and the resources con-
tained therein." A 200 inile exclusive economic zone is declared.
(2 CMC, Div. 1, Chapter 1).
The Division of Environmental Quality of the Department of
Health and Environmental Services is created under PL 3-23. (1
CMC, Div. 2, Article 5).
PL 3-42 declares the CNMI a "nuclear and chemical free
zone" (Z CMC, Div. 2, Chapter 3).
PL 3-47 establishes the Coastal Resources Management
Program in law (2 CMC, Div. 1, Chapter 5). -
These laws supersede previous Trust Territory Code and
Marianas District Code Provisions which covered similar issues.
Coastal wetlands, beaches, reefs, estuaries and fish and
wildlife habitats receive specific protection under Commonwealth
Public Law 3-47 (effective February 11, 1983) which establishes
the Coastal Resources Management Program in the Commonwealth
of the Northern Mariana Islands. CRMP Regulations, effective
August 26, 1981, specifically recognize these areas as "areas of
particular concern" and give the highest priority to their
protection and proper use. A permitting system with use
standards and priorities is in place for review of all activities
which have the potential to directly and significantly impact
coastal resources. The CRMO has an enforcement staff which
implements permits, the law, and regulations through daily
monitoring.

VIII-53

Project Areawide

According to section 5, PL 2-51 (effective October 19, 1981)
protection of fish, game and endangered and threatened species
is vested exclusively in the CNMI Department of Natural Re-
sources. By law, the DNR Director must determine whether
resident species of fish, wildlife or plants are endangered or
threatened. The survival of such species is the responsibility
of the Director, to be effected, if necessary, through acqui-
sition of land or aquatic habitat or through additional regu-
lations. Regulations imposing hunting and fishing seasons,
licenses and other restrictions were adopted in August 1983.
The Fish and Wildlife Division of DNR and CRMO have an
enforcement staff to carry out the law and its regulations.
PL 3-23 creates the Division of Environmental Quality of the
Department of Health and Environmental Services which
regulates discharge of pollutants and hazardous substances and
which would include within its authority all of the areas in
question. The DEQ also monitors marine and drinldng water
and pesticides. DEQ regulations have been adopted covering
earthmoving, erosion control, underground injection, and air
pollution control. DEQ does not have an enforcement staff per
se, but staff personnel regularly test water quality and act on
problems reported to them or encountered during monitoring in
the field. Their concerns include threshold levels of water
quality to ensure a healthy marine habitat. Civil penalties for
violations are provided for.
'The Submerged Lands Act," PL 1-23 (effective February
23, 1979) directs the Commonwealth DNR to manage the use and
disposition of submerged lands of the CNMI. Regulations
covering licenses for mineral and petroleum exploration and a
permitting program were issued in February 1983.
PL 2-7, "The Marine Sovereignty Act of 1980," would also
include many, if not all of these areas within its claim of
sovereignty. Penalties for violations of this law are included.
Responsibility for enforcement rests with the Director of the
Commonwealth Department of Commerce and Labor. '
Dumping of nuclear and chemical wastes into the ocean or
seabed surrounding the Commonwealth is also banned under PL
3-42 (effective January 1983), which would directly or in-
directly apply to relevant areas. Criminal and civil penalties
are provided for violations. DNR,and CRMO have the primary
enforcement responsibility.
By its Constitution, adopted in December 5, 1976, the
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands set major policy
on designation of natural resources for public purposes under
Article XIV: Natural Resources. In section 2, Uninhabited
Islands, the island of Managaha is to be maintained as an
uninhabited place and used only for cultural and recreational
purposes.
Under the Constitution's Article IX, "Public Lands," the
Marianas Public Land Corporation is responsible for "the
management and disposition of public landsn in the Common-
wealth. The nine member board of directors of the MPLG is

VUI-54

Project Areawide

appointed by the Governor with the advise and consent of the
Senate and is to "direct the aifairs of the corporation for the
benefit of the people of the Commonwealth who are of Northern
Marianas descent."

3. Policies

a. Established CZM Goals and Policies
The Following goals and poli es have been established with
respect to coastal resources. They are excerpted below.
It shall be the Commonwealth's goals to:
- Provide for the orderly use and development of
coastal resources of the Northern Marianas.
- Protect, maintain 'and replenish the coastal re-
sources of the Northern Marianas.
- Provide for governmental coordination in order to
implement the Coastal Resources Management
Program in a manner which is direct and effective.
- Promote social and economic development and growth
while recognizing the need to balance the limited
coastal resources.
- Manage the impacts of human activity on the use
and development of renewable and non-renewable
resources so as to maintain and enhance the long-
term productivity of the coastal environment.
Protect, maintain, preserve and restore to the
extent practicable the Overall quality of the coastal
resources, the natural and man-made resources
therein and the scenic and historic resources for
the benefit of residents and visitors to the Common-
wealth.
Commonwealth-wide Policies
Government Processes
The Commonwealth 9'h-aU-.
- Encourage land-use master planning, floodplain
management and the development of zoning and
building code legislation.
- Provide for adequate consideration of the national
interest, including that involved in planning for,
and in the siting of, facilities (including energy
A facilities in, or which significantly affect, the
Commonwealth's coastal zone) which are necessary
to meet requirements which are other than local in
nature.
Not permit to the extent practicable, development of
identified hazardous lands including floodplains,
erosion-prone areas, storm wave inundation areas,
air installation crash and sound zones and major
fault lines unless it can be demonstrated that such
development does not pose unreasonable risks to the
health, safety or welfare of the people of the
Commonwealth and complies with applicable laws.

VIII-55

Project Areawide

While developing an efficient and safe transportation
system including that whlich is waterborne, mitigate
to the extent practicable adverse environmental
impacts, including those on aquifers, beaches,
estuaries and other coastal resources.
Require any development to strictly comply with
erosion, sedimentation, and related land-use dis-
tricting guidelines, as well as other related land
and water use policies for such areas.
Maintain or increase coastal water quality through
control of erosion, sedimentation, runoff, siltation
and sewage and other discharges.
Recognize and respect locations and properties of
historical significance throughout the Commonwealth,
and ensure that development which would disrupt,
alter, or destroy these shall be subject to
Commonwealth and any applicable federal laws and
regulations.
Recognize areas of cultural significance. Develop-
ment which would disrupt the cultural practices
associated with such areas shall be subject to a
consultation process with concerned ethnic groups
and any applicable laws and regulations.
Resource Policies
The Commonwealth shall:
- Require compliance with- all local air and water
quality laws and regulations and any federal air and
water quality standards. . I
- Not permit, to the extent practicable, development
with the potential for causing significant adverse
impact in fragile areas such as designated and
potential historic and archaeological sites, critical
wildlife habitats, beaches, designated and potential
pristine marine and terrestrial @communities, lime-
stone and volcanic forests, designated and potential
mangrove stands and other wetlands.
- Manage ecologically significant resource areas for
their contribution to marine productivity and value
as wildlife habitats, and preserve the functions and
integrity of reefs, marine meadows, salt ponds,
mangroves and other significant natural areas.
- Manage the development of the local subsistence,
sport and commercial fisheries, consistent with
other policies.
- Protect all resources within the coastal waters,
particularly sand, corals, fish and habitat from any
taking beyond sustainable levels and in the case of
marine mammals and any species on the Common-
wealth and Federal Endangered Species list, from
any taking whatsoever.
- Encourage preservation and enhancement of, and
respect for the Commonwealth's scenic resources

VIH-56

Project Areawide

through the development of, increased enforcement
of, and comphance with" sign, litter, zoning,
building codes, and related land-use laws.
Discourage to the maximum extent practicable vis-
ually objectionable uses so as not to significantly
degrade scenic views.
Encourage the development of recreation facilities
which are compatible with the surrounding environ-
ment and land-use.
Encourage the preservation of traditional rights of
public access to and along the shorelines consistent
with the right of private property owners.
Pursue agreements for the acquisition and/or use of
any lands, where necessary, to guarantee tradi-
tional public access to and along the shorelines.
Encourage agricultural development and the preser-
vation and maintenance of critical agricultural lands
for agricultural uses.

VIII-57

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APPENDIX A

Checklist of Algae, Coralline Algae and Seagrass found in the
various planning areas of Saipan Lagoon

SPECIES PLANNING AREA

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Chlorodesmis fastigiata x x x
Microcoleus lyngbyaceus x x x x x x x
Avrainvillea laceerata x x x
Halimeda opuntia x x x x x x x
H. macroloba x x x x
Caulerpa sertularioides x x x x
Schizothrix calcicola x x x x x x
Dictyota sp. x x x x x x x
D. bartayresii x x
Sargassum polycystum x x x x
Padina tenuis x x x x
Hydroclathrus clathratus x
Turbinaria ornata x x x x x
Schizothrix meiticana x x x x x x
Avrainvillea. obscura x x
Enteromorpha clathrata x x
Gelidiella acerosa x x
Jania capillacea x x
Chnoospora minima x
Udotea argentia x
Tydemania expeditionis x x
Caulerpa cupressoides x x x
Hypnea sp. x x
Gracilaria sp. x x
Acanthopora spicifera x x
Seagrasses
Halodule uninervis x x x x x
Enhalus acoroides x x x x x x
Halophila minorx x x x x x
Coralline Al&ae
Parolithon onkoides x x x x x x x
Lithophyllum moluccense x x x x x x x

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

TOTALS
Algae 25 12 11 -16 14 12 10
Seagrass 3 2 3 1 3 3 3 1
Coralline
Algae 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
A-1

APPENDIX B

Checklist of Corals found in Planning Areas of the Saipan Lagoon.

SPECIES PLANNING AREA

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Acanthastrea echinata x
Acropora syringodes x
A. teres x x
A. hebes x
A. sp. x
A. valida x
A. tenuis x
A. palifera x
A. gravida x
A. irregularis x x x
A. nasuta x x x x x x x
A. smithi x x x x x
A. sp. x
A. formosa x x x
A. palifera x x x x x
A. surculosa x x x
A. striata x
A. aspera. x x x x x x
A. variabilis x
A. vigata x
A. humilis x x x
A. squarrosa x
A. cerealls x
A. studeri x
A. convexa x
Acrhelia horrescens x x
Astreopora myriopthalma x x
Alveopora sp. x
Coscinaraea columna x
Diploasthrea heliopora x x x
Distichopora violacea x
Echinopora lamellosa x x
Echinophyllia aspera x
Euphyllia glabrescens x
Favia matthaii x x x x x
F. favus x x I
F. favites x
F. stelligera x x x x
F. pallida x x x x x x
F. danae x
Favites palavensis x
F. favosa B-1 x x

SPECIES PLANNING AREA

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Fungia fungites x x x
F. scutaria x x
Galaxea facicularis x x
G. hexaganoUs x x
Galaxura sp. x
Goniastrea pectinata x x x x
G. edwardsi x x x x
G. retiformis x x x x
G. parvistella x x x x
Goniopora sp . x
Heliopora coerulea x x x x x
Hepolitha limax x
Leptastrea purpura x x x
L. bottae x x
L. sp. x
Leptoria phrygia x x x
Leptoseris explanata x x
Lobophylla corymbosa x x
L. costata x
L. hemprichii x x x
Lobophytum sp. x
Merulina sp - x
Millepora exaesa x x
M. dichotoma x x x x x
M. latifolia x
M. plat-yphyUa x x x x
Montipora tuberculosa x
M. verrilli x x x x
M. hoffmeisteri x
M. verrucosa x x x x
M. e1schneri x x x
M. lobulata x
M. ehrenborgii x x
M. foveolata x x x
M. caliculata x
M. sp. x x x x
M. sp. x x x x
M. sp. x
Neliopa sp. x
Oulophyllia crispa x
Pachyseris sp. x
Pavona (Polyastra) sp. x x
P. (Pseudocolumnastrea)
pollicata x
P. venosa x
P. obtusata x
P. rondifera x
P. sp. x
P. varions x
P. duerdeni x B-2 x x x

SPECIES PLANNING AREA

1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Pocillopora Efanae x x
P. setchelli x x x x
P. elegans x x x
P. damicornis x x x x x x x
P. eydousi x x x x x
P. verrucosa x x
P. elegans x
Polyphyllia talpina x
Platygyra pini x x
P. sinensis x x
P. rustica x x
P. lamellina x
P. daedalea x x x x
Plesiastrea versipora x
Plerogyra sinuosa x
Porites (Synaraea) iwayamaensis x
P.'reticulosa x
P. cylindrica x x
P. australiensis x
P. rus x x X, x x x
.P. cocosenensis x
P. annae x
P. lutea x x x x x x x
P. compressa x
Psammocora stellata x
P. contigua x x x x x x
P. nierstraszi x x
P. digitata x x x
P. (Stephanaria) togianeusis x x
Sarcophyton sp. x
ScapophylUa cylindrica x
Seriatopora hystrix x x
S. crassa x
StylocoenieUa armata x x x x x
Symphyllia valenciennesH x
Stylophora mordax x x x x x x
Tubastraea aurea x
Tubipora musica x

ALL AREAS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

TOTALS 129 61 31 61 41 29 37 32

B-3

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I VOLUME I
PART C
I. BIBLIOGRAPHY OF REFERENCES
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Listing of References
Key to Understanding

The following bibliography is a compilation of references used during
the preparation of the SAIPAN LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT PLAN. Many of
these are already referred to in Volumes 1, 11 and III of the PLAN.
Because of the number of references used, the listing is organized
differently than a 6onventional listing of references. There are no double
listings, even though some report/study may fall into more than one section
heading. Each report/study is listed under the section heading most
appropriate to the references use in this PLAN. The format is as follows.

Section Heading

No. of Source/ Location of Area of
Title Author Date Pages Publisher Reference Concern

The following is a brief description of each part of the bibliography.

Sections Headings:
- Population
- Housing
- Economics
- Terrestrial Flora & Fauna
- Administration
- Coastal Zone Management
- Port & Harbor
- Coastal Resources
- Maps
- Land Use
- Dumps
- Environmental Impact Statements
- Hydrology
- Parks and Recreation
- Tourism
- Water/ Wastewater
- Marine Flora & Fauna
- Historical Properties /Cultural Resources
- Physical Paramaters
- Energy
- Miscellaneous

Title As given on the Report/Study
Author: Individual author where noted, otherwise the agency or
organization
Date Specific date where given: day/month/year where given
No. of
Pages: Total number including appendices

Source/
Publisher: Organization/ agency the report/study was done for
Location of
Reference: Coded as follows:

- CRMO: Coastal Resource Management Office
Library
(Saipan)
- C&L Dept. of Commerce & Labor, CNMI (Saipan)
- NFML: Nieves Flores Memorial Library (Agana,
Guam)
- CPP : Office of the Chief Physical Planner, CNMI
(Saipan)
- DEQ : Division of Environmental Quality
(Saipan)
- DPW : Department of Public Works CNMI
(Saipan)
UOGML: University of Guam Marine Laboratory
(Guam)
F&W : Fish and Wildlife (Guam)
UOG : University of Guam Library (Guam)
HPO : Historic Preservation Office (CNMI)

Area of Concern:
- International
- National (US)
- CNMI
- Saipan
Saipan Lagoon Project Area (Lagoon-wide)
- Guam

L ME ME ME ME MEN Em

No. of Source/ Location
Title Author Date Pazes Publisher Referenc

The Development Criteria Lutz, R. , T. Aug. 29 U. S. Dept. of CRMO
of the Preliminary Coastal Rauk and B.J. 1975 Commerce, NOAA,
Plan Washom Office of Sea
Grant. USC-SG-
ASI-75

Coastal Environmental Conservation 1980 158 Conservation CRMO
Management Foundation for Foundation for
the Council on the Council on
Environmental Environmental
Quality Quality

Coastal Land & Water Coastal Resources 1979 219 Commonwealth of CRMO
Use Plan Management Office- the Northeyn
Planning & Budget Marianas Islands
Affairs Office

Ecological Guidelines for Odum, William E. 1976 54 UNESCO, United CRMO
Tropical Coastal Develop- Nations Environ-
ment ment Programme,
Savedish Int'l De-
velopment Authority
& World Wildlife
Fund

PORT AND HARBOR

Preliminary Port and U.S. Army Corps 1981 54 U. S. Dept. of CRMO
Harbor Study of the of Engineers, Interior
Commonwealth of the Pacific Ocean
Northern Marianas Islands Division

LISTING OF REFERENCES

No. of Source/ Location
Title Author Date Pages Publisher Ref eren

POPULATION

Number of Inhabitants Bureau of 1980 N/A Government C&L
1980 Census of population the Census Printing Office

HOUSING

General Housing Bureau of 1980 17 Government C&L
Characteristics the Census Printing Office

ECONOMICS

Assessment of Current and Robert S. Nathan 1977 The Commonwealth CRMO
Prospective Socio-Economic Associates, Inc. 478 Development Com- C&L'.
Conditions in the Common- mision and Common-
wealth of the Northern wealth Office of
Mariana Islands Planning & Budget
Affairs

Overall Economic Develop- Commonwealth of 1982 66 CNMI CRMO
ment Strategy-1981 the Northern
Marianas Islands

Overall Economic Develop- Planning and 1984 100 U.S. Dept. of CRMO
ment Strategy-1983 Budget Office of Commerce Economic
the G@vernor, Development Admin-
CNMI istration

No. of Source/ Location
Title Author Date Paaes Publisher Referen(

Economic Growth & De- Pacific Basin De- 1980 298 Pacific Basin De- CRMO
velopement through Unity velop. Conf. Real velopment Council

Business Prospectus Under Estate Re'search 1976 18 'Office of Coastal CRMO
Coastal Zone Management Corp. Zone Management

TERRESTRIAL FLORA & FAUNA

A study on Carolinian Kaster, Hatnat July 37 Saipan CRMO CRMO
Medicinal Plants on and Vicente 1981
Managaha Island Tebit

Ornithological Survey of J. C. Tenorio Aug. 202 ACOE CRMO
Wetlands In Guam, Saipan and Asso. 1979
Tinian and Pagan

ADMINISTRATION

35th Annual Report to the Dept. of Interior 1982 248 Government CRMO
United Nations in the Printing Office
Administration of the Trust
Territory of the Pacific
Islands

COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT

Proceeding s- Pacific , Basin Economic Develop- 1982 N/A American Samoa CRMO
Coastal Zone Management ment and Planning/ Government
Conference Tourism Office.
American Samoa
Government

No. of Source/ Location
Title Author Date Pap
- es Publisher Ref eren

COSTAL RESOURCES

Bibliography of Coastal Coastal Zone Mgt. 1979 8 CNMI/CRMO CRMO
Planning Resources Program, CNMI

MAPS

Bibliography of Maps for Not Listed Not 9 Unknown CRMO
Saipan, Tinian, Rota and Listed
CNMI

LAND USE
Zones and Land Use Duenas & April 75 Office of the CPP'
Districts for Saipan, Rota Swavely 1984 Chief Physical CRMO
and Tinian Incorporated Planner CNMI

National Landmarks Depts. of Sept. 179 University of CPP
Survey of the Islands of Botany & 1982 Hawaii, Honolulu
tile Pacific Zoology University
of Hawaii

Baseline Information and U S. Army Corps 1984 Dept. of the Army CRMO
Problem Identification: oi Engineers Engineer Districtj
Water and Related Land Ft. Shafter, Hi
Resources, CNMI

No. of Source/ Location
Title Author Date Pages Publisher Referenc

DUMPS

Interim Operations Plan, Duenas & Aug. 32 Division of Envi- DEQ
Puerto Rico Dump Swavely 1984 ronmental Quality,
Incorporated DPH&ES

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENTS

Detailed Project Report U.S. Army Corps March 335 U. S. ACOE Fort CRMO
and Environmental State- of Engineers 1981 Shafter, Hi.
ment, Saipan Small Boat
Harbor

Environmental Assessment National Park Sept. 31 National Park CPP
for General Management Service Dept. 1983 Service, Dept. of CRMO
Plan and Comprehensive of Interior Interior
Design, American Memorial
Park, Saipan
Hotel Nikko Saipan EIS M&E Pacific, March 81 M&E Pacific, Inc. CRMO
Inc. 1985

HYDROLOGY

Reconnaissance Report- U.S. Army Corps July 16 U.S. ACOE Fort CRMO
Lake Susupe/Chalan of Engineers 27, Shafter, Hi.
Kanoa Area Flood Control 1978

No. of Source/ Location
Title Author Date Pages Publisher Referen

Garapan Flood Control- U.S. Army Corps 1984 375 U.S. Army Corps CRM
Detailed Project Report of Engineers of Engineers, Fort
and Environmental Shafter, Hi
Statement

PARKS & RECREATION

General Management Plan National Park Sept. 29 National Park CPP
and Comprehensive Design Service, Dept. 1983 Service, Dept. CRMO
American Memorial Park, of Interior of Interior
Saipan

Park and Outdoor Re- H. Mogi-Planning April 253 Northern Mariana CRMO
creation Resource Study- and Research 1977 Island Planning
Northern Mariana Island Inc. Office

Coastal Recreation: A U. S. Dept. of 1976 36 U. S. Dept. of CRMO
Handbook for Planners Commerce: Commerce
and Managers National Oceanic
& Atmospheric
Admin. Office of
Coastal Zone
Management

Park and Outdoor Re- H. Mogi-Planning April 253 CNMI Planning CRMO
creation Resource Study and Research, 1977 Office
Inc.

Managaha Island Marine Pacific Basin May 91 PBEC, Inc. CRMO
Park Management Plan, EnvironmentAl 1985
Draf t Consultants

CNMI Marine Parks Pacific Basin March 99 PBEC, Inc. CRMO
Management Plan Environmental 1985
Consultants

No. of Source/ Location
Title Author Date Pages Publisher Referenc

TOURISM

1983 Annual Report- Marianas Visitors 1983 33 Marianas Visitors CRMO
Marianas Visitors Bureau Bureau Bureau, CNMI MVB

Tourism Services Manpower School of Gravel 1982 161 Pacific Basin De- CRMO
Development Study of the Industry Mgt. velopment Council
American Pacific Islands

WATER/WASTEWATER

Assesment of Existing Barrett, Harris 1984 25 Dept. of Public DPW
Wastewater Facilities- & Associates, Inc. Works, CNMI
Interim Report

Wastewater Facilities M&E Pacific, Inc. 1980 Dept. of Public DPW
Plan for the Island of Works, CNMI
Saipan

Saipan Water System G K Magire. 1981 Dept. of Public DPW
Study Group Works, CNMI

MARINE FLORA AND FAUNA

A Survey of the Fish Amesbury, S.S. Marcb 58 UOGML Tech. UOGML,
Resources of Saipan, et. al 1979 Rpt. No. 52 UOG, F&
Lagoon CRMO

Marine Survey of Tanapag, Doty, J. E. and March 147 UOGML Tech. UOGML,
Saipan:- The Power Barge J.A. Marsh Jr. 1977 Rpt. No. 33 UOG, CR
"Impedence"

No. of Source/ Location
Title Author Date Pages Publisher Referenc

The Acanthaster Survey of Goreau, T.F. 1969 35 Office of Naval UOGML,
Saipan, Mariana Islands, et. a]. Research/Re- UOG
1969. Structure and Ecology search Foundation
of the Saipan Reefs in Re- of the State
lation to Predation by University of New
Acanthaster 21anc York
(LinnaeusT

Marine Survey of Saipan Gawel, M. July 13 UOGML Environ- UOGML
Lagoon. A Preliminary 1974 mental Survey
Coral Survey of Saipan Report No. 11
Lagoon

Atlas of the Reefs and Eldredge, L. G. July 161 UOGML.Environ- UOGML
Beaches of Saipan, and R. H. Randall 1974 mental Survey
Finian and Rota Report No. 11

HISTORICAL PROPERTIES I CULTURAL RESOURCES

Cultural Resource Survey Thomas, M.R. & March 59 Pacific Studies HPO
of the Susupe-Chalan S. T. Price 1980 Institute, Guam,
Kanoa Flood Control for U. S. Army
Study Area Corps of Engineers

Archaelogical Recon- Thomas, M. R. Nov. 62 Pacific Studies HP0
naissance of the American and S. T. Price 1979 Institute, Guam,
Memorial Park for National Park
Service

Underwater Suvey of Tana- Pacific Basin May 94 PBEC, Inc. HPO
pag Lagoon for Historic Environmental 1985
Properties Consultants

I Mon

No. of Source/ Location
Title Author Date Pages Publisher Referenc

Mint-submarine Search Concepcion, March 25 Historic Pre- HPO
Project Report in the Vicente M. 1982 servation Office
Tanapag Historic Lagoon:
Saipan GNMI

Saipan Lagoon Circulation M&E Pacific Inc. June 64 M&E Pacific Inc. CRMO
Study 1980 Honolulu, Hi. for
U.S. Army Corps
of Engineers

Beaches, Coastal Environ- Doan, D.B. and Dec. 107 Not Listed
ments and Alternate 11. G. Siegrist 1979
Sources of Fine Aggregate
in the Northern Mariana
Islands

Atlas of the Reefs and Eldredge, LG. 1980 UOGML for CRMO -CRMO
Beaches of Saipan, Tinian and R.H. Randall
and Rota

ENERGY

Energy Strategies Toward Kendall, H.W. & 1980 320 Ballinger Pub- CPP
a Solar Future Steven J. Nadis lishing Co. Cam-
bridge Mass.

Energy Source Present Naylor, Benjamin 1975 27 Laneford Publish- CPP
and Future F. ing Co.

Review of Energy Lin daeu, H. R. 1973 39 12th World Gas CPP
Supplies Conf. Report

No. of Source/ Location
Title Author Date Pages Publisher Referen

1982 State of Energy Lee, Bernard S. Feb. 19 9th Energy Tech. CPP
1982 Conf.

Energy, The New Look Hyde, Margret 0. 1981 138 McGraw Hill Book CPP
Company

The National Energy U. S. Dept. of July 25 U. S. Dept. of CPP
Policy Plan Energy 1981 Energy

Solar Energy U. S. Dept. of 1979 27 U. S. Dept. of CPP
Energy Energy

Prospectus for World Frank C. Schora July 58 Pacific Energy CPP
Energy Resources J.S. Sanka, H.L. 1979 Challenge and
Feldkirchner, R. Perspectives. Gas
L. Mociut Dev. Corp. Calif.

Territorial Energy U. S. Dept. of Dec. 206 U. S. Dept. of CPP
Assessment Energy 1982 Energy

Energy Topics; Inter- Inst. of Gas Oct. 4 Inst. of Gas CPP
national Gas Tech. Tech. 1979 Tech.
Highlights

Energy Topics; Inter- In st. of Gas Aug 6 Inst. of Gas CPP
national Gas Tech. Tech. 1982 Tech.
Highlights

Energy Topics; Inter- Inst. of Gas Jan 4 Inst. of Gas CPP
national Gas Tech. Tech. 1980 Tech.
Highlights

No. of Source/ Location
Title Author Date Pages Publisher Referen

Pacific Coal Trade: Dr. W. Miklus June 146 The Research In- CPP,
Economic Opportunities & Raymond W. 1983 stitute; Pacific CRMO
for CNMI, Coal Movement Jenkens Basin Dev. Council
in the Pacific Basin Study

Clean Energy from Coal, U. S. Dept. of Oct. 8 U. S. Dept. of CPP
Domestic Resources for Energy 1983 Energy
America's Energy Future

Demonstrated Reserve Base U. S. Dept. of May 121 U. S. Dept. of CPP
of Coal in the U.S. Energy 1983 Energy
Jan. 1983

Coal Distribution U. S. Dept. of Oct 77 U. S. Dept of CPP
Jan. - June 1981 Energy 1981 Energy

Coal Production-1979 U. S. Dept. of April 108 U. S. Dept. of CPP
Energy Data Report Energy 1981 Energy
CD j

The Substitute of Coal U. S. Dept. of Nov. 40 U. S. Dept. of CPP
for Oil and Natural Gas Energy 1980 Energy
within the Industrial
Sector

Biofuels: A Survey Benemann, June 89 Electric Power CPP
John R. 1978 Research Inst.

Proeedings: Bioenergy 180 The Georgia Apr. 586 Bioenergy Council CPP
World Congress and Ex- World Congress 1980
position Center

No. of Source/ Location
Title Author Date Pages Publisher Referenc

Status Review of Wood The MITRE Jan. 133 Dept. of Energy CPP
Biomass: Gassification Corp. 1979
Pyrolysis and Densi-
fication Technologies

Hydropyrolysis of Biomass Holderman, James June 110 Hawaii Natural CPP
to Produce Liquid Hydro- 1982 Energy Institute
carbon Fuels

Methane Production by Klass, Donald Aug. 15 America' a Chem- CPP
Anarobic Digestion of S. Ghosh 1980 ical Society
the Water Hyacinth
(Eichnornia Orassipes)

Bogassification of Blends Chynoweth, D.P. 1981 14 Inst. of Gas CPP
of Water Hyacinth and M.P. Henry Tech.
Domestic Sludge

Blomethantion of Giant Chynoweth, D.P. Aug. 23 Inst. of Gas CPP
Brown Kelp Macrocystis D. L. Klass 1978 Tech. Symposium
pjtfera on Energy From
Biomass and Waste

Anacrotic Digestion of Chynoweth, D. P. Oct. 22 Inst. of Gas Tech CPP
Marine Biomass 1979 Biogas & Alcohol
Seminar

Energy From Biomass and Klass, Donald L. Jan. 65 Inst. of Gas Tech CPP
Wastes: 1982 Update 1983 Symposium on Energy.
From Biomass &
Waste

No. of Source/ Location
Title Author Date Pages Publisher Referenc.

Waste to Resources: Appro- U.S. Dept. of July .28 U. S. Dept. of CPP
priate Tech. for Sewage Energy 1983 Energy
Treatment and Conversion

Anaerobic Digestion of Chynoweth, DavidJuly 46 Inst. of Gas Tech CPP
Kelp S. Ghosh & D. L. 1979 Biomass Conversion
Klass Process for Energy
and Fuels

Biomass as a Long Range Waterman, W.W. Oct. 20 Inst. of Gas Tech CPP
Source of Hydrocarbons & D. L. Klass 1976 Symposium: 11 The
Future of the
Rubber Industry"

Wastes and Biomass of Klass, D. June 14 Inst. of Gas Tech. CPP
Energy Resources 1979 14th World Gas Conf.

Fuels from Biomass and Inst. of Gas 1984 20 Inst. of Gas Tech. CPP
Wastes Tech.

Ethane. Fuel from Crops Solar Energy Oct. 10 Dept. of Energy CPP
Research Inst. 1980

Small Scale Bio Gas Parith, Mohau 1983 17 Indian Ag. Re- CPP
Plant-India search Inst.

Methane Production from Klass, D.L., S. 1979 5 Inst. of Gas Tech CPP
Aquatic Biomass by Ghosh & D.P.
Anerobic Digestion of Chynoweth
Giant Brown Kelp

Evaluation of Biomass for Bahelle Columbus Feb. 69 Electric Power CPP
Electricity Generation Laboratories 1982 Research Inst.

MONO

No. of Source/ Location
Title Author Date Pages Publisher Referer.

Comparitive Assesment of S clence Ap- Sept. 105 Electric Power CPP
Marine Biomass Materials plications, Inc. 1979 Research Inst.
Northwest

Biomass: Solar Energy Solar Energy March 13 Solar Energy Re- CPP
from Farms and Forest Research Inst. 1980 search Inst.

G!ant Leucaena (Koa Brewbaker, Sept. 90 Hawaii Natural CPP
flaole) Energy Tree Farm: James 1980 Energy Inst.
An Economic Feasibility
Analysis for the Island of
Molokai, Hawaii

Biomass Energy Options Brewbaker, J.L. Nov. 73 U. S. Dept. of CPP
for the American & Kenneth G. 1982 Energy
Territories of the MacDecker
Pacific

Energy from Biomass b Klass, Donald Feb. 90 Inst. of Gas Tech CPP
Wastes- 1983 update 1984

FPRI/GRI Workstation Spencer, D.F. Nov. 384 Electric Power CPP
Biomass Resources and 1978 Research Inst.
Conversion

Ocean Energy Systems U. S. Dept. of May 117 U. S. Dept. of CPP
Multiyear Program Plan Energy 1980 Energy
Ocean Energy Systems-, U. S. Dept. of 1979 275 U.S. Dept. of CPP
Program Summary Energy Energy

No. of Source/ Location
Title Author Date Par2es Publisher Referenc

Research and Development: Tokoyo Electric Aug. 11 Tokyo Electric CPP
OTEC Power Services 1981 Power Services
Co., Ltd Co., Ltd

Environmental Assesment: Interstate Elec- Dec. 345 U. S. Dept. of CPP
OTEC Pilot Plant tronics Corp. 1981 Energy

OTEC Pilot Plant Program Science Appli- Feb. 425 U. S. Dept. of CPP
catons Inc. 1981 - Energy

Energy Topics International Oct. 12 Institute of CPP
Gas Technology 1982 Gas Technology
Highlights

Energy Topics International Aug. 6 Institute of CPP
Gas Technology 1983 Gas Technology
Highlights

Energy Topics International Feb. 4 Institute of CPP
Gas Technology 1983 Gas Technology
Highlights

Energy Topics International May 4 Institute of CPP
Gas Technology 1978 Gas Technology
Highlights

Energy Topics International Nov. 4 Institute of CPP
Gas Technology 1982 Gas Technology
Highlights

Energy Topics International Aug. 8 Institute of CPP
Gas Technology 1982 Gas Technology
Highlights

No. of Source/ Location
Title Author Date Pages Publisher Relerenc

4 Institute of CPP
Energy Topics International July
Gas Technology 1982 Gas Technology
Highlights

Suitability of Salt McCord, T. B. Nov. 116 SETS, Inc. CPP
Gradiant Solar Ponds for 1982
Electrical Power Generation
in the U. S. Trust Territory
of the Pacific Islands, Guam
and American Samoa

MISCELLANEOUS

Glimpses of Guam "Saipan's Staff of 3rd 80 Glimpses of Guam NFML
Got Me", Vol. 16, No.3 Glimpses of qtr. Co, Ltd. Agana
Guam Co. Ltd. 1976 Guam

Proceeding s- Year of the South Pacific 1984 53 South Pacific CRMO
Pacific Conference, Saipan Conference Conference
1983.

SAIPAN LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT PLAN

FINAL DRAFT

VOLUME II

LAGOON AND SHORELILNE USE
MANAGEMENT PLAN

Prepared for
Coastal Resources Management Office
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

Prepared by
Duenas and Swavely, Incorporated
in Association with
Pacific Basin Environmental Consultants, Inc.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART ONE
INTRODUCTION

CHAPTER I PURPOSE AND SCOPE I-1
OF VOLUME II

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT
B. PROJECT AREA AND RELATIONSHIPS
TO OTHER PLANNING T-1
C. PURPOSES T -3
D. MAPS OF EXISTING DATA AND PLANS
FOR IMPROVEMENTS 1-4
E. ADOPTION OF THIS PLAN 1-4

CHAPTER II SUMMARY OF PLAN II-1

PART TWO
LAND USE PLAN ELEMENT

CHAPTER III LAND USE PLAN III-1

A. SYNOPSIS OF DATA ANALYSES
FROM VOLUME I AND IDENTIFICATION
OF PROBLEMS III-1
B. OBJECTIVES III-2

CHAPTER IV ZONING AND LAND USE DISTRICTS
PLAN FOR THE SAIPAN LAGOON
PROJECT AREA IV-1

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT IV-1
B. ADOPTION OF PROPOSED ZONES
AND LAND USE DISTRICTS IV-1

1. Segregation of Public
Recreation Areas from
Residential Zones IV-1
2. Expansion of Village Zone,
San Antonio IV-3
3. Additional Resort Zone in
Northern Saipan IV-3

C. RESORT ZONES ALONG THE SAIPAN
LAGOON SHORELINE IV-3
D. PAUPAU RESORT ZONE IV-6
E. ESTIMATED COST FOR ZONE AND
LAND USE DISTRICT AMENDMENTS
AND ENACTMENT IV-9

CHAPTER V LAND USE REGULATIONS V-1

A@ STATEMENT OF INTE@JT V-1
B. SHORELINE SETBACK REGULATIONS V-1
C. PROPERTY COVERAGE RATIO/PROPERTY
SETBACKS/HEIGHT REGULATIONS V-3

1. Lot Coverage Ratios V-3
2. Setback and Height Regulations v_6

D. SHORELINE FENCING REGULATIONS V-7
E. LANDSCAPING GUIDELINES V-9
F. ESTIMATED COST OF PROMULGATING
NEW LAND USE REGULATIONS AND
DISSEMINATING LANDSCAPING
GUIDELINES V-17

CHAPTER VI BEACH RESTORATION PLAN VI-1

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT VI-1
B. REGULATIONS FOR DREDGING,
DIKING AND LANDFILLING ALONG
COASTAL AREAS- VI-1
C. REGULATIONS FOR STRUCTURES IN
NEAR-SHORE AND BEACH STRAND
ECOLOGICAL ZONES VI-3
D. REGULATIONS FOR MINING ALONG
COASTAL AREAS VI-4
E. BEACH AND SHORELINE RESTORATION
PLAN V1-5

1. Typical Remedial Measures
For Beach Erosion VI-5
2. Non-s'ructural Measures VI-6
u
3. Structural Measures VI-8

F. RECOMMENDED SHORELINE EROSION
CONTROL STRUCTURES AND ESTI-
MATED COST OF STRUCTURES AND
PROMULGATING REGULATIONS FOR
COASTAL AREAS VI-13

CHAPTER VII INFRASTRUCTURE PLAN VII-1

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT VII-1
B. WATER FACILITIES PLANNING
FOR FUTURE SHORELINE USES VII-2

1. Scope of Work VII-3
2. Groundwater Management
Task Force VII-4
3. Estimated Cost and Project
Schedule VII-5

C. WASTEWATER FACILITIES PLANNING
FOR FUTURE SHORELINE USES VII-5

1. Scope of Work VII-6
2. Estimated Cost and Project
Schedule VII-8

D. STORM DRAINAGE DESIGN CRITERIA
MANUAL VII-8

1. Scope of Work VII-8
2. Estimated Cost and Project
Schedule VII-10

E. PLANNING CRITERIA FOR EVA-
UATING DEVELOPMENT IMPACTS
ON INFRASTRUCTURE VII-11

1. Water Service VII-12
2. Sewer Service VII-12
3. Electrical Power Service VII-13
4. Telecommunications VII-13
5. Roads and Parking VII-13

F. IMPACT EVALUATION BY MATRIX VII-14

PART THREE
LAGOON WATERS USE PLAN ELEMENT

CHAPTER VIII LAGOON WATERS USE PLAN VIII-1

A. SYNOPSIS OF DATA ANALYSES FROM
VOLUME I AND IDENTIFICATION OF
PROBLEMS VIII-1
B. OBJECTIVES FOR LAGOON USE PLAN
ELEMENT VIII-4

CHAPTER IX WATER RECREATION ZONES PLAN IX-1

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT IX-1
B. RECREATION USE ZONES FOR SAIPAN
LAGOON IX-1

1. Swimming Zones IX-1
2. Diving Zones IX-5
3. Boating Zones IX-5
4. Surfing IX-7
5. Water Recreation Advisory
Board IX-7
6. Cost Estimates for Estab-
lishing Recreation Use
Zones through an Advisory
Board IX-7

C. WATER SAFETY INFORMATION PROGRAM IX-8

1. Boating IX-9
2. Swimming IX-10
3. Cost Estimates for Water
Safety Information
Program IX-11

CHAPTER X WATER HAZARDS AND MARINE NUISANCE
ABATEMENT PLAN X-1

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT X-1
B. REMOVAL OF LAGOON HAZARDS X-1
C. LOCATION AND EXTENT OF MARINE
NUISANCE ANIMALS X-2
D. MARINE NUISANCE ABATEMENT PLAN X-4

1. Crown-of-Thorns Starfish
Nuisance Abatement Plan X-4
2. Jellyfish Nuisance Abate-
ment Plan X-5
3. Monitoring Program X-6

E. BUDGET ESTIMATE FOR MARINE
NUISANCE ABATEMENT AND HAZARDS
REMOVAL PLAN X-6

PART FOUR
BEACH PARKS AND RECREATION PLAN ELEMENT

CHAPTER XI BEACH PARKS AND RECREATION PLAN XI-1

A. SYNOPSIS OF DATA ANALYSES FROM
VOLUME I AND IDENTIFICATION OF
PROBLEMS XI-1
B. OBJECTIVES XI-2

1. Outdoor Recreation Plan XI-2
2. Upgrade Beach Parks XI-3
3. Establish New Beach Park XI-4
4. Bicycle Route XI-4

CHAPTER XII SAIPAN OUTDOOR RECREATION PLAN XII-1

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT XII-1
B. SCOPE OF WORK FOR SAIPAN OUTDOOR
RECREATION PLAN XII-1
C. COST ESTIMATE AND PROJECT
SCHEDULE XII-2

CHAPTER XIII BEACH PARKS AND SHORELINE
RECREATION FACILITIES
IMPROVEMENTS PLAN XIII-1

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT XIII-1
B. CLASSIFICATION OF SAIPAN
LAGOON BEACH PARKS AND
RECREATION AREAS XIII-1
C. PRELIMINARY NEEDS ASSESSMENT
AND IMPROVEMENTS PLAN FOR
VILLAGE PARKS AND PLAYGROUNDS XIII-4
D. PRELIMINARY NEEDS ASSESSMENT
AND IMPROVEMENTS PLAN FOR
COMMUNITY BEACH PARKS XIII-5
E. DESCRIPTION OF RECOMMENDED
IMPROVEMENTS AT BEACH PARKS XIII-6
F. COMMONWEALTH PARKS XIII-10
G. ESTIMATED COST OF PARK
IMPROVEMENTS XIII-10

CHAPTER XIV AFETNA BEACH PARK PLAN XIV-1

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT XIV-1
B. AFETNA BEACH PARK IMPROVEMENTS XIV-1
C. COST OF IMPROVEMENTS XIV-2

CHAPTER XV SAIPAN LAGOON SHORELINE BICYCLE
ROUTE PLAN XV-1

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT XV-1
B. PLANNING CRITERIA FOR THE
BICYCLE ROUTE XV-2
C. TYPICAL PROFILES OF BIKE ROUTES XV-3

1. Class I Bikeways XV-3
2. Class II Bikeways XV-5

D. BICYCLE ROUTE IMPROVEMENTS XV-10

CHAPTER XVI BEACH FACILITIES MAINTENANCE
PROGRAM XVI-1

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT XVI-1
B. FACILITY INVENTORY AND
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE XVI-1

CHAPTER XVII SOILS EROSION AND SEDIMENTATION
CONTROL TECHNICAL MANUAL XVII-1

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT XVII-1
B. SCOPE OF WORK XVII-1
C. COST ESTIMATE AND PROJECT
SCHEDULE XVII-3

PART FIVE
IMPORTANT HABITATS MANAGEMENT ELEMENT

CHAPTER XVIII IMPORTANT HABITATS MANAGE-
MENT PLAN XVIII-1

A. SYNOPSIS OF DATA ANALYSES
FROM VOLUME I AND IDENTI- XVIII-1

1. Mangrove Stands Habi-
tats XVIII-1
2. Coral Patch Reefs
Habitats XVIII-4
3. Managaha Island Under-
water Trail Plan XVIII-4
4. Seagrass Beds Habitats XVIII-5

B. OBJECTIVES FOR IMPORTANT HABI-
TATS MANAGEMENT PLAN ELEMENT XVIII-5

CHAPTER XIX IMPORTANT HABITATS MANAGEMENT
PLAN XIX-1

A. LEGISLATION FOR THE PROTECTION
OF IMPORTANT HABITATS XIX-1
B. IMPORTANT HABITATS MANAGEMENT
PLANS XIX-3

PART SIX,,
ENERGY FACILITIES PLAN ELEMENT

CHAPTER XX SITING CRITERIA FOR ENERGY
FACILITIES Xx_1

A. SYNOPSIS OF DATA ANALYSES
FROM VOLUME I AND IDENTI-
FICATION OF PROBLEMS xx-1
B. OBJECTIVES FOR ENERGY FACI-
LITIES SITING CRITERIA XX-2
C. SITING CRITERIA XX-2

1. Conventional Oil Fired
Energy Facilities Siting
Criteria XX-2
2. Coal Fired Energy Faci-
lities Siting Criteria XX-3
3. Biomass Fueled Energy
Facilities Siting Criteria XX-3
4. Solar Salt Gradient Energy
Facilities Siting Criteria XX-3

PART SEVEN
IMPLEMENTATION PLAN ELEMENT

CHAPTER XXI SUMMARY OF PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS XXI-1

CHAPTER XXII ADMINISTRATIVE, FINANCIAL AND
LEGAL REQUIREMENTS FOR IMPLE-
MENTATION OF PLANS XXII-1

A. COASTAL RESOURCES MANAGE-
MENT OFFICE XXII-1
B. ZONING ADMINISTRATION OFFICE XXII-3
C. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS XXII-3
D. DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RE-
SOURCES XXII-6
E. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH
AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES XXII-6
F. DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND
RECREATION XXII-7

CHAPTER XXIII IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF SAIPAN
LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT PLAN XXIII-1

vii

FART ONE
INTRODUCTION

CHAPTER I - PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF VOLUME II

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT

The SAIPAN LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT PLAN is the Commonwealth's
first comprehensive analysis and PLAN for managing the
Saipan Lagoon and its shoreline. Volume I of the PLAN
analyzes both original data as well as previously collected
information about the Lagoon itself and on-shore environs
between the coastline and Beach Road, in addition to
Managaha Island. In Volume II plans, programs, policies
and projects are recommended for managing the various uses
and resources associated with this project area. Where
appropriate, legislation, rules and regulations, and budgets
are included to implement the recommendations. Volume III
is a six-sheet set of maps which portray the PLAN's project
area and depict both the existing data and planned uses. An
Executive Summary of this PLAN is presented as Volume IV.

Volume I and II of the SAIPAN LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT PLAN are
relatively complex documents, because, by their nature, both
breadth and depth of data are required to accurately portray
the project area. This PLAN encompasses an area roughly
one-third the size of Saipan Island and reflects such diver-
gent uses and resources as energy facilities siting;
tourism; commerce; residential, commercial, industrial and
public land uses; infrastructure; public recreation and
facility maintenance; lagoon water quality; critical habi-
tats; beach erosion control; and soil erosion control. In
short, these two Volumes are not written for the public-
at-large but, rather, intended to guide more technical
applications of resource management by various agencies of
the Government of the Northern Mariana Islands. Chapter XXIV
specifically addresses the budgetary and scheduling aspects
of the PLAN in order to serve as a framework for implemen-
ting the various recommendations. In many cases, the
documents are also useful to developers contemplating pro-
jects within the Saipan Lagoon area.

B. PROJECT AREA AND RELATIONSHIPS TO OTHER PLANNING

While this PLAN studies lagoon and coastline issues more
broadly and more deeply than any other previous project, it
is, nonetheless, improper to think of development within

this project area as totally separable from the remainder of
Saipan's physical-and social development.

In fact, not one of the PLAN's recommendations for
improvement can be contained exclusively within the lagoon
and coastline area. The impact of each proposed
recommendation ultimately reaches beyond those geographical
boundaries to influence both social and economic development
of all Saipan. Some recommendations have an indirect effect
on the Commonwealth as a whole. Nor is it correct to think
of this PLAN's influence only in terms of the Lagoon's
integrated relationship with the island of Saipan to the
east. The Lagoon's harbor also serves as the only maritime
link between Saipan and other islands of the CNMI,
surrounding deep-water resources and oceanic commerce to the
west and beyond.

It can become difficult, therefore, to strike the exact
balance of which data, analyses and existing plans are rele-
vant to such an amorphous project area and, conversely,
which are not. For example, fishing w-ithin the Lagoon, per
se, can be quantified and qualified,, but those data are
insufficient to understand the importance of fishing's
contribution to family subsistence or as a second-income
generator within the Saipanese economy. Likewise,
recommendations for providing Lagoon-oriented recreation
opportunities to tourists must be gaged by the anticipated
growth of Saipan-bound tourists, a brand of market
forecasting which relies heavily on international economics . I
Additionally, the allocation of resort land-base and support
infrastructure for Saipan's largest economic sector is
subject to a myriad of supply and demand factors that
comprise the volatile, price-sensitive industry of tourism.

Exactly how much Saipan-wide or Commonwealth-wide social and
economic data should be incorporated into this PLAN becomes
a matter of good planning judgment and report editing of
existing documents. Volume I, "Data and Analysis" does not
repeat much of Saipan's basic historical and current data
relating to political status, commerce and trade, natural
resources, governmental services and private sector develop-
ment. While those subjects are naturally considered as
integral to any planning for Saipan, their data are
incorporated by reference into this PLAN from such
documents as listed below..

"Socioeconomic Development Plan for the Northern
Mariana Islands, 1978 to 1985 - Volume I and III'
"Physical Development Master Plan (1978) Volume II
Saipan"
111980 Census of Population - Northern Mariana Islands"
"Coastal Land and Water Use Plan, CNMI, May 197911
"Annual Reports - Marianas Visitors Bureau"

I - 2

"Overall Economic Development Strategy, 1981, 1982 and
198311 ,
1113roceed4nas - Year of 'he ?acific Conference, 198a,
South Pacific Conference"
"Annual Report to the United Nations in the
Administration of the Trust Territory of the Pacific
Islands," (Various Years)

In addition to buttressing this PLAN with a data base from
those documents, other plans which have been proposed for
the Lagoon and its coastline are also incorporated.
Specifically, the following proposed projects and programs
are integrated into this PLAN at appropriate places,
although not always without certain qualifications and
changes.

"Zones and Land Use Districts Study for Saipan, Tinian
and Rota, 198411
"Garapan Flood Control Project, 198411
"Chalan Kanoa/Susupe Redevelopment Project, 197911
"Small Boat Harbor-Saipan CNMI@ 1971"
"Saipan Water System Study,1982u
"Wastewater Facilities Plan for the Island of Saipan,
197817 -
"Port and Harbor Study of Saipan, CNMI, 198011
"Lake Susupe Flood Control, 198111
"American Memorial Park - General Management Plan and
Comprehensive Design, 198011

Finally, the data and analyses presented in Volume I of the
Plan, including the significant contributions and valuable
insights by the participants of SALAPAT (Saipan Lagoon
Planning Advisory Teams), provided the bulk of this volume's
technical and general planning data.

C. PURPOSES

The primary purposes of Volume II, SAIPAN LAGOON USE
MANAGEMENT PLAN are threefold:

To synopsize the Volume I data analyses and
identification of problems into six major
elements.

Land Us6 Element
Lagoon Use Element
Beach Park and Recreation Element
Lagoon Water Quality Management Element
Rare, Threatened and Endangered Habitats
Management Element
Energy Facilities Siting Criteria Element

I - 3

2) To. recommend appropriate plans, programs
policies and projects for managing the various
uses and resources within each Element of the
PLAN.
3) To determine administrative requirements and cost
estimates for implementing the recommendations.

D. MAPS OF EXISTING DATA AND PLANS FOR IMPROVEMENTS

Volume III is a six-sheet set of maps (one for each Planning
Area, except the Tanapag Harbor and Managaha Island Planning
Areas are combined on one sheet) which graphically portrays
much of the existing data for the project area in addition
to the planned improvements. These maps serve as a basic
reference for both Volume I and Volume II of the PLAN.

These maps are:

Sheet 1 - Puntan Magpi
Sheet 2 - Tanapag Harbor
Sheet 2 - Managaha Island
Sheet 3 - Puntan.Muchot
Sheet 4 - Garapan Lagoon
Sheet 5 - Puntan' Susupe
Sheet 6 - Puntan Afetna

E. ADOPTION OF THIS PLAN

This Volume of the PLAN recommends specific legislation,
rules and regulations, plans, programs, projects and poli-
cies for managing the Saipan Lagoon and its on-shore
environs. Legislative adoption of the PLAN shall be con-
strued as formal CNMI legislative support for the
recommended laws, rul4s and regulations, plans, programs,
projects, and policies'herein.

Table I-1 serves as an index to this PLAN's recommendations.

TABLE I-1
INDEX TO PLAN'S RECOMMENDATIONS

EXHIBIT (E) No.
FIGURE (F) No.
JABLE (T) No. FORM OF
SECTION (S) SHORT TITLE RECOMMENDATION

(S) IV.B Zones and Land Use District Legislation
Act of CNMI

(S) IV.B.1 Amendment to Section 9 of Legislation
Zones and Land Use District Act

(S) IV.B.2 Expansion of Village Zone, San Leaislation
Antonio-Zones and Land Use
District Act

(S) IV.B.3 Paupau Resort Zone in Northern Legislation
Saipan-Zones and Land Use
District Act

(E) V-1 Shoreline Setbacks Regulations-

(T) V-1 Property Setbacks, Structure Regulations
Heights and Densities

(E) V-2 Lot Coverage for Commercial Regulations
and Resort Zones

(E) V-3 Setback and Height Regulations Regulations
for Commercial and Resort Zones

(E) V-4 Shoreline Fencing Regulations Regulations

(E) VI-1 Landscaping Guidelines Government
Policy

(E) VI-1 Regulations for Dredging, Diking Regulations
and Landfilling along Coastal
Areas

(E) VI-2 Regulations for Structures Regulations
located on Near Shore and.Beach
Strand Ecological Zones

(E) VI-3 Regulations for Mining along Regulations
Coastal Strand

I - 5

(S) VI.E Beach and Shoreline Restoration Design &
Plan @ Construction

(T) VII.B.1 Shoreline Water Facilities Design &
Planning Construction

(S) VII.B.2 Groundwater Management Task Government
Force Program

(S) VII.C.1 Shoreline Wastewater Facilities Design &
Planning Construction

(S) VII.D.1 Storm Drainage Design Criteria Policy
(S) VII.E. Planning Criteria for Evaluating Policy
Development Impacts

(S) IX.B Recreation Use Zones for Saipan Improvements
Lagoon Plan

(S) IX.B.5 Water Recreation Advisory Board Government
Program

(S) IX.C Water Safety Information Program Government.
Program

(S) X.B Hazards Removal Plan Contractual
Service

(S) X.D Mar'ine Nuisance Abatement Plan Government
Program

(S) XII.3 Saipan Outdoor Recreation Plan Master Plan

(T) XIII-4 Improvements for Beach Design &
Parks - Natural,: Construction

(T) XIII-5 Improvements for Be'ach Design &
Parks - Developed Construction

(S) XIV.B Afetna Beach Park Improvements Design &
Construction

(F) XV-7 Bicycle Route Improvements Preliminary
Engineering

(T) XVI-1 Recreation Facilities and Program
Maintenance Schedule

(S) XVII.B Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Policy
Control Technical Manual

1 6

(E) XIX-1 An Act to Protect Important Legislation
.Habitats

(S) XIX.C Important Habitats Management Master Plan
Plans

(S) XX.C Energy Facilities Siting Criteria Policy

CHA@TER II - SUMMARY OF PLAN

This PLAN recommends the following plans, programs, policies
and projects to address the problems identified within each
of the Elements.

Amendments to Saipan's Zones and Land Use
Districts, as well as to the rules and regula-
tions to be promulgated thereto.

Regulations governing shoreline setback; property
coverage ratios; property setback/height limita-
tions; and shoreline fencing.

Landscaping guidelines for property development.

Regulations for shoreline landfilling, diking and
dredging.

Regulations for constructing shoreline struc-
tures.

Beach restoration structures.

Water facilities planning for future shoreline
uses.

A Wastewater facilities planning for future
shoreline uses.

Stormwater drainage facilities design criteria.

Planning , criteria for evaluating development
impacts on infrastructure.

Recreation use zones for the Lagoon.

Water safety information program.

Plan for removal of lagoon hazards.

Plan for abating marine nuisances.

Outdoor recreation plan for Saipan.

Improvements for -existing beach parks and
playgrounds.

New beach parks Puntan Afetna.

Shoreline bicycle route plan and improvements.

Maintenance program for beach facilities.

Technical manual for soil erosion and sedi-
mentation control.

Important habitats management plan.

An act to protect important habitats.

Criteria for siting coastal energy facilities.

Administrative, financial and legal requirements
to implement recommended plans, policies,
programs and projects.

11 2

PART TWO
LAND US E PLAN ELEMENT

CHAPTER III - LAND USE PLAN

A. SYNOPSIS OF DATA ANALYSES FROM VOLUME I DATA AND
IDENTIFICATION OF PROBLEMS

Land use planning for Saipan is in its embryonic stage. Two
different land use plans now exist in the form of the
"Physical Development Master Plan" prepared in 1978
for the Office of Transitional Studies and Planning and
the "Zoning and Land Use Districts Report" prepared for
the Costal Resources Management Office in 1984. While
both plans are basically compatible, neither carries the
necessary enforcement and regulatory authority for bona-
fide implementation. Without a legally adopted and enforce-
able land use plan and associated regulations, public and
private development will continue to determine land use on
an incremental, project-by-project basis. The legislative
adoption of this PLAN will enact the land use zoning plan
recommended in this Part Two.

The project area 'encompassed by this SAIPAN LAGOON USE
MANAGEMENT PLAN is especially vulnerable to disjointed land
use planning decisions because the coastline comprises a
mix of development ranging from Saipan's rural to most
urban, and includes residential, village, commercial,
resort, industrial and public uses. Infrastructure and
other community support facilities are, for the most part,
planned as a reaction to existing demands and development
pressures, rather than as a guide to the growth of social
and economic resources in accordance with a preconceived
plan. This situation is, of course, not unusual for
Micronesia in general, nor for most developing re-
gions. However, this need not be the case; and the SAIPAN
LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT PLAN is an appropriate vehicle
for strengthening land use planning and supporting regula-
tions for the project area.

Land use planning does occur, de facto: individual site
planning decisions for private and public projects,
extending infrastructure to new areas, resizing and
improving existing infrastructure, and islandwide program
planning and promulgation of regulations by such agencies as
the Marianas Public Land Corporation and the Department of
Public Health and Environmental Services all function,
cumulatively, as "land use planning". Unfortunately, this

III

occurs with sometimes self-defeating results. For example,
public subdivision developme.nt, leasing of public lands for
resorts, government-guaranteed loans for commercial pro-
jects, and new public facilities must be inextricably
coordinated with islandwide land use planning, timely infra-
structure improvements and increases in maintenance and
support operations. Otherwise, piecemeal improvements will
be negated by the inevitable problems they create through
placing impossible burdens for public services into the
hands of the local Government.

The basic land use pattern for Saipan, enabling legisla-
tion, and rules and regulations now under consideration by
the Legislature, (see "Zones and Land Use Districts for
Saipan, Rota and Tinian",March 1983), are generally
endorsed by this SAIPAN LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT PLAN.
Some of those proposed zones and land use districts within
the project area must be adjusted to conform with land use
planning goals and objectives established by this PLAN.
Additionally, supportive rules and regulations dealing with
landscaping, fencing, set-backs, height and property
coverage must be revised or, in some cases, established
for the first time.

Due to the interdependent nature of land use planning and
infrastructure development, it is necessary to supplement
this project area's Land -Use Plan Element with an
infrastructure plan that provides for an adequate capacity
of sewer, water and roads as well as design criteria for
storm drainage facilities. The last aspect of this Land Use
Plan Element involves a Beach Erosion Control Plan to remedy
seashore erosion along the Lagoon's shoreline.

B. OBJECTIVES

As a result of analyzing data and problems from Volume I,
several objectives were identified relating to land use
zones and regulations, infrastructure planning, infrastruc-
ture maintenance, and beach erosion control. Those
objectives have been consolidated into six basic plans
which collectively comprise the Land Use Plan Elefnent.

A Zoning Plan which adopts, in part, and adjusts
the Government's now proposed "Zones and Land Use
Districts Study". Two major purposes of adjusting
the proposed land uses are to distribute the Re-
sort Zone to another location along the Lagoon
shoreline and to segregate public recreation uses
from other Zones within the Urban Land Use
District.

III - 2

Regulations encompassing property coverage ratios,
set-backs, fencing, and height limitations, estab-
ii.qhed ,!i-t-In ;7@-- environrent-n'. Z -a " s -.;;. t i v i t tcwards
preserving view corridors and an open, non-
congested profile of shoreline development.
The proposed landscaping regulations, which
already accompany the Government's "Zones and
Land Use Districts Study" are customized to the
project area by this PLAN through including
references to Saipan-specific flora.

An Infrastructure Plan is needed to accommodate
the projected utility requirements generated by
the Land Use Plan Element. The Infrastructure
Plan must update (or establish) the Government's
existing facility plans for water and sewer so
that future CIP projects are designed to accommo-
date the preferred land use patterns.

A maintenance program must address the Govern-
ment's long standing efforts to wrestle con-
trol over its ponderous responsibility of
maintaining public recreation facilities with
pitifully inadequate resources of trained man-
power, reliable equipment and sufficient
materials.

A 8each Erosion Control Plan must account for
stabilization and preservation of the Beach Strand
and Near-Shore Ecological Zones. Shoreline
erosion is now occurring, and the likelihood of
additional development mandates immediate
attention to regulating fill and excavation
operations; dredging, diking and landfilling;
structures; and beach restoration projects.

Lastly, planning criteria for assessing the im-
pacts by residential, commercial and industrial
projects on public infrastructure and other
resources must be developed in order to better
evaluate the anticipated impact of proposed
projects.

CHAPTER IV - ZONING AND LAND USE DISTRICTS PLAN FOR THE
SAIPAN LAG OON PROJECT AREA

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT

The intent here is to amend, in part, and then have
enacted the Government's land use patterns as proposed in
its "Zones and Land Use Districts Study" for the Saipan
Lagoon shoreline areas covered by this PLAN. The amendments
provide for a Resort Zone along a portion of the project
area's northern shoreline, expanding the Village Zone of San
Antonio, and providing for a Recreation Zone in the Urban
District. With the exception of these amendments to the
text and official zoning and land use districts map for
Saipan, the Commonwealth's proposed Zoning and Land Use
District boundaries and regulations meet the goals and
objectives of this SAIPAN LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT PLAN. The
recommended zones are depicted on the applicable sheets of
the six-sheet set of Plans in Volume III.

B. - ADOPTION OF PROPOSED ZONES AND LAND USE DISTRICTS

In April 1984, the Commonwealth Government completed a
study which recommended zoning and land use districts
for Saipan, Rota and Tinian. The proposed legislation
and accompanying maps, regulations and procedures are
now undergoing legislative and public review as part of
their ultimate enactment.

In general, the proposed zones, districts and regula-
0
tions are compatible with the SAIPAN LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT
PLAN; and, with the three exceptions described below, the
Government's proposal is endorsed by this PLAN.

1. Segregation of Public Recreation Areas from Resi-
dential Zones

The "Zones and Land Use Districts Study" proposes that
parks, playgrounds and recreation areas are classified
as permissable uses within the zones of residential,
commercial, resort, and industrial. In the village
zone, open-space and recreation are listed as a
principle use.

While this system of land-use classification is fully
satisfactory for accommodating the park and recreation
uses as one of several aspects of community
development, it d-oes not provide for open space

IV - 1

and public recreation as a primary land use. This PLAN
finds that the importance of open space and public
recreation to be so s-*Lgnij`JLcant that it deserves
recognition as an exclusive zone for those large areas
relegated to such uses. Of course, park and recreation
uses should continue to be designated as permissible or
principle uses in the other zones, as originally
proposed.

It is recommended, therefore that the following
amended language be included into the Commonwealth's
"Zones and Land Use Districts Act". The new language
is underlined.

SECTION 9 URBAN DISTRICT: ZONES, USES, CHANGES

(a) Zones. The Urban District shall be
subdivided into six zones: Residential,
Commercial, Resort, Industrial, Village
and Recreation. The permissible land
and building uses for each zone are
described below.
A
(g) Recreation Zone Uses. The pur-
p6se of the Recreation Zone is to
provide for public open space, park
and recreation uses. While such
uses are also encouraged in other
zones as either permissible or prin-
cipal, this Recreation Zone is in-
Tended primarily for larger parcels
of land (generally larger than one
acre) which are exclusively de-
signated for passive or active
recreation purposes.

(1) Principal uses of th e Recreation Zone.
7aa) Public Parks.
(bb) Public open space.
(cc) Public sports and recreation
facilities.
(2) Permissible uses of the Recreation Zone.
(aa) Private concessions.
Tbb) Parking.
Tc-c-T-Historical and culturally signi-
ficant sites.
(dd) Com unity halls.
(ee) Non-conforming uses.

Conditional Uses of the Recreation Zone.
(aa) Flood plains.
(bb) Storm drainage percolation basins.

IV 2

(cc) Government and quasi-government
facilities.
(C!,d)Any permicted use located in
an Area of Particular Concern as
depicted on Coastal Resources
maps or regulations.
(ee) Other uses in consonance with
the zonels_purpose_ and character,
as determined by the Zoning
Administrator.

(4) - Prohibited Uses of the Recreation Zone.
(aa) All uses other than those speci-
fied as_ principal, permissible, or
conditional are prohibited for the
Re-creation Zone

These changes to the Government's proposed zones are
reflected in the six sheet Plan for Improvements, en-
closed in this Volume.

2. Expansion of Village Zone, San Antonio

This PLAN recommends the northern expansion of San
Antonio's Village Zone to include the 30 to 40 struc-
tures which now comprise the northern portion of the
community. This expansion is also reflected in Figure
IV-1 and should be incorporated into the official CNMI
Zone Map for Saipan.

3. Additional Resort Zone in Northern Saipan

This third and last proposed amendment is described in
Section C, Resort Zones along the Saipan Lagoon Shore-
line. This new zone is reflected in Figure IV-2 and
should be incorporated into the official CNMI Zone Map
for Saipan.

C. RESORT ZONES ALONG THE SAIPAN LAGOON SHORELINE

Recognizing the importance of Saipan's tourist industry to
CNMIIS overall economic development, proper land use
planning must provide for adequate land base, infrastructure
support and protection as well as enhancement of
environmental quality for both resorts and tourist-related
development. Within guidelines that promise to enhance the
Commonwealth's natural resources, while simultaneously
raising the standard of living through more and better-
paying jobs, tourist industry development is beneficial and
fostered by this SAIPAN LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT PLAN

Presently, two Resort Zones are proposed for Saipan: in
Garapan, approximately 40 acres in size, and in
IV - 3

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Susupe/Chalan Kanoa, about 30 acres, refer to Plan for
Improvements, Puntan Muchot Planning Area and PunL-.an
Susupe Planning Area. Long term tourist arrival projections,
coupled With the anticipated ancillary businesses which
proliferate around hotels and resorts, indicate a need for
additional land use designated as Resort zone.

The question of expanding Garapan's and Susupe's Resort
Zones verses that of designating other areas along the
shoreline must be evaluated in terms of tourist pre-
ferences, opportunities for peripheral development, and
general planning policies. The general planning policy
expressed by SALAPAT participants is that the Saipan
Lagoon shoreline should provide for tourist industry
development more or less uniformly, as opposed to con-
tinuing the concentrated development in only Garapan and
Susupe. While Garapan will serve as Saipan's
commercial/tourist center for the foreseeable future, that
municipality is also the Island's major residential
sector. Already the peripheral tourist-related businesses
have usurped the majority of former, downtown Garapan
residences on the Lagoon side of Beach Road and spurred a
transition of substantial downtown redevelopment. While
this is not necessarily detrimental to the community's
development (and certainly not unexpected) a limit does
exist after which tourist-related development enroaches upon
and consumes other beneficial characteristics of a
community. This PLAN recognizes that such a limit will be
reached for Garapan when the area now contained by the
proposed Resort Zone becomes fully saturated with tourist
industry development.

Likewise, Susupe is the Commonwealth's seat of Government as
well as a major residential area; and the existing, pro-
posed Resort Zone, while far from reaching it's point of
development saturation at this time, is permanently boxed-in
by other well established land uses.

Not much data has been collected and analyzed in order to
evaluate and articulate visitor preference from among Saipan
tourists. As with Guam's case, sun, sand and surf are
likely to rank among the highest desirable attributes of
Saipan as a destination. Additionally, Saipan's major role
in Japan's pre-WWII and WWII eras contributes an historical
preference by tourists from Japan.

Close proximity to the Lagoon waters and shoreline is always
an important criterion for siting resorts and for desig-
nating additional resort land base. This effectively
eliminates, expanding the Resort Zone in Garapan since
that zone's shoreline is blocked to the north by the
American Memorial Park and to the south by Government land
as well as by successively-narrowing beach front property.

While it can be argued that all but a few peripheral
businesses to hotels and resorts are community
assets, the opportunity for indirect economic arowth in
the form of retail shops of all kinds, restaurants, grocery
stores, entertainment and redtals are often common around
resort areas in small communities; and this business trans-
lates into local employment, higher property values and an
expanding tax base. To date, Garapan is the only municipa-
lity which has been able to fully capitalize on this
peripheral aspect of economic growth for Saipan's tourist
industry, although some evidence of this type of peripheral
growth is also beginning in Susupe. Distributing such
opportunities among other shoreline villages is consistent
with the aforementioned policy of balanced growth.

Two significantly large, undeveloped tracts of shoreline
still exist: one in the Tanapag/San Roque area and one in
the San Antonio vicinity. Additionally, both the Hopwood
Junior High School site as well as the San Antonio
Elementary School site have been offered for lease by MPLC
to prospective resort developers on the condition that the
respective schools be first'reconstructed at a. different,
suitable location. As for the northern Tanapag/San Roque
area, enough vacant land is available between Tanapag and
San Roque as well as north of San Roque to support full
scale resort development. As for developed land along the
Lagoon's southern shoreline, the former US Coast Guard
Station (now CNMI land) is large enough to support resort
development.

This PLAN recommends that north Saipan be targeted as the
next location for decentralizing the shoreline's existing
resort- development. The general (but not unanimous)
consensus to retain publicly owned shoreline lands, such as
the former Coast Guard Station, for public use precludes
this area from being leased to a private developer. On the
other hand, nearly all of the northern shoreline lands
within the PLAN's project area are in private ownership
and, therefore, not subject to public use.

D. PAUPAU RESORT ZONE

In northwestern Saipan a new Resort Zone is recommended
for the shoreline project area directly north of San
Roque, see Figure IV-2 and refer to Exhibit I-1.
Basically,only two choices present themselves for new resort
development within this portion of the project area: the
relatively undeveloped stretch of land between Tanapag and
San Roque which is bounded by the shoreline and Beach
Road; and the area being recommended, north of San Roque.

IV 6

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FOQU

The area lying between Tanapag and Sah Roque, which is
proposed by the "Zones and Land Use Study" as a Rural
District, comprises approximately 50 acres of easily devel-
opable land with prime beach frontage. However, this area
is unsatisfactory as a Resort Zone for the following
reasons.

Recognizing the future growth of both Tanapag and
San Roque between the shoreline and Beach Road, a
gradual residential infilling will likely take
place along Unai Achugao. Tanapag's growth poten-
tial to the south is eventually constrained by the
Tanapag Harbor and Industrial Area which is devel-
oping northward, towards the village, as well as
by other potential uses'in this vicinity such as
aquaculture. Tanapag's growth inland, across Beach
Road is always possible;:but Saipanese communities
display a clear propensity for coastal development
rather than inland, wherever sufficient coastal
land base is available.

Furthermore, land such as the area between Tanapag
and San Roque should not be designated for such
incongruous uses as resort and tourist-commercial
development between two relatively similar and
historically well-established residential commu-
nities. Acres of hotels, shopping centers and
enclaves of tourists situated between Tanapag and
San Roque are akin to building a sociological
barrier that will forever separate the community
and cultural comradery which now bonds these two
"north Saipan" sister villages.

Lastly, the peripheral economic and infrastruc-
ture amenities that accompany a major resort
development will not extend to San Roque if the
new Resort Zone is situated south of San Roque.
Because the major centers of business, government,
transportation and infrastructure are located in
central and southern Saipan, the orientation from
Tanapag and San Roque is generally directed
southward towards the major population centers.
Both Tanapag and San Roque can avail themselves
of an equitable degree of economic growth
opportunities only if that development is
designated northward of San Roque.

Therefore, the area.between Tanapag and San Roque should be
reserved for longterm future municipal growth of
both municipalities; and a new coastal Resort Zone should
be designated beyond that area of the two Villages' common
influence.

IV 8

The proposed new Resort Zone, designated Paupau Resort Zone,
is approximately 30 acres in size and parallels the northern
stretch of Unai Paupau. It is to be subject to the same land
use regulations prescribed for the other Resort Zones, as
established in the "Zones and Land Use Districts Studyff.
This new zone should be incorporated into the official CNMI
Zone Map for Saipan.

E. ESTIMATED COST FOR ZONE AND LAND USE DISTRICT
AMENDMENTS AND ENACTMENT

Because these amendments are incidental to the CNMI Zones
and Land Use Districts Act, no special costs are identified
for this Plan. The budget for implementing the proposed
CNMI zoning program was developed as part of the "Zones and
Land Use Districts for Saipan, Tinian and Rota" project at
an annual cost of approximately $150,000. This cost is not
reflected in the implementation costs for the SAIPAN LAGOON
USE MANAGEMENT PLAN.

CHAPTER V - LAND USE REGULATIONS

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT

The intent of this chapter of the PLAN is to propose new
regulations for shoreline setbacks, property coverage ratios
and height limitations, shoreline fencing, and supplement
the Government's existing proposed regulations for land-
scaping with examples of Saipan indigenous plants.

Section 5 (h) of the proposed Zoning and Land Use Act,
"Zones and Land Use Districts Study", authorizes the
Zoning Administrator to promulgate rules and regulations to
carry-out the intent and purposes of the Act. The Land Use
Regulations recommended in this Chapter should be
promulgated under that proposed Act. During the interim,
however, these Regulations could be promulgated by the
Coastal Resources Management Office under the authority of
Public Law 3-47.

B. SHORELINE SETBACK REGULATIONS

Exhibit V-1 presents the recommended shoreline setback
regulations.

EXHIBIT V-1
REGULATIONS
SHORELINE SETBACKS
(A) Authority. Section 5(f) of the'Zoning and Land Use
Act, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

(B) Scope of Regulations. The shoreline setback
regulations herein prescribed apply to all coasts
of the Commonwealth for all districts and zones,
except for Village Zones, where only Shoreline
Setbacks A and Al shall apply and except for
Industrial Zones where no shoreline setback regu-
lations shall apply. Shoreline setbacks shall be
measured inland from the mean high water level
contour as determined by a Registered Land
Surveyor of the Commonwealth.

Shoreline Setback A, Beach reservation zoffe-
from 0-35 feet for use as public access
and recreation. Gener-
ally, structures are pro-
hibited. Any proposed
development within this
V

Shoreline Setback By
from 35-75 feet No vertical construction
which will obstruct the
visual openness and con-
tinuity of the beach
area is permitted. Open
space, rest and recre-
ition areas, swimming
pools, terraces, land-
scaping and related out-
door improvements are
allowed. Parking areas
are not permitted.

Shoreline Setback C,
from 75-100 feet Single-story structures,
covered porches, trel-
lises and similar im-
provements not to exceed
12-feet in height
measured from the
natural grade line.
Parking is permitted.

Shoreline Setback D,
.from 100-feet or more Building height based on
Property Setback/Height
Regulations.

For any lot where thirty percent (30%) or more of the
land area is affected by the mandatory shoreline set-
back above, such seashore setback regulations are
modified as follows:

Shoreline Setback A-1,
from 0-20 feet Beach recreation zone
for use as public access
Shoreline Setback B-1, and recreation.
from 0-20 feet Shall be open space with
no vertical construction
or parking permitted.

Shoreline Setback C-1,
from 60-100 feet Single and two-story
structures only, with the
total height not to
exceed 20 feet.

V - 2

Shoreline Setback D-1,
from 100-feet or more Building height based on
proposed Property Set-
b
ac"
k/Height Regulations.-

Figure V-1, Shoreline Setback/Height Graph, graphically
depicts Shoreline Setbacks A,B,C and D.

C. PROPERTY COVERAGE RATIO/PROPERTY SETBACKS/HEIGHT
REGULATIONS

Setbacks, lot coverage ratios and height limitations are
interdependent functions of property development. The mini-
mum setbacks and maximum heights and lot coverage ratios
presented in Table V-1 are established by the Commonwealth's
proposed Zoning and Land Use Act.

These proposed regulations were established with the purpose
of applying to all Zones within all of the Commonwealth's
Urban Districts; therefore, they cannot be expected to exem-
plify any unique features or requirements of the Saipan
Lagoon project area, per se. With the data analysis from
Volume I of this project and SALAPAT-as a background,
however, the property setback, property coverage, and
height limitations for the Commercial-Zone and the Resort
Zone can be improved to reflect more'design flexibility' for
developers while protecting the project area's natural
beauty and openness.

1. Lot Coverage Ratios

Lot coverage for structures means the "footprint" of
buildings on the site and does not consider the floor
area of upper floors or the overall density of the
development. Where the first floor is elevated above
the ground level, its lot coverage ratio shall be based
on the proposed use for the area belo w the structure.

The lot coverage ratio for open space is considered to
include plazas, terraces, decks and other outdoor areas
which are not covered or walled, landscaped areas,.
recreation and open space, improved or unimproved
natural areas, covered storm water disposal areas, and
pedestrian walkways. The continuity, conservation and
maintenance of open space must be provided for; any
later modification must be first approved as a
variance.

V 3

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TABLE V-1
MINIMUM PROPERTY SETBACKS, MAXIMUM STRUCTORE
HEIGHTS AND DENSITIES FOR ZONES, PER
PROPOSED ZONING AND LAND USE ACT

MINIMUM PROPERTY MAXIMUM HEIGHT FOR MAXIMUM DENSITY
ZONE SETBACK FOR STRUCTURE STRUCTURES OF DEVELOPMENT

Residential 20' from primary and None, per se, except 6 units/acre for
secondary roadways. that a single or single and two-
10' from collector multi-family resi- family dwelling
roadways. 4' (front dential structure units.
yard) and 5' (rear shall not exceed a Lot coverage of
yard) for tertiary height that inhibits 40% for non-
roadways. access to sunlight sewered lots for
for adjacent lots. single-family
units.
Lot coverage of
50% for non-
sewered and 60%
for sewered lots
for multi-family
o units.

Commercial None 25' None

Resort 20' side yard 35' or eight 20 guest units/
stories acre

Industrial None 45' None

Village None None None

V - 5

EXHIBIT V-2
LOT COVERAGE REGULATIONS FOR
COMMERCIAL AND RESORT ZONES

(A) Authority. Section 5(f) of the Zoning and Land
Use Act, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana
Islands.

(B) Scope of Regulations. These regulations apply to
the Commercial Zone and to the Resort Zone as
established by Section 9(c) and (d), respectively
of the Zoning and Land Use Act, Commonmwealth of
the Northern Mariana Islands.

Commercial Zone Maximum lot coverage by
structures - 250P
Maximum lot coverage for
parking, roads and ser-
vice entries - 45%
Minimum lot coverage by
for open space - 30%

Resort Zone Maximum lot coverage by
structures - 20%
Maximum lot coverage for
parking, roads and ser-
vice entries - 35%
Minimum lot coverage
for open space - 45%

2. Setback and Height Regulations

The major considerations when evaluating property
coverage ratios and setback-height standards are light,
air, open space, compatibility with adjacent uses,
preservation of scenic views and the overall aesthetics
and character of the area. The objective with such
regulations is to devise a formula which, on one hand,
safeguards environmental design principles without, on
the other hand, imposing burdensome and restrictive
standards on a developer.

Recognizing, therefore, the potential and the need for
economic development in CNMI as well as the imperative-
ness for general site design standards, the following
regulations (Exhibit V-3) are recommended for commer-
cial and resort zones to replace those now proposed in
the "Zones and Land Use Districts Study."

v - 6

EXHIBIT V-3
SETBACK AND HEIGHT REGULATIONS FOR
COMMERCIAL AND RESORT ZONES

(A) Authority. Section 5(f) of the Zoning and Land
Use Act, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana
Islands.

(B) Scope of Regulations. These regulations apply to
the Commercial Zone and Resort Zone as established
by Section 9(c) and (d), respectively , of the
Zoning and Land Use Act, Commonwealth of the
Northern Mariana Islands.

(C) Setback and Height Regulations. A heiaht-setback
graph is provided for each zone. These curves
reflect the relationship between the height and
the space between buildings. Additionally it is
recommended that taller buildings be clustered in
a manner to minimize the impact of each individual
tower. Certain concessions in the setback-heiaht
standards can be proposed where a desirable con-
cept of clustering is possible.

(D) Hdight/Setback Graph. See Figure V-2.

D.- SHORELINE FENCING REGULATIONS

While indiscriminate shoreline fencing is not now a signifi-
cant problem along the Saipan Lagoon shoreline ' the
Commonwealth should promulgate specific regulations to pre-
vent any undesirable situations where such fences may create
access or aesthetic problems. Exhibit V-4 proposes
such regulations. EXHIBIT V-4
SHORELINE FENCING REGULATIONS

(A) Authority. Section 5(f) of the Zoning and Land
Use Act, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana
Islands.

(B) Scope of Regulations. These regulations apply to
all properties within the first 75 feet landward
from the mean high water level.

(C) Conformity With Other Regulations. Shoreline
Setbacks A and B as established by the Common-
wealth's duly promulgated Shoreline Setbacks are
hereby incorporated into the Shoreline
Fencing Regulations.

V - 7

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60-
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(IN r MT) 50 -

40-

Pv %4

10- 0 0

10 %0. 40 go (00 10 80 90 100
O-ToAeK or -5,TRLYTIJFca
04

(D) Supplemental Regulations to Shoreline Setback
Regulations A. The Zoning Review Board and the
Coastal Resources Management Office shall not
approve any construction for fences in this 0-35
feet setback.

(E) Supplemental Regulations to Shoreline Setback
Regulations B. In the event that fencing is per-
mitting by the Zoning Review Board and the
Coastal Resources Management Office within the 35-
75 feet shoreline setback such fencing must com-
ply with all of the following criteria:

1. Such fencing shall not exceed 30" (thirty inches)
in height or 2411 (twenty-four inches) in width.

2. Such fencing shall not extend seaward beyond a
point which is 251(twenty-five feet) from the
mean high water level contour.

3. Such fencing shall be primarily constructed of
indigenous materials. Barbed wire is especially
prohibited.

4. Such fencing shall not be used as a foundation
for any objects extending vertically or horizon-
tally from the fencing itself.

5. Such fencing which is lying perpendicular or
askew of the coastline shall be provided with
either ground level openings or with steps, both
of sufficient size and convenience to
accommodate easy pedestrian access.

E. LANDSCAPING GUIDELINES

Exhibit V-5, below, is adopted from the "Zones and Land Use
Districts" report and supplemented with species of indi-
genous vegetation that are suitable for the respective
landscaping guidelines.

V - 9

EXHIBIT V-5

GUIDELINES FOR LAN DSCAPING

The Authority for these regulations is Section 5('L) of the
proposed Zoning and Land Use Act, Commonwealth of the
Northern Mariana Islands.

GUIDELINE No. 1 Development should promote the lagoon's
scenic qualities.

Variations in the natural coastline, beaches, and reef
should be visually accessible.

Lagoon and beach activities should be visually
featured.

On-shore topography and natural vegetation should be
retained.

Areas of particular concern should continue to be
protected by legislation. Unique ecological areas
and significant stands of tropical limestone vegetation
should be preserved through site development plans
which protect such areas and vegetation from
degradation by nearby construction.

GUIDELINE No. 2 Establish complementary relationships bet-
ween development and the lagoon shoreline.

Maintain continuity of land form, topography and
transitions to the beach. Minimize the use of retain-
ing walls, dikes and seawalls. Design seawalls to
also serve as benches and soften their appearance by
providing tropical landscaping such as Hibiscus hedge,
Panama Cherrytree, Coconut Palm, Beach Morning Glory
and various beach grasses.

Maintain, define and develop beach access points.
Provide for continuous beach walkways and incorporate
beach walkways into aLll shore development, including
the provision of benches, trash receptacles, low-level
lighting and other convenienc es. Public access to the
beach should be established through pedestrian arcades
and public corridors.

Maintain a open-view corridors to the Lagoon. Orient
buildings perpendicular to the shoreline to allow view
corridors between buildings., Open buildings at the
ground level to permit views.

V 10

Parking adjacent to shoreline areas is subject to the
prevailing Seashore Setback Regulations. Screen all
views C.' parl<ing 1.n or"Ia.- to p--_-mot_- the nat,_,ral La6con
and shoreline setting.

Preserve stands of Coconut Palms, Ironwood, Flame,
Kapok, Breadfruit, Barringtonia, Banyan and other
mature trees. Clearing of low-level scrub such as
tangan-tangan, and various grasses within and adjacent
to
t, the shoreline is encouraged to enhance views and
provide for public security. Existing, tall Palm,
Barringtonia, Ironwood, Banyan, Kapok, Breadfruit,
Messerschmidia and Flame trees should not be damaged
or removed.

GUIDELINE No. 3 Encourage accessibility to community assets
which provide a sense of orientation,- recognition and visual
interest.

Maintain and improve the quality of open space areas
and access to them for recreational purposes.

Maintain and improve accesses from the beach to park
and recreation facilities.

Relate proposed developments visually and functionally
to adjacent roadways and pedestrian walkways. Provide
amenities such as rest areas, landscaping of natural
flora, lighting, and appropriate street furniture.
Plantings of low vegetation such as the Beach Sun-
flower, Dwarf Poinsettia, Beach Morning Glory or other
common ground cover within rights-of-way are en-
couraged.

Relate proposed developments to nearby historic areas.

GUIDELINE No. 4 Development shall promote a positive visual
image and impression of Saipan's character.

Resort, hotel or tourist industry facility environments
should reflect a feeling of relaxation and leisure.
The intensive building, congestion and activity of
urban settings are discouraged.

Emphasize recreation, and pedestrian activity and
landscaped open space.

Consideration should be given to preservation and
improvement of the natural beauty of the proposed
project site with emphasis on open space,, water
features, natural land form, and vegetation such as
that found in the limestone forest, beach strand or
savannah.

V - 11

Consolidation of properties into the largest possible
parcel is encouraged. Subdivision of property into
SM21ler parcels is discouraged unless justified by an
overall site master plan too be implemented through
specific construction in consonance with the projected
development.of the basic lot.

Utilize green areas for on-site disposal of stormwater.
Landscaped percolation basins, grass covered ponding
basins, recreation and open-space areas and areas of
natural vegetation will provide capacity for recharge
of stormwater run-off. Ponding areas covered with
various short grass such as Bluegrass Japanese grass
or other appropriate types can be used.

Adequate lighting should be provided for outdoor areas.
Lighting should have a precisely defined purpose and
not be disruptive to the adjacent surroundings or to
the overall environment. Light poles should be no more
than 15-feet in height, with underground electrical
service.

Screen all service and mechanical areas by using
natural vegetation hedges such as Hibiscus, Crotans or
close-cropped Ironwood.

Create hills and berms to integrate overall land and
building forms. Accentuate natural land form in order
to define the character of development and to promote
the natural setting.

Provide underground, covered or screened parking.
Screened parking is easily accomplished by hedges of
Hibiscus, Crotons or Ironwood.

GUIDELINE No. 5 Use design elements to express function, use
and tropical setting.

Provide variety in building envelope, wall plane and
roof shape. Break structures into related components,
with distinctive appearance.

Link buildi.ngs and activities through the use of
vestibules, covered passages, terraces and arcades.

Promote ind-oor-outdoor relationships. Public spaces
can be open to the outside to allow for natural breezes
and the experience of the tropical environment.

Utilize recessed entries as shaded transitions.

Promote natural ventilation of spaces. Orient for
maximum wind exposure. Provide breezeways to capture
cooling breezes.
V -12

Give consideration to treatment of entry, windows,
cornices and other building elements that contribute to
S 'C' y 1 e - I

Consult architectural and construction references for
energy-conscious design features.

Balance the use of concrete and masonry with the use of
natural materials. Naturally-weathering materials
provide a pleasant appearance with minimal maintenance
requirements.

Permanent structures are encouraged. Temporary
structures such as mobile homes and pre-engineered
steel buildings and structures made of corrugated metal
sheeting are not desirable for the long term appearance
of the Lagoon area.

Utilize distinctive ground.textures for visual charac-
ter and continuity.

The nature, size, s@hape, style and lighting of all
signs should be in harmony with the Lagoon setting and
in conformance with prevailing Sign Regulations.

Signs should be subordinate to buildings and fit within
existing features of the structure.

GUIDELINE No. 6 The proportion and scale of buildings should
relate to human scale.

Structure should not dominate adjacent streets,
pedestrian spaces and neighboring properties.
Pedestrian viewpoints should relate to both the size
and detail of buildings.

Provide for transitions between building scale and
street scale through the use of plazas, trellises with
overhanging plants such as epiphytic ferns from the
limestone forest, street furniture, landscaping and
other outdoor features which relate to human scale.

Extend form and relieve the massiveness and/or height
of structures through the use of transitional elements.
Ancillary structures such as entrance canopies,
trellises, porches, stairs, terraces, plazas, gardens
and other exterior spaces provide shade and inviting
spaces, while enhancing the human scale of buildings.

Soften the bulk of structures by breaking them into
smaller components. Examples include the use of
several, connected structures in lieu of one large

V - 13

imposing structure and provision of lower, ancillary
buildings which surround tower structures.

Vary the wall plane, height and fenestration to provide
an interesting configuration and silhouette.

Use roof forms which enhance the structure's overall
scale; also, blend various forms.

Soften the bulkiness of structures through the use
of landscaping with local vegetation like Coconut and

Betel Nut Palm, Hibiscus, Bamboo, Panama Cherrytree,
Soursap, Papaya, Pandanus, Flame tree and other appro-
priate flora incorporated within the form of buildings.

GUIDELINE No. 7 Promote continuity of a proposed
development with adjacent areas.

A structure's scale adjacent to the street shall
relate to pedestrian scale.

Provide a Yariety of setback and exterior spaces
separating adjacent developments.

Provide adequate open space as a component of the
project.

Provide transitions between the structure's heights and
the boundaries of the site. Construction at a corner
site shall be less imposing in order to diffuse and
open-up intersections.

Use special care in siting of high-density residential
buildings where they are located adjacent to low-
density residential developments.

The effect of tall structures on natural air
circulation and wind turbulence should be considered.
Building shadows should not interfere with neighboring
activities.

A building significantly taller than its surroundings
can experience high wind loads and create pedestrian-
level winds.

Provide unobtrusive parking, walkway and landscape
lighting for safety and public security.

GUIDE'LINE No. 8 Integrate infrastructure and service
elements in an unobtrusive manner.

V - 14

The underground installation of power, telephone and
television service within the site are strongly
encouraged.

Locate automobile and bus parking areas to the rear of
buildings whenever possible. Screen parking areas at
boundaries and break-up large, paved areas with islands
that are land scaped in a natural setting.
0

GUIDELINE No. 9 Protect existing landscaping and design new
landscaping around existing vegetation, especially mature
trees and planting.

Existing trees and groupings such as coconut Palm,
Ironwood, Barringtonia, Flame, Banyan, Pandanus,
Papaya, Panama Cherry, Soursap, established in their
natural condition, should be retained and protected
during construction.

Selective pruning and removal are desirable in order
to open specific vistas, to give shape and dimension
to vegetative groupings, to create functional open
space, and to frame architectural elements.

Prune and shape existing vegetation for viewing and
to preserve mature Coconut Palm, Ironwood,
Barringtonia, Flame, Banyan, Pandanus, Papaya Cherry,
Soursap trees.

Parking area layouts should incorporate existing trees
to the greatest extent possible.

Buildings should be located with respect to preserving
large stands of mature trees.

Maintain visual continuity of existing vegetation by
replacing cleared areas with new landscaping of similar
species composition.

GUIDELINE No. 10 Utilize landscaping as functional solutions
to site development.

Utilize landscaping for t raffic and circulation control
to screen objectional views of service and mechanical
areas and to provide privacy by utilizing hedges of
various Hibiscus species or thick Ironwood.

Buffer and shade parking areas with Coconut Palm,
Banyan, Barringtonia, Ironwood, Breadfruit or other
large trees to provide 'relief from sun glare and to
reduce surface temperature of paved areas. Large paved
areas are hot and uninteresting, landscaping cools and
shades parking lots.

V - 15

Utilize landscaping of appropriate height vegetation in
order to enchance building line and form, to unfold an
attractive vista or to frame a view. Islands of
inters,persed landscaping with a glimpse of the ocean
may be more effective than a block-view or a sweeping
panorama of horizon.

Utilize ground cover of varying heights and types to
shade, cool and direct breezes, to absorb unpleasant
sounds, smells and dust, and as erosion control on
steep banks.

In some cases, plantings themselves become a focal
point of development. Large planting groups re-
presenting natural tropical settings such as the
limestone forest or beach strand, are strong deter-
minants of spatial form.

Provide other landscape elements including rock forms,
water and sculptures.

Landscape storm-water percolation basins with local
ground cover such as the Beach Sun Flower or common
grasses, to.- ensure attractive and maintained open
space.

GUIDELINE No. 11 Utilize informal landscaping techniques to
enhance the natural setting of the Lagoon area.

Random planting and naturalness should be created by
planting to blend with the natural environment, like
that which is found in the limestone forest, savannah
or beach strand.

Plant in mass. Large trees such as Coconut,
Breadfruit, Pandanus, and other natural forms of large
and small plants should be grouped into clusters as
simple landscape elements.

Consider seasonal variation of color, loss of leaves
and susceptibility to pest attack. Transient floral
aspects, no matter how striking, should not be the sole
basis of selection unless the specimen is also a
sound selection when not in flower.

Landscaping lighting shall be low level. Underlighting
0
of plantings can serve also as walkway lighting. Limit
any illumination spotting to specimen trees and to
dominant landscape forms.

V - 16

F. ESTIMATED COST OF PROMULGATING NEW LAND USE REGULATIONS
AND DISSEMINATING LANDSCAPING GUIDELINES

Provisions for promulg2ting new or amended land use regula-
tions are prescribed in the Zones and Land Use Districts
Act. This procedure would be carried-out by staff of the
proposed Zoning Administration Office staff as provided by
the Act or, in the interim, by the Coastal Resources
Management Office, and involve a period for becoming
familiar with the materials, coordination among other
agencies, and public hearing expenses. The Landscaping
Guidelines should be printed for dissemination to
prospective developers. The estimated cost for promulgating
the regulations and printing the guidelines is $2,000.

V - 17

CHAPTER VI- BEACH RESTORATION PLAN

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT

The intent of this section of the PLAN is to recommend both
regulatory as well as preliminary plans for structural and
non-structural improvements for protecting the beach along
Saipan Lagoon. The regulatory measures address three
activates which now affect the beach strand and near-shore
ecological zones. They are:

Regulations for dredging, diking and land-
filling along coastal areas;
Regulations for mining along coastal areas;
and
Regulations for structures which are located
within the near-shore or beach strand
ecological zones.

Appropriate structural and non-structural remedial measures
for protecting and restoring beach erosion sites are adapted
to the Lagoon's coastline and specific measures, are
recommended.

B. REd ULATIONS FOR DREDGING, DIKING AND LANDFILLING ALONG
COASTAL AREAS

Exhibit VI- 1, below, contains these proposed regulations.

EXHIBIT VI-1
REGULATIONS FOR DREDGING, DIKING AND LANDFILLING
ALONG COASTAL AREAS

1. Authority. Public Law 3-47, Commonwealth of the
Northern Mariana Islands.

2. Prohibited dredging, diking and landfilling
along coastal areas. The dredging, diking or
landfilling of coastal wetlands is prohibited.

3. Conditions for permitting landfilling, diking and
dredging. Landfilling, diking and dredging shall
be permitted only as part of a wetland or
esturine restoration plan and under the auspices
of a permit approved by by the Coastal Resources
Management Office, Commonwealth of the Northern
Mariana Islands and

VI - 1

of a permit approved by by the Coastal Resources
Management Office, Commonwealth of the Northern
Mariana T31ands and

a) as part of an approved maintenance dredging
project; or

b) as part of a port expansion; or

c) as part of an energy facility for which
there is no alternative location that would
result in less environmental damage.

4. Conditions upon approval for dredging. When
dredging is allowed in accordance with Section 3,
above, such dredging shall:

a) avoid unnecessary disruption to biological
communities and water circulation through
planning and scheduling of dredging
operations;

b) shall avoid the dredging of toxic bottom
materials; and

c) shall provide for the isolation and treat-
ment of spoils material or for its disposal
on land so- as to -prevent pollution of
marine, surface and underground waters.

5. Disposal of dredged material. Dredged material
which is suitable for beach replenishment shall
be transported to appropriate beaches designated
by the Coastal Resources Management Office.
After a thorough assessment of potential disposal
sites, all other dredge spoils shall be dis-
posed at either:

a) dry land in authorized fill sites; or

b) in marine areas where studies demonstrate
that it can be used with minimal environ-
mental impact; or

c) in deep ocean areas subject to Federal and/or
Commonwealth guidelines and at sites chosen
so as to minimize adverse impacts to marine
organisms.

VI - 2

EXHIBIT VI-2
REGULATIONS FOR STRUCTURES LOCATED IN
NEAR 9H00v AND REITY "04"D ElnT n-T-lr

1. Authority. Public Law 3-47, Commonwealth of the
Northern Mariana Islands. '

2. Conformance with other regulations. These
regulations shall supplement other prevailing
applicable regulations for structures located in
near shore and beach strand ecological zones such
as those regulations administered by the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers.

3. Prohibited structures. Structures on the open
beach strand shall be prohibited except for those
necessary for public health, safety or welfare.

4. Conditions for approval. Near-shore and beach
strand structures shall be permitted only when
required:

a) to maintain and serve public recreation areas
or necessary public service facilities where
there is no less environmentally harmful
alternative; or

b) to protect existing developments where the
Coastal Resources Management Office deter-
mines that the public interest would be
better served by such protection then
instead, by protecting the natural shoreline
processes.

5. Repair of structures. Repair, replacement or
reconstruction of shoreline structures shall be
planned and designed to protect and enhance
marine life conditions. Existing shoreline struc-
tures which cause water pollution and fish habitat
degradation shall be required to conform with
these regulations within one year of the effec-
tive date of these regulations.

D. REGULATIONS FOR MINING ALONG COASTAL AREAS

Exhibit VI-3, below, contains these proposed regulations.

EXHIBIT VI-3
REGULATIONS FOR MINING
ALONG COASTAL STRAND

1. Authority. Public Law 3-23, Commonwealth of the
Northern Mariana Islands.
VI - 3

D. REGULATIONS FOR MINING ALONG COASTAL AREAS

Exhibit, VI-3, below, contains 'L-.hese proposed regulations.

EXHIBIT VI-3
REGULATIONS FOR MINING
ALONG COASTAL STRAND

1. Authority. Public Law 3-23, Commonwealth of the
Northern Mariana Islands.

2. Mining along beach strand. Mining activities
within the beach strand ecological zone are
prohibited.

3. Mining along other coastal areas. Mining may be
permitted in other coastal areas if it can be
demonstrated that:

a) such extractions cannot be feasibly supplied
from inland locations; and

b) such extractions will not have substantial or
longlasting adverse impact on coastal zone
resources; and

c) th-e sand supply at the extraction site is
sufficient to allow mining without 'adverse
impact; and

d) buffer areas are provided to screen in-land
mining from coastal areas; and

e) mined areas will be reclaimed and replanted;
and

f) mined and dirty surface water pollution and
waste materials and spoils disposal are
controlled to minimize adverse impacts.

4. Mining along coastal streams. Excavations
affecting coastal streams shall be permitted only
when necessary for flood control and only if con-
sistent with approved Commonwealth plans. Such
excavation requires mitigation measures to:

a) maintain sand transport capability;

b) replace all fish, wildlife and habitat
values; and

c) protect recreational values.

VI - 4

E. BEACH AND SHORELINE RESTORATION PLAN

The Sa4-an Layoon shc-elire zu-ffers 'r0r. be-n ch erosicn !M t
several sites, see Figure VI-1. In most cases, this erosion
has been a progressive, long-term effect; however, periodic
storm waves have accelerated some beach changes, especially
when accompanied by high tides.

The causes of these beach erosion areas have not been
studied and are not well understood at this time.
Engineering investigation of existing coastal geology and
oceanography processes must occur before major restoration
projects are undertaken. However, several types of remedial
measures are already well developed by the U.S. Army @orps
of Engineers; and their general planning applications and
design principles are appropriate for certain Saipan Lagoon
beach erosion sites. Such recommended measures are not to
be construed as a substitute for professional engineering
services which are prerequisite to properly designed shore-
line restoration. Rather, they are described and
recommended as guidelines for those restoration plans.

1. Typical Remedial Measures for Beach Erosion

Various methods can be employed to protect property
from beach erosion and other wave-induced damages and
to replenish eroded beaches. Understanding the causes
of erosion and the principles of design are the two
keys in selecting the proper remedial measure. Esta-
blished design principles include:

adequate bedding for structural foundations;
flank protection of revetments by return
walls;
structural stability of bulkheads or other
structural devices;
stone underlayers and filters beneath armour
stone; and
adequate elevation to prevent severe over-
topping by waves.

Erosion control measures are categorized as either
non-structural or structural. Non-structural measures
may include:

taking no action (not considered in this
PLAN);
regulation of shoreline uses;
relocation of existing buildings and roads
away from eroding land;
beach fill and nourishment;
piling supports for structures; and
planting vegetation.

VI - 5

3001+-

5201+

.21901+

Structural measures should be considered only when non-
structural measures cannot achieve the required
shoreline n-rotecti-on. Si-"iici-U-r21 r z @'
.i-ensure- M12Y include-

revetments;
seawalls;
other devices which protect. the shoreline
from direct erosion by waves;
groins;
offshore breakwaters; and
other devices which protect the shoreline by
controlling sand transport.

2. Non-structural Measures

Obviously, some measures have interchangeable and/or
multiple functions; but serious consideration is always
given first to non-structural measures because they
require the least effort (expense) and generally have
the least adverse impact on the environment.

Three types of appropriate non-structural measures for.
the Saipan Lagoon shoreline are described below.

a) Shoreline Management. This is the remedial-
measure employed most fully. Preserving existing
vegetation, strategic planting of erosion-
resistant vegetation and requiring buildings and
other structures to be located landward of
erosion constitute the most effective measures
for protecting property from coastal damages.
This measure is implemented by virtue of the
Seashore Setback Regulations proposed in the Land
Use Plan Element of this SAIPAN LAGOON USE
MANAGEMENT PLAN.

b) Beach Fill and Nourishment. A sandy beach,
provides natural protection against wave attack;
but continuous erosion will eventually result in
the long-term loss of sand. If that loss is
replenished with new material, the beach recession
can be abated. Such nourishment measures require
medium to coarse gravel sand compatible with that
being replaced, to be successful. The sand fill
can be dumped in a continuous blanket directly
upon the eroded area, in stock piles at regular
intervals along the beach, or*on a-feeder beach
updrift of the eroding beach, allowing for
wave action to distribute the material.

Beach nourishment simulates a natural erosion
control measure, and the resulting beaches are

VI - 7

aesthetically pleasing and provide recreation
opportunil(ties. However, this may become an expen-
sive measure because the capacity of waves to
remove sand could be so great as to preclude
economic feasibility. Furthermore, a sand beach
without some sort of structural back-up may not
provide adequate protection against waves
generated by periodic tropical storms and
typhoons. Also, the regular displacement of sand
from one area to another may be injurious to
marine habitats.

See Figure VI-2, Typical Beach Fill, for the
cross-section.view of this measure.

W1 To 100

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0;:Z PE.ICIHT OP=
9 X @5T 11, 16. S e'-<V'J

AFFR'O
X
@H F1 W. WATEIZ L@pm=_L

P_Xll@ C1 e-':rOLJI"P
FROF I L@F_

TYF't6,4[, PEACH FILA_

C) Vegetation. Although planting vegetation is most
commonly associated with erosion protection of
sand dunes (which do not occur along the Saipan
Lagoon shoreline) this remedial measure does offer
some value to the project area.

VI - 8

Vegetation counteracts erosion because root
systems bind the soil and also forms protective
-mats which resist erosion. Low-growing grasses
and coastal shrubs that spread thickly and have
extensive root systems are useful., such as Wedel-4-n-
biflora; Beach Morning Glory, Ipomoea pes-caprae;
and Scaevola taccada. Trees such as ironwoods are
effective as coastal windbreaks.

Of course, few species of vegetation can survive a
constant onslaught of inundation by seawatqrs; and
it takes considerable time to establish a dense
growth, even under ideal conditions. Consequently,
the vegetation which does exist along the Saipan
Lagoon shoreline serves a valuable, time-tested
purpose and must be preserved and nurtured.

3. Structural Measures

Four types of structural measures are appropriate for
the Saipan Lagoon shoreline. They are stone
revetments, masonry gravity walls, bulkheads and sand
grabbers.

a) Stone Revetments.' A revetment is nothing more than
a protective facing which covers a slope from
direct erosion by waves. Properly designed,
revetments are time-proven measures for shore
protection. They can be constructeq of various
materials, but large coral boulders (armour
stones) are the most economical for Saipan. The
armour stones must be large enough or
interconnected in order to resist dislodging by
waves. Also, armour stone revetments require:
proper filter' material to prevent loss of
slope material through the voids between
stones;
bedding stone to distribute the weight of the
armour stones; and
protection of the slope's toe and flanks.

Generally the slope of revetments should not be
steeper than 30%; and the quarry stones should be
clean and free of cracks and cleavages. The largest
stone should be not greater in size than three times
smallest stone, ruling out the use of broken asphalt or
concrete -rubble as armour material.

Advantages of revetments as remedial measures for
shoreline erosion include:

VI - 9

high resistance to wave damage;
flexibility in that they can settle into
underlyinr, so-L."L.3 and experience minor
damage but still function without major
repairs; and
resistance to wave run-up and overtopping due
to their rough surface.

The disadvantages of revetments include:

the heavy equipment and special skills needed
to place armour stones;
relative expense of quarried coral which
is suitable for armour stone; and
the large area required to construct the
structure; and
unaesthetic appearance compared to non-
structural measures.

See Figure VI-3 for a typical revetment section.

ft4mT To L4mrroF
ARMOK UNrr Hakvy
SNOU4R To FM515T
MOYEMENT 13Y WAVES

TYPI
y-.r, or- smAw.Eg
(1/10 WSIART-OF
AINW U14IT-5)
TOE t I
r_&XIMUH 0-=FTH 1/-+"To 100 t-15.
3COUR STONR Olz wovr.N puAspe,
FIL-T5X ctorri

TYP16At, [email protected]

b) Masonry Gravity Valls. Masonry gravity walls
are common shoreline protection structures along
coastal beaches. The wall must be designed so as

VI - 10

to resist the pressures of the retained'saturated
soil that tends to topple the wall seaward. This
normally is accomplished by provid-ing a broad base
and by battering the backface of the wall away
from the shore (See typical cross section in
Plate VI-4).

An engineering design analysis is needed to assure
that the wall is structurally stable. The base of
the wall must be well below the maximum
anticipated scour on its seaward side; and
adequate toe protection is required to prevent
undermining by waves reflected off the wall. An
aggregate backfill apd weepholes are required for
draining saturated soils. A splash apron behind
the wall's crest will prevent overtopping waves
from washing-out the backfill.

The masonry gravity wall is a proven,
moderately-priced, long-lasting, relatively main-
tenance free remedial measure. However, these
walls do require an experienced mason, and
structural failures are difficult to repair.

0N6FMTF_ OFZ
SFLA@sH APRON I PrIn-w 6-IoNa

lypi
_L OR 10 Tyr
WSSPRDL@E: 2

P*4414 TLISF

ANP CH34;< AC-,.4IIW Exj5T-
.5011- 0EA!Z-,'jIrj VAL-LUIEZ!@ 'At 144
6IF-OW14P
ANT16(pq1-:17 A,'e-OUR

TYPICAL CON61RETF- OR CaROUT-EV MA60NA@ZY
,61RAVITY WAU_

0) Bulkheads. A bulkhead is a vertical seawall, con-
structed of sheetpiles that are driven into the
ground or seabed, and stabilized by tie-backs.
Sheetpiles are normally constructed of either

steel, concrete or timber. The length of the
sheets are determined by a ratio of being embedded
to a depth of 1.5 to 2.0 times the height of the
wall above the scour depth. A tie-back is needed
to anchor the top of the bulkhead against soil
pressures tending to topple the wall seaward, al-
through free-standing alternatives, requiring sig-
nificantly deeper penetration of the piles, can be
designed. Bulkheads require substantial toe
protection, usually provided by graded quarried
stones. Bulkhead seawalls also require consider-
able soils analysis and engineering design work.

While they provide longterm, maintenance-free pro-
tection of uniform appearance, especially for
industrial and shoreline-dependent areas where
land base is scarce,, bulkheads do posses some
disadvantages. The long tie-back feature does not
adapt well where a building is situated close to
the shoreline. Steel sheetpiles have a limited
life because of salt water corrosion.

Timber piles are prone to biological decay. The
smooth vertical face does not absorb wave
energy; and reflected wave energy may result in
loss of sand that is seaward of the bulkhead.
Repairs can be expensive, and pile-driving is a
noisy, objectionable operation. See Figure VI-5.

6F.AN

_Cj
IAI

RO F_ M_ E

6ON5TIZU6TION

VI - 12

d) Sand Grabber. The Sand Grabber is a patented
device constructed of concrete building blocks
that are hooked together with steel rods. The
devices trap sand behind them as wave action
carries water over and through the structure. The
slower return-flow of the water that penetrates
through the blocks allows the sand to deposit
behind the structure. The blocks can also be
placed along the shore to form a revetment.

This structure is inexpensive and allows easy ac-
cess to the beach. However, the steel rods will
eventually rust away, thereby allowing the blocks
to disassemble. This remedial measure has not
been proven functionally effective or structurally
adequate over a period of time long enough to
judge its life expectancy and maintenance
requirements. Therefore, it should be considered
as appropriate for a short-term solution only.

Also, without adequate protection, the seaward row
of blocks may be undermined by toe scour. These
installations must also be protected to prevent
flanking failure.

Figure VI-6, below, depicts sectional views of
this measure.

7_3r_O@f -5Ei6UIZW WIT14
C-_F_OC*_

TY PI-CA-L: __5@!KNO:7-4 P@@P RE

VI 13

F. RECOMMENDED SHORELINE EROSION CONTROL STRUCTURES AND
ESTIMATED COST OF STRUCTURES AND PROMULGATI14G
REGULATIONS FOR COASTAL AREAS

Construction of erosion-control works can have both
favorable and unfavorable impacts on the Saipan Lagoo 'n
coastline: shoreline uses, adjacent properties, plants
and wildlife are all affected. Shoreline protection
control structures may hamper the natural littoral transport
regime by creating a beach on the updrift side while
inducing erosion on the downdrift side. A revetment may
protect an eroding shoreline, but the material that is
being protected no longer becomes available to supply the
erosion occurring at downdrift beaches. Construction
operations may create temporary turbidity and water quality
degradation.

The following erosion control structures (see Table VI-1)
are recommended for correcting the shoreline erosion which
now occurs at five locations along the Saipan Lagoon
shoreline (refer to Figure VI-1).

Additionally, a budget cost estimate is enclosed for the
engineering design, plans and construction specifications.

TABLE VI-1
RECOMMENDED SHORELINE EROSION CONTROL STRUCTURES
AND COST ESTIMATES

LOCATION LENGTH*OF RECOMMENDED ESTIMATED COST
EROSION (LF) STRUCTURES OF STRUCTURE

N.E. American + 300 Sand Grabber $ 196/L.F.
Memorial Park Beach Fill $ 25/Cu.Yd .

W. American + 300 Sand Grabber $ 196/L.F.
Memorial Park Beach Fill $ 25/Cu.Yd .

Micro Beach/ + 520 Sand Grabber $ 196/L.F.
Hafa Adai Hotel Beach fill $ 25/Cu.Yd .

North of Garapan + 800 Masonry Gravity Wall $ 330/L.F.
Whaflf Stone Revetment $ 40/Cu.Yd.

North of San + 2,190 Stone Revetment $ 360/L.F.
Jose Subtotal (approx.) $1,500,000

Plans and specifications for construction $ 100P000

TOTAL COST ESTIMATE $1,600,000

VI - 14

The cost of promulgating the three sets of proposed
regulations is similar to other regulation promulgation
activities recommended by this PLAN. The estimated cost by
CRMO staff is $1,000 for public hearings, promulgation and
printing of the three sets of regulations.

VI 15

CHAPTER VII - INFRASTRUCTURE PLAN

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT

This SAIPAN LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT PLAN establishes, among
other things, the preferable development pattern for the
Saipan Lagoon project area by virtue of the proposed zones
and land uses, regulations, and management policies. Second
only to this PLAN achieving those desired uses and growth
pattern is the importance of assuring sufficient, reliable
infrastructure throughout the project area; because
available capacity for water, wastewater and power are
determinant forces for managing any development plan.

Infrastructure planning for the Saipan Lagoon project area
can occur in either of two forms:

that of determination where development will (and
will not) take place by providing for excess
carrying capacity which can accommodate- new
growth, or, similarly, by extending utilities to
areas where new projects have already been
announced; or

a preferred development. pa'y-tern: that of
supporting preconceived reglonal development
plans by providing for excess capacity in
accordance with land use projections and,
conversely, by not upgrading capacity in those
areas where development has reached it determined
saturation point.

In the absence of an adopted, enforced land use plan for
Saipan and its western shoreline corridor, infrastructure
planning has basically taken the course of the first form.:-
excess capacity being provided in the absence of land use
planning or in reaction to proposed major projects which
require extending and enlarging of utilities in order to
service water, wastewater and power requirements. This
results in land use planning at its worst because the- publi-c-
facilities are reactionary to private development decisions.

The Government's existing water and wastewater facilities
plans are based on several sources of land use development
and population projections. They have relied on the best
(only) data available to date. With the adoption of this
SAIPAN LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT PLAN, however, a realistic land
use growth and development pattern will be established for
the Saipan Lagoon shoreline geographical area; and infra-
structure planning should be revised to account for this

VII - 1

information. Otherwise, the existing water*and wastewater
facilities plans will be fostering public investment in
infrastructure which is out-of-step, and in some cases
contradictory to, the land use development which is adopted
by this PLAN. I

Another aspect of infrastructure development, stormwater
drainage and disposal, also suffers from inadequate planning
and technical adaptation for Saipan. As with proper
planning for water and sewer utilities, stormwater drainage
facilities should be properly sized and designed to
efficiently handle 'the intensity, volume and quality of the
Island's stormwater runoff. Presently, however, the CNMI
government has not adopted design criteria and construction
standards to guide the placement of stormwater drainage and
disposal facilities. A design criteria manual is necessary
to standardize these facilities (which become the
responsibility of Public Works to maintain) and to assure
that the design parameters reflect Saipan's climatological
and hydrological characteristics.

The intent of this Infrastructure Plan, therefore, is to
recommend detailed scopes of work for updating the Saipan
water and wastewater facilities plans for the Saipan Lagoon
project area, to recommend a scope of work for developing a
storm drainage criteria manual for guiding the design of
Saipan drainage works in order to handle the runoff into
the Lagoon in an environmentally acceptable manner; and to
develop infrastructure planning criteria to assess the im-
pact of future development within the established land use
zones that are recommended for the PLAN's project area. In
addition to these new recommendations this Plan also
endorses many existing recommendations for on going programs
and for infrastructure improvements which are presented in
other reports.

B. WATER FACILITIES PLANNING FOR FUTURE SHORELINE USES

The primary purposes of this section are: 1) to update and
revise the existing water facilities planning to reflect the
newly established land use and development plans established
for the Saipan Lagoon project area as well as to correct'the
water consumption demands used as a basis for design in the
1982 Saipan Water System Study; and, 2) to endorse the
Government's existing plans for establishing a Groundwater
Management Plan Task Force. This water system planning
shall determine the necessary water production and transmis-
sion system to support the overall development objectives
and plan elements for the SAIPAN LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT PLAN.

VII - 2

1. Scope of Work

In the Volume I, Chapter VIII, Section B.1.a "Problems
ansoc4_ated w 4- t h. t h -_ TAT a t e'S y n 17az: c_4-1zc'osed
that the planned water system improvements are under-
designed by the year 1988. The following Scope of Work
is recommended to correct "that projection by upgrading
the systemwide plans to accommodate the future Lagoon
shoreline development based on current planning data.

This projection deficiency in the 1982 Saipan Water
System Study does not discount the many other recommen-
dations for both system upgrading and
operations/maintenance improvements, which are still
appropriate. It is unnecessary to repeat all of those
recommendations (many of which are now being imple-
mented by the Government) in this PLAN; however, their
overall importance to implementing this PLAN certainly
justifies inclusion by this reference.

The specific tasks embodied by the scope of work for
this Facilities Plan Amendment are listed below.

a) Description and characteristics of the project
area

Topography
Geology
Land use development pattern
Population projections
Economic projections

b) Existing water facilities

Water production facilities
Water distribution facilities
Water system evaluation
Management
Operations
Maintenance
Sanitary survey requirements

c) Water consumption requirements

Historical production and demands
Unaccounted-for water
Per capita use
Future public requirements
Future commercial requirements
Islandwide future water requi rements

VII - 3

d Design criteria

Design period
System pressures
System demands
Pipelines
Storages
Supply
Treatment

e) Water Quality

Water quality criteria for domestic uses
Water quality criteria for industry uses
Water quality monitoring program

f) Water supply and treatment alternatives

Groundwater quality management
Water reclamation
Desalination
Saltwater plumbing systems
Recommendations

g) Proposed water distribution and system
improvements

General
Storage
Distribution
Hydraulic analysis
Proposed improvements
Cost estimates

2. Groundwater Management Task Force

Inherent to this PLAN's focus on water facilities
planning is the assumption that an adequate quality and
acceptable supply of potable water is available to the
project area. The CNMI Government has embarked on a
program to protect its groundwater resources and to
plan for their future use on a sustainable yield basis.
This PLAN endorses those efforts and specifically
proposes that a Groundwater Resources Manager position
be established to implement objectives of the Task
Force.

VII - 4

3. Estimated Cost and Project Schedule

The estimated cost of the Water Facilities Planning is
$85,000 and is not eligible for US EPA funding. This
project will take approximately six months to
complete.

The annual salary of a Groundwater Resources Manager is
$30,000, plus an additional $10,000 for office
administrative support, not including office space
itself.

C. WASTEWATER FACILITIES PLANNING FOR FUTURE SHORELINE
USES

The primary purpose of this section is to update and revise
the existing wastewater facilities planning to reflect the
newly established land use and development plans established
for the Saipan Lagoon project area as well as to correct the
wasteload projections used as a basis for design in the 1977
Wastewater Facilities Plan. This wastewater facilities
planning shall determine the necessary wastewater collec-
tion, transmission, treatment and disposal system to support
the overall objectives and plan elements of the SAIPAN
LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT PLAN for the island's southern waste-
water system, which data analysis from Volume I showed to be
under-designed by the year 1988. There is no intent to
amend Saipan's Wastewater Facilities Plan but, rather, to
address the southern system's service area, which does not
provide for the capacity that must be accommodated for addi-
tional tourist facilities now under construction and
proposed.

Aside from the necessity to adjust future wastewater plan-
ning projections so as to reflect the land use development
pattern and development proposals presented in Volumes I and
II of the PLAN, the most pressing need for this utility is
its general upgrading, in consonance with other existing
plans and recommendations. Improvements to the physical
system, as presented by the 1977 Wastewater Facilities Plan,
and, particularly, improvements to operations and main-
tenance of the system as presented by both that Facilities
Plan as well as by supplementary studies, rank as two of the
Commonwealth's most urgent problems. It would be redundant
for this PLAN to repeat those Wastewater Facility Plan
recommendations; however, they are incorporated by reference
as prerequisites to the full implementation of this lagoon
use management PLAN.

The need for these operators and maintenance improvements
are well understood by the G'overnment, of course; and much

VII - 5

effort, but not enough funds, are already invested towards
remedial action.. The Saipan Lagoon and its planned shore-
line uses cannot develop to their economic potential without
the basic infrastructure improvements that is now budgeted
in,the Commonwealth's CIP and O&M requests.

1. Scope of Work

The specific tasks embodied by the scope of work for
this Facilities Plan Amendment are listed below.

a) Description of the project area and wastewater
system service areas

b) Environmental inventory of the project area

Natural environment
Land and lagoon
Plants and animals
Areas of particular concern and critical
habitats
Manmade environment
Demographic projections
Land use development patterns
Economic development

c) Water quality criteria

Water quality objectives
Water quality standards for lagoon and
reef margin
Wastewater system parameters
Wastewater treatment requirements
Sources of pollution

d) Existing wastewater loadings and facilities

Identification and characterization of
wastewater loadings
Flows
Loadings
Characteristics
Existing wastewater facilities
Collection systems
Transmission systems
Treatment and disposal systems
Maintenance and operations

e) Planning factors and wastewater design criteria

Demography, land use and zoning
Environmental and water quality
considerations

VII - 6

Historical and archaeological considerations
Identification and characterization of future
wastewater loadings
Identification of potential wastewater
,treatment and disposal sites

f) Wastewater system alternatives

Collection system alternatives
Transmission system alternatives
Treatment and disposal system alternatives
Efficient disposal alternatives
Innovative/alternative system approaches
Sewage sludge disposal

g) Evaluation of alternatives

Preliminary screening for methodology,
technical application and selection of
alternatives
Construction impacts
Natural environment
Manmade environment
Operational impacts
Natural environment
Manmade environment
Operational and maintenance manpower, skills
and availability of supplies
Cost for capital replacement, 0 & M and life
cycle costing
Final Evaluation
Environment impacts
Social impacts
Present-worth costs
Cost effectiveness
Prioritized ranking of alternatives

h) Review by CNMI Government and incorporation of
appropriate comments

i) Final evaluation and recommendation of selected
wastewater systems plan

j) Implementation plan and schedule

Sub-projects schedule
Capital improvements schedule
Phased development for systemwide operations

VII - 7

k) User charge rates

Operational costs
Capital costs
User statistics
Cost per user

2. Estimated Cost and Project Schedule

This wastewater facilities plan for the shoreline area
of the southern wastewater system will cost approxi-
mately $40,000 and take about four months to complete
by a professional engineering firm that is familiar
with Saipan. This work is not eligible for US. EPA
funding.

D. STORM DRAINAGE DESIGN CRITERIA MANUAL

The purpose of such a Storm Drainage Design Criteria Manual
is to technically guide storm drainage planning and design
Itthroughout Saipan. General hydrologic and hydraulic prac-
tices as well as drainage design problems in Saipan must
be addressed in detail. The primary thrust of the Manual is
be to treat storm drainage as an infrastructure subsystem of
the total urban infrastructure system. Likewise, drainage
management should be considered as an integral part : of
Saipan's entire.waterresources management effort. Planning
for interdiscipl.inary resources and other community infra-
structure must be related to drainage policies wherever
possible in order to achieve an overall, better
environment.

The contemplated use of this Manual will be for Commonwealth
of the Northern Mariana Islands designers, engineers ' and
planners, consulting engineering firms, and other agencies
or organizations having development responsibilities in
the Commonwealth. The Department of Public Works shall have
the design criteria adopted by Legislative resolution as
CNMI policy.

1. Scope of Work

The Scope of Work to prepare this Manual must
stress three primary purposes.

Give direction to the Commonwealth Government
agencies in order to support and assist private
decisions about drainage, plans and improvements.

Give direction to the Commonwealth Government
agencies for guiding and regulating private
developers in regards to drainage matters.

VII - 8

Provide a framework for all public agencies in the
Commonwealth to manage flooding and drainage
problems.

The specific tasks embodied by the Scope of Work for
this Manual are listed below.

a) Establish storm drainage policies and planning
principles adopted by the Commonwealth and
recommend amendments or additions as necessary.

b) Compile all applicable Commonwealth and Saipan
laws, ordinances and regulations which relate to
storm drainage.

c) Conduct a rainfall data analysis to determine:
general characteristics of frequency;
basic precipitation data; and frequency-intensity-
duration analyses.

d) Recommend methods to improve the availability and
reliability of precipitation data.

e) Describe the use of the Rational Method of
statistical analysis for determining runoff and
its application to Saipan-specific precipitation.

f) Recommend appropriate design procedures for storm
drains on Saipan, including:

sizing of storm drain systems;
hydraulic design of storm drains;
design standards and criteria; and
sample problems for storm drain design
calculations.

g) Recommend appropriate design procedures for storm
water drainage from streets, including:

design criteria for urban streets;
design criteria for rural streets; and
design criteria for intersections.

h) Establish policies for street drainage and
facilities maintenance.

i) Determine types and sizes of appropriate storm
drainage inlets, including:

procedures for selection and use of various
types of inlets;
design of curb opening inlets; and
design of grated and combination inlets.

VII - 9

j) Determine appropriate design procedures for major
drainage works including:

open channels;
box culverts;
large pipe culverts;
riprap; and
sediment control.

k) Determine appropriate desian criteria for
0
hydraulic structures, including:

energy dissipaters;
channel drops;
bridges;
acceleration chutes;
bends; and
baffle chutes.

1) Determine appropriate design criteria, capacity
charts and nomographs for inlets and culverts,
including:

concrete box culvert inlets;
long condutt inlets; and
trash racks.

M) Determine appropriate design criteria for upstream
and downstream storage facilities, including
maintenance procedures.

n) Determine appropriate design criteria for storm
water disposal alternatives including:

discharge to streams;
discharge to lagoons;
discharge to the ocean; and
discharge by means of infiltration.

0) Recommend appropriate means of floodproofing
against storm water drainage, including:

non-structural alternatives;
structural alternatives; and
construction procedures.

2. Estimated Cost and Project Schedule

A project of this scope will require up to twelve
months to complete complete and cost between
$45,000 to $60,000 (depending on the amount of
data available or furnished by the Government') by
a professional engineering consultant.

VII - 10

E. PLANNING CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING DEVELOPMENT IMPACTS ON
INFRASTRUCTURE

New development and changing uses along the Lagoon's shore-
, _-- L _L L, -hese
@.@ne w-71@ exact J*Laipacts on 'he project area. J.
impacts vary in nature and degree with the types of new
development and uses that are introduced. Hotels, multi-
unit residential complexes, industrial facilities and
energy-related facilities can be expected to create the
most significant shoreline and lagoon impacts. Park and
recreation areas, conservation areas, commercial sales and
services, and single-family residences generally create less
severe and more easily manageable impacts.

The targets of such impacts also vary with respect to the
types of new development and uses that are introduced.
Impacts from people-intensive activities, such as hotels
and apartments or condominiums, will strain the
Commonwealth's water, sewer, power and telecommunications
systems. Commercial establishments of the types most
typically found in the PLAN's project area, on the other
hand, contribute more heavily to the congestion of Saipan's
transportation facilities than to community utilities.
Industrial and energy-related facilities are most likely to
impact on air quality and on the Lagoon's water quality.

It is important to understand the impacts that can be
reasonably anticipated by new development and uses within
the Saipan Lagoon project area. By intelligently antici-
pating the cumulative effects of these impa-cts it is
possible to invoke mitigating measures where appropriate
and/or plan for additional community infrastructure to
accommodate the eventual need for increased demands. The
purpose of this Section is to develop criteria and an im-
pact rating system to evaluate the impact of large-scale
proposed development within the project area.

The most likely type of new, large-scale coastline
developments are hotels and multi-unit residential
complexes. The most significant impacts of such projects
affect the following infrastructure.

Water service
Sewer service
Electrical power
Storm drainage system
Telecommunications
Roads and parking

VII - 11

1. Water Service

The Saipan Water System Study calculated average
residential water consumption at 130 gallons per capita
per day (gcd). This is a projected rate, based on 24-
hour water service. While apartment houses and
condominiums are not particularly profilic on Saipan,
the typical multi-family unit has two bedrooms and is
occupied by 4 people (2 adults and 2 children). The
L-1 is, therefore,
water demand for each such typical uni'
520 gallons per day.

The demand for water by hotels must be calculated
somewhat differently, however. On the whole tourists
are more mobile than residents; and their demand for
water is more distributed throughout the island such as
at parks, shopping areas and other tourist attractions.

Additionally, tourists do not generate all of the
typical water uses of residents such as for laundry,
car washing, irrigation, etc. For purposes of this
analysis, therefore, a tourist is assigned a water use
factor of 80% that of a resident, or 104 ged. Since the
average occupancy of a hotel room is 2 guests, the
average water demand, per guest room, is calculated as
208 gallons per day. It must be remembered that these
.calculations for water demand are based on consumption
and, therefore cannot be translated into water produ.c-
tion requirements without accounting for water loss in
the system due to leakage. Consumption plus leakage
equals water production that is necessary.

An ancillary water demand by hotels and multi-unit
residences is required for fire fighting capacity (fire
flow). According to the Saipan Water System Study,
the fire flow capacities are calculated by population.
For communities the size of Chalan Kanoa and Garapan,
for example, the flow in gpm is 1750 for a duration of
seven hours. For the smaller villages such as San
Roque, Tanapag and Susupe the fire flow is 100 gpm
for a duration of four hours.

2. Sewer Service

Assuming mandatory connection to a public sewer system
(a reasonable assumption for large scale developments)
the demand generated for sewer service is computed as a
factor of water usage. It can be reasonably assumed
that water consumption and sewage flow are equal since
non-sewered water such as for landscaping, irrigation,
car washing, exterior maintenance of building and walk-
ways are negligible. In short, then, average daily

VII - 12

generated sewage flows are 216 gallons per hotel guest
room and 520 gallons per apartment/condominium unit.
Pcwav@@r, @ernand _=nalyziz 0- a [email protected] Lawer systam
must take in account the peak flows which are likely to
occur. Peak flows reflect the day-to-day living
patterns of residents and tourist and result in a
multiplier effect of 3.5 over the average flow
quantities.

3. Electrical Power Service

A standard basis for design to provide electrical power
for hotels and multi-unit residential complexes is
13.8 KV distribution and

30 amps for a 200 room hotel
10 amps for a 50 unit residential building

4. Telecommunications

A standard basis for design to provide telephone
service for hotels and multi-unit residential complexes
is:

one private line per 10 hotel guest'. rooms,
plus 10 additional lines
one private line per residential unit.

5. Roads*and Parking

Only a small percentage of Saipan tourists rent
vehicles or mopeds. Consequently, the major traffic
generators by hotels are buses, delivery vehicles,
employee vehicles, and local guests.

Because few activities are available to Saipan tourists
by walking, tour buses are used for sightseeing tours,
shopping, airport transportation, entertainment and
eating. It is likely that, on the average, each
tourist uses a bus once a day. Of course, not every 40-
passenger bus is fully occupied, because the trips are
pre-arranged as optional transportation services.
Based on 50% ridership on each bus, each 200 room hotel
would generate 10 primary round trips (once leaving the
hotel and once returning); but that trip generation can
be doubled to account for shuttling the empty buses to
and from the hotels. For planning purposes, therefore,
each 200-room hotel can be expected to generate approx-
imately 40 vehicle traffic counts at a hotel each day.

Delivery vehicular traffic is a function of goods and
services purchased by the hotel.

VII - 13

Employee traffic can be calculated at two vehicle trips
per employee per day, based on the average hotel
employment ratio oil one employee per room.

Minimum parking requirements for commercial and resort
developments have been established in the "Zones and
Land Use Districts Act" within Section 9, subsection
c(5) and subsection d(5), respectively. For commercial
developments, minimum parking space requirements are
one space for every 200 square feet of commercial floor
area and for restaurants and bars the requirement is
one parking space for every four customer seats. For
resort developments the minimum parking requirements
are one space for every five guest rooms, plus one
parking space for every four customers seats in a
hotel's restaurant and bar.

F. IMPACT EVALUATION BY MATRIX

While it is important to accurately judge the anticipated
impact to infrastructure from hotels and multi-unit resi-
dential complexes, other types of impacts (and other types
of..projects) must allo be included when evaluating any
proposed project's overall impact.

Many types of methods are available for evaluating impacts.
Because the environmental assessment process often produces
a large volume of unorganized new, data, impact evaluation
methodologies should'achieve the following results.

organize a heterogeneous mass of data
summarize the data
aggregate the data into smaller sets (with
minimum loss of data)
extract salient features
display both the new data and the derived in-
formation in a meaningful way.

Of the 70 or so data evaluation techniques in use today,
some of the most popular ones include averaging, correla-
tion, cost/benefit analysis, curve-fitting from benchmarks,
Delphi technique, factors analyses, flow charting, indices
and indicators, mapping, matrices, networks, overlay
techniques, preferential ordering, public meetings
regression-techniquies, trend extrapolation/projection, and'
utility assessment.

Because of inherent limitations in manpower and data
collection techniques within the Coastal Resources
Management Office, the most appropriate assessment
methodology at this time appears to be the matrix. Matrices
can be structured to build on data which are generally
obtainable by CRMO from sources such as:
VII - 14

a project report describing the proposed devel-
opment;
a visit by the site investigator: and
a review of existing plans and studies deal'ing
with the site in question.

The more sensitive type of matrix will record not only the
types of impacts that can be anticipated but also the inten-
sity of those impacts. Most matrices, however, emphasize
the inescapability of the need for impressionistic ratings
because:

many criteria do not lend themselves to numeri-
cal or other forms of objective analysis;
even where numerical data or indices are
readily available, they are often relevant to
only a part of the particular rating; and
the very large number of matrix cells usually
required will preclude extensive data acquisi-
tion and analysis for each cell, any one of
which might be expandable into a complex study
of its own.

Such weigh ting schemes must be recognized as solely
judgmental, because it is impossible to assess any multi-
criteria issue without such subjective analysis. Initial
judgments can generally be made about a proposed project,
and then the final conclusion can be tested for sensitivity
over the full range of value weights. Obviously, this method
encourages (and relies on) the use of expert judgment.

Table VII-1 depicts the matrix recommended for use by the
Coastal Resources Management Office. This cause-effect
matrix is adapted from the U.S. Geological Survey's Circular
645.

This matrix method includes an "importance value" for
each impact in addition to the "magnitude value"'. The
importance value is intended to encompass the subjective
evaluation assigned to each criterion by CRMO. For example,
in evaluating a proposed beachfront project on Saipan, CRMO
would . probably consider the Lagoon's quality (impact
"Lagoon, d11) to be more important, relatively, than the
value of beach sand at 'the project site (impact "On-shore,
all). Thus, CRMO can determine a numerical weighting to
establish the relative difference in *importance between
these two (and the other) particular impacts. The magnitude
value, of course, represents the severity of the impact as a
result of a specific proposed development and alteration to
the existing environment.

VII - 15

The list of actions can, of course, be expanded as
experience and circumstances dictate; although it is now
comprehensive enough to indicate the general type of actions
L.o consider and to stimulate further discussion. The first'.
step in this procedure is to check each column corresponding
to an action that is associated with a particular project.
For each column that is marked, the boxes corresponding to
the impacts are examined. For each box, 'a magnitude and
importance are specified on a scale of 1 to 10. These two
numbers are placed in the box and separated by a slash.
Each project would have a separate matrix, and.the basis for
assessing the activities and the values associated with the
project are based on the professional judgment of the
Coastal Resource Management Office planners and/or of other
designated staff.

VII 16

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PART THREE
LAGOON WATERS USE PLAN ELEMENT

CHAPTER VIII - LAGOON WATERS USE PLAN

A. SYNOPSIS OF DATA P.NALYSES FROM VOLUME I AND
IDENTIFICATION OF PROBLEMS

Visual observations and analysis of data gathered through
questionnaire interviews indicated that existing. recrea-
tional uses within the lagoon are numerous, particularly in
view of the growing tourist industry on Saipan. The Saipan
Lagoon represents a substantial recreation arena and major
recreational uses within it include the following:

Swimming
Snorkeling
Scuba Diving
Boating (power and sail)
Water Skiing
Surfing
Spear Fishing
Gathering

The Lagoon's massive expanse-of water spans the entire 'west
coast of Saipan and represents a vast open space. Its
constant change of color and texture creates unlimited
visual attractions and sets the stage for one of Saipan's
more exciting recreational activities: to face the challenge
of wind and waves or to submerge into an underwater world of
tranquillity and mystery. It is the promise of the unspoiled
experience of these qualities which attracts visitors to the
Saipan Lagoon.

These waters also contain great economic resources: fish,
shell-fish, crustaceans, algae and seagrass and other valu-
able marine organisms which are collected for daily
subsistence and retail sale.

The, survival of these activities and resources is in jeopar-
dy. Lagoon resources adjacent to population centers are
being endangered or destroyed because of insufficient envi-
ronmental planning and forethought. Sedimentation in
estuaries, bays and lagoons from accelerated man-induced
erosion and surface runoff related to construction, land
clearing and landfilling have always been a problem, in
dev-eloping areas. It is probably the greatest environmental
threat to all emerging Pacific nations today. The impact of

VIII - 1

suspended silt and deposited sediments.on the reef flat and
near-shore coral reef communities are potentially devas-
tating and can be irreversible.

Ocean and lagoon conservation measures cannot focus solely
on the marine environment to the exclusion of the terres-
trial or coastal environment. Since the ratio of coastline
to land is high on a small island, uncontrolled land use or
poor land management practices can directly impact nearshore
and lagoon marine resources. Thus, conservation measures
directed at the marine environment must necessarily address
potential developmental problems associated with adjacent
shoreline areas.

The physiographic transition from terrestrial to coastal to
the marine environment must not be viewed as separate zones
but rather as a continuum, with an interchange of physical
and biological attributes occurring between the various
habitat areas. The assault against any one of these three
physiographic environments may be expected to produce accom-
panying changes in the remaining two and, ultimately, on the
entire marine environment.

@The Saipan lagoon and, in particular, the Tanapag Harbor
area have been extensively modified by dredging and shore-
line construction activities. All this has, no doubt,
produced.impacts to benthic flora and fauna. Fish dynami-
ting and cloroxing have also damaged extensive areas of
patch reefs.

Saipan has the largest lagoon of the entire Northern
Marianas Archipelago. Seaward from the long west-coast beach
is a shallow lagoon of approximately 20 square miles which
is walled-off from the Philippine Sea by a barrier reef that
lies approximately two miles offshore at the `harbor en-
trance but approaches the shore with a fringing reef at its
northern and southern ends. Just north of 'the harbor
entrance is the small islet of Managaha, consisting of loose
limestone that extends to only eight or ten feet above mean
tide level. Excellent reefs are found along the south and
west sides.

Some of Saipan's "fringing reefs are actually sealevel
benches composed of volcanic material with an appreciable
organic component at the submerged face. At the south end
of Saipan, however, are 11 true" fringing reefs with de-
pressed reef flats that support extensive growth in a
typical lagoon environment.

Access between the lagoon and deep oceanic water is by
several natural and a few manmade channels. The main
channel is the Tanapag Harbor entrance at mid-island. Two

VIII - 2

small boat channels have been built into the boat docks at
Garapan and Chalan Kanoa. There are also two natural surge
channels located at the scuth and of the reef and near San
Jose 'Village. These latter channels are used by boats in
emergencies only and are generally navigated only
during daylight and under very calm conditions.

With such diverse natural and man-made resources, excellent
accessibility and scenic beauty, the Saipan Lagoon becomes a
focal point for recreation within the CNMI and particularly
to Saipan. It is a valuable resource in itself as noted in
Volume I and apart from daily use by local residents,tourism
accounts for the largest single use of the beaches and
lagoon recreational resources. All tourists spend time on
the beaches and swim in the near-shore lagoon waters of both
Saipan and Managaha. Tourist related boating activity ac-
counts for a larger part of daily water borne traffic flow
in the Saipan lagoon. The majority of this activity occurs
near-shore between the Hafa Adai and Hyatt Hotels, on the
west coast of Managaha and on a rather direct line between
these points. Larger boats dock in Smiling Cove and operate
in the channel to Managaha. Water-borne traffic on these
routes is composed of five types of crafts.

Small to large ships
Glass Bottom Boats (25-40 ft)
Motorboats (16-25 ft)
Sailboats (14-80 ft)
Wind Surfers

Adequate facilities do not exist for the safe operation of
boats in proximity to swimmers or other lagoon users .For
example, of the six docking/loading facilities on Saipan
four do nothing to discourage swimming in the same general
area and two of these ( Hafa Adai Hotel, Hyatt Regency
Hotel) are in direct conflict with tourist swimming beaches.
The prime concern here is boating traffic patterns around
waters where swimmers congregate. Such conflicts exists in
three separate areas: Managaha Island, Micro Beach and
in the vicinity of Puntan Susupe. Recent deaths of tourists
due to motorboating accidents indicate a serious problem.

Boating traffic patterns in the Saipan Lagoon reflect
general congestion in the central Tanapag Harbor area.
Glass bottom boats take passengers to and from Managaha
Island on a regular schedule and usually stop to view under-
water wrecks on their morning runs. These boats position
themselves over the submerged wreck and sit idle for a few
minutes before moving on. Small sailboats, Hobie Cats and
other, small catamarans sail between Saipan and Managaha
Island regularly. An 80 ft catamaran sails regularly

VIII - 3

between Saipan and Tinian. Wind surfers use the shallow
lagoon just off Micro Beach and Managaha Island. Motorboats
oDerate between a few docks on Saipan and Managaha island
carrying passengers. Other small motor boats pull water
skiers in the lagoon near Micro Beach and in shallow
water of Managaha Island. Jet skiers and other small
motorized, single-person speed boats operate in an oval
area just off the main hotel beaches. Large ships (cargo
and passenger) operate in the main Tanapag Channel between
the harbor entrance and Charlie Dock. Small to medium
sized fishing and pleasure boats operate in the vicinity of
Charlie Dock and Smiling Cove, moving across to the harbor
and harbor entrance.

Numerous areas within the lagoon are considered excellent
diving spots either for fishing, gathering or just
exploring. These include shallow patch reefs near the
lighthouse, Paupau Beach and near Managaha Island. Under-
water wrecks are dived regularly in the outer lagoon,
particularly near Managaha Island.

B. OBJECTIVES FOR LAGOON USE PLAN ELEMENT

The objectives for this PLAN element follow those objectives
identified in the SALAPAT planning sessions. They are
summarized as follows:

Water Recreation Zone Plan
a. Recreational use zones for Saipan Lagoo'n
b. Water safety information program
c. Water Recreation Advisory Board

Water Hazards and Marine Nuisance Abatement Plan
a. Removal of lagoon hazards
b. Abatement of marine nuisances

VIII 4

CHAPTER IX - WATER RECREATION ZONES PLAN

A STATEMENT OF INTENT

The various recreational uses and port traffic patterns in
the Saipan Lagoon (Figure IX-1) suggest a complex use pat-
tern that requires serious evaluation in order to protect
individual users from accidents. This is obvious from
recent accidents where tourists were seriously injured or
killed by boats. The intent of this water recreational zone
plan is to design a water recreation zoning scheme that will
allow all acceptable water uses in specific areas where they
are compatible.

B. RECREATION USE ZONES FOR SAIPAN LAGOON

Recreational zones are established to eliminate the conges-
tion of multi-uses in specific areas of 'the Saipan Lagoon.
These areas,, noted in Figure IX-2 involve shallow lagoon
water in front of Micro Beach, Puntan Susupe and Managaha
Island. It is not possible to zone all lagoon uses such as
diving, sailing or surfing. However, it is possible to zone
swimming areas and the various motorboating activities like
parasail operation, general motorboat travel,'jet skies and
waterskiing. The following section identifies the various
Lagoon recreational uses and establishes standards to insure
the concurrent safety of all uses.

1. Swimming Zones

Swimming zones should be established by hotel policy
and roped-off from other uses in the following areas,
as depicted in Figure IX-3.

Royal Taga/Grand Hotel
Hafa Adai Hotel
Intercontinental Hotel
Hyatt Hotel
Paupau Beach
Managaha Island

These areas do not have to be large: they can be
100x100 feet. However, they must be roped-off with
buoys,in order to keep all other uses out of the area.
Swimmers who venture outside of this area swim at their
own risk. Boaters who operate boats in the vicinity of
these swimming areas must do so cautiously,- move not
greater than 5 mph and keep a watchful eye for
swimmers. Swimming zones should be marked as such and,
if possible, patrolled by a qualified lifeguard.

Ix - 1

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2. Diving Zones

S>kin anu* scuba diving usualiy occurs on off shore reefs
or reefs and wrecks within the lagoon, (Figure IX-3).
It is not practical to establish diving zones except
where marine parks exist such as the proposed under-
water trail at the Managaha Island Marine Park.
However, for the sake of safety, divers should comply
with established safe diving techniques.

The major safety technique for divers involves the
use of a "Diver Down" flag, either towed behind the
diver on a tube or displayed on the dive boat.

3. Boating Zones

Boating involves numerous kinds of watercraft. This
plan does not in*clude a boating zone for the movement
of large ships in and out of the main Tanapag channel
to the commercial pier at Charlie Dock. Commercial
craft including foreign vessels (particularly large
ships) are presently controlled by the Coast Guard
through the International Shipping Rules and Regula-
tions. Local protection would be redundant and
unnecessary. Therefore, this plan deals with smaller
boats which utilize the lagoon waters.

ae Jet Skiis. Although jet skiis do not have
propellers, they move sufficiently fast to cause
serious damage upon collision, and there are some
small (single engine) power boats which operates
like jet skiis that do have propellers. These
craft should be operated only in specific areas.
Each hotel or beach concession should define the
boundary for their use sufficiently far enough
off-shore so as to not pose a threat to swimmers.
There is intense competitiveness among the hotels
for beach and lagoon recreational uses. As
successful ideas are generated by one hotel other
hotels usually follow suit. In the same light, if
successful safety practices are initiated by one
hotel, others will follow. It is best to leave
the initiation of such safety precautions to hotel
owners, unless a specific problem can be
identified and solved by the government in harmony
with the hotel owners or hotel association.

An access channel from the beach to the operating
area should be defined. The access channel should
be roped- off and marked accordingly on the beach.

IX - 5

An offshore jet ski-operational area should be
buoyed-off at either end and near the middle to
adequately define the area. Swimmers should be
aware of these operation areas through warning
signs placed at convenient locations on the beach.

b. Water Skiing. Water skiing can be a dangerous
sport to both the skier and others in the water if
precautions are not taken.

Like jet skiis, water skiing should occur far
enough from shore to be completely away from swim-
ming areas. Skiing should take place away from
coral or rocks and in deep enough water to prevent
injury to the skiers, should they fall. Skiing
areas should be designated on beach maps and
posted so that all swimmers and other lagoon users
know their location. Water skiers should not
start their runs from the beach. Ski boats should
move safely away from the beach area and begin
their run in the designated skiing areas offshore.
The Boating Safety Act states that "boats should
be 200 yards' from shore for more than 5 mph
speed." Ski areas are noted on Figure IX-3 for
hotels and tourist oriented operations. The
CRMO, ..through the seminar suggestion below, can
work with the hotel association to designate these
areas and operate within them.

C. Sailing. Sailing encompasses two distinct
categories of vessels. The greatest number of
sailing vessels involve wind surfers, while the
other category involve true sailboats, like small
monohulls, Hobie Cats or similar craft.

Sailing is considered an area-wide Lagoon water
sport and there is no particular zone for sailing
in the Lagoon (Figure !X-3). It is important for
the sailor to stay out of and away from swimming
zones and away from zones used for other craft
like jet skiis or water skiboats. Although this is
not possible at all times, it should be stressed
that being in the wrong zones will create a risk
to the operator of both vessels. Operators of all
vessels must understand that sailing craft, under
sail power alone, have the right-of-way under
International Rules of the Road, except in a
confined channel.

The responsibility for boating safety must start
somewhere. The Coast Guard already has
responsibility. However, with their limited

IX - 6

budget they, like the CNMI government, can
only do so much. In this case it is suggested that
a sem-inar he set up between the CNMi
government, Coast Guard and Hotels in order to
establish safe water craft operational areas.

4. Surfing

There are six surfing sites along the west coast of
Saipan. All but one of these are located on the reef.
Only one area within the Lagoon offers quality waves
for surfing. This is on patgh reefs off Micro Beach.
Surf does not occur frequently on the fringing and
barrier reef but depends on swell patterns usually
associated with tropical depressions, storms or
typhoons. Given these conditions, however, both
locations have excellent surf conditions. Surf zones
are not commonly established anywhere, although in
heavily populated areas, like California, surfers do
have particular spots that swimmers must avoid. Most
often, however, surfers must avoid established
swimming areas. It is not, realistic to establish
surfing zones within the Saipan Lagoon. However, it is
important for all lagoon users to know where popular
surfing areas are located (Figure IX-3) in order-Lo use
or avoid them.

5. Water Recreation Advisory Board

There are a number of concerned organization on Saipan
that can help to improve the safety of lagoon users.
These include: Department of Public Safety through the
Boating Law, Marianas Visitors Bureau, Coastal
Resources Management Office through their permitting
authority, Port Authority and the Hotel Association
through their concern for hotel guests. Each element
shares a common element, safety of those who use the
Saipan Lagoon.

Because of the number of concerned organizations an
organized Advisory Board could do much to promote
safety of all lagoon users. The board should be com-
prised of one representative from each of the five
aforementioned organizations. Meetings can be held
monthly or at a convenient schedule based on necessity.
A lead agency can be decided by active members. Tasks
can be assigned based on a real r- -
and costs can be shared based --on levve-1- -of
responsibility.

6. Cost Estimates for Establishing Recreation Use
Zones through an Advisory Board.

IX.- 7

These costs amount to the following.
Administrative
Rules and Rec@ulations
000

Zoning Maps 250
Public Education 5,000

Materials
Beach Signs (Public Works) 1,500
Handouts 500
Maps 500

TOTAL $8,750

Proposed here is a set of signs designating swimming
zones, ski zones, parasail zones and other uses in the
water. These could be placed at the appropriate beach
sites. In addition, public information handouts
designating the areas (zone) on a map with brief
explanations should be proposed.
C. WATER SAFETY INFORMATION PRO@RAM

A comprehensive Water Safety Information Program is an
essential element for water orientied developments along the
Saipan Lagoon coastline. Saipanese and Carolinians use the
marine environment for subsistence purposes and for recrea-
tion. Boating plays an important role with in island
environments. The.number and type of boats operating in the
Saipan Lagoon are quite varied and increasing annually. The
number of passengers carried by the larger vessels are also
increasing annually, especially those carrying passengers to
and from Managaha Island and on sunset/dinner cruises.

Boating safety is not the only important element in a Water
Safety Information Program. Residents and visitors alike
use the lagoon for a number of other purposes, including
swimming, diving and beach combing. Each of these uses
carries certain risks that pose hazards to the users.
Specific water recreation use zones do much to protect
lagoon users from inherent dangers. This section of the
Plan deals with some basic water safety information concepts
designed to improve user awareness and safety.

The CRMO, as a permitting agency of the CNMI government, has
the responsibility to protect coastal resources.
Recreational uses are essential resources within the coastal
zone. However, this does not necessarily mean that the CRMO
should get involved in regulating recreational uses. It is

Ix - 8

more important that they help other regulatory agencies like
the Department of Parks and Recreation or the Department of
Public a f -_ t yria-ZI @,r;-_t'a t'-.eze P-.cb1_=-.1s mmOre affect ively
In addition, specific issues like swimming areas and other'
hotel related recreational areas should be regulated by the
hotels. It is the hotel's responsibility to provide safe
recreational areas for their visitors.

1. Boating

The U.S.. Coast Guard is the basic element of a boating
safety information and education program in all U.S.
waters. The Coast Guard does have legal jurisdiction
within Saipan waters and throughout the CNMI. However,
because of a lack of personnel only infrequent visits
to Saipan are made by Guam-based Coast Guard personnel.
Duties additional to regular station activities include
safety inspections and documentation of vessels. These
personnel have all jurisdiction to cite vessels for
infractions of U.S. Coast Guard Rules and Regulations,
inspect boats, license skippers, observe -for
infractions and monitor for-,oil spills.

The lack of adequate personne-1 to patrol these waters
poses serious problems. in -light of the increased
boating activity in the area and in regards to the
groups of Japanese tourists that utilize water-borne
vessels for sight-seeing and transportation to and from
Managaha Island and throughout the Saipan Lagoon. A
boating safety program is essential, particularly on
Saipan where various forms of waterborne activities
prevail. The Coast Guard is no longer meeting this
responsibility regularly. It is now being provided by
the local CNMI government through the Department of
Public Safety which has a..limited budget and cannot
meet the demands of the program. However, this does
not relieve them of their responsibility, and an
emphasis should be set on essential elements of a
boating safety program for the Department of Public
Safety.

In this light the primdry thrust of a boating safety
program should be aimed at vessels carrying passengers-
for-hire, especially those which move between Saipan
Island and other islands like Managaha and Tinian. The
essential elements of such a boating safety program are
as follows.

Licensing

Rules of the Road
Seamanship
First Aid

Ix - 91

Navigation
CD
Mechanical Knowledge
Life Savi.na
Fueling
Knowledge of Local Waters

Inspections

Equipment
Certificate of Numbers

Sign Posting

5 mph speed limit in selected channels
and recreation areas

By. making a 5 mph speedlimit in selected channels and
recreation areas a requirement for vessels carrying
passengers-for-hire to be licensed, private sector
support businesses may emerge. These might include
services such as teaching courses on basic boat
handling;, navigation, first aid and other aspects of
of boating safety.

2. Swimming

This Plan calls for specific swimming areas to be
.roped-off, particularly in the vicinity of hotels.
This precaution will be a major step toward the preven-
tion of those accidents caused to swimmers by boats.
Such swimming zones will not necessarily prevent swim-
ming accidents caused by dangerous marine life such as
stone fish, jellyfish or sea urchins or related to
hazardous conditions, such as strong currents or rip-
tides. -Whatever the hazard, users of the Lagoon need
to be 'Informed as to where they occur, how to avoid
them, and what to do if they are affected.

One of the most effective methods to generate awareness
is a public information program aimed at a large
percentage of lagoon users. Presently, the CRM office
publishes a newsletter on various aspects of the envi-
ronment including a section about the Saipan Lagoon.
The newsletter is written in English/Chamorro and in-
tended for local residents. This is obviously a
beneficial activity. However, much can be done to
improve residents' and tourists' knowled-ge of water
safety. Following are some of the most important con-
cepts of a Public Awareness Information Program that
CRMO should implement as a part of their program.

Ix - 10

Radio Initiate public service
announcements devoted to basic water safety
awareness, u s JL @i gcase 1-iistories as examples Oi
the right and wrong ways to handle oneself in and
around the water.

Television - 30-second to one-minute spots
covering lagoon uses and potential hazards.

Site specific examples, documented cases of
injury, explore why these accidents occurred and
how they could have been prevented.

Newspaper - Following current practices,
continue to relate stories of importance
regarding lagoon hazards and the consequences of
misuses. Call attention to other information about
water safety.

Posters - Develop a series of posters
depiciting various water safety hazards, conse-
quences of misuse and methods of proper handling
or treatment. These should be trilingual English/
Chamorro/Japanese and should be posted in hotels
and other places where todrists/residents will see
them. This could be an annual high school
project sponsored by CRMO, with prizes for the
winners..
Brochures - Develop a shor'"L-1 brochure that
describes lagoon uses, use zones, hazards, con-
sequences of misuse and what can be done for
the prevention or treatment in the case of acci-
dents. This document could be placed in each
hotel room and/or distributed to each potential
user of the lagoon.

Signs Post signs along the beach
where particular uses are allowed or prohi-
bited. These would include swimming zones, boat
docking zones, strong currents, surf, riptide or
other such hazards. These signs should be
written in English/Chamorro and Japanese.

3. Cost Estimates for Water Safety Information
Program

Media Campaign
Develop 30 second C*C 60 second
public service announcements on
Radio, and TV $1,000

Ix -.11

Develop kducation Articles
For Newspaper 500
Develop Post-ers (201/ 500
Construct and erect signs (10) 11000
Develop Brochure (1000) 3,000

TOTAL $6,000

IX 12

CHAPTER X - WATER HAZARDS AND MARINE NUISANCE ABATEMENT PLAN

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT

The intent of this Plan is twofold. First, it will help to
abate the problems of jellyfish, Ancanthaster and other
nuisance animals in the Lagoon. Second, it will provide for
the removal of water hazards in the Lagoon.

As a result of analyzing personal interviews and field
investigations there is a need to establish abatement
measures for eliminating common or cyclic nuisances found
within the Saipan Lagoon. These nuisances were identified in
SALAPAT I & II. The most common nuisances are those that
affect lagoon users, particularly swimmers or divers, like
jelly fish as well as those nuisances that indirectly
affect everyone through the destruction of coral reefs, like
the Crown of Thorns starfish.

The proposed Plan also seeks to identify reasonable
abatement methods to enhance the safety of lagoon
users from hazards such as scrap metal on the beaches and in
the water, stinging jelly fish, (particularly the
Portuguese man-of-war) and protect the coral reefsi from
destruction by the Crown of Thorns starfish. The Plan
identifies the need for protection from these hazards and
nuisances and details a plan of action-in the form of lead
agencies to carry-out appropriate abatement measures.

B. REMOVAL OF LAGOON HAZARDS

Hazards to lagoon users are found primarily along the
beaches and in near-shore waters. These hazards include a
substantial amount of scrap metal, classified here as junk,
most of which remains from World War II. The impact on the
environment from scrap (junk) metal cannot go unmentioned.
Besides the aesthetic element, scrap metal rusts and begins
to break apart littering the shoreline and water offshore
with loose debris. Large rusting hulks discolor the sand
and leach metal into the near-shore environment changing
ambient conditions to less desirable conditions. Some
plants cannot survive in heavy iron situations. Scrap metal
on beaches trap sediments and sand which can build into
mounds, covering the entire structure. Although the junk
may be out-of-sight, this is usually temporary in nature.
Large storms can clear these sand deposits in a matter of
hours leaving the junk visible and hazardous. Most -impor-
tantly, scrap metal on beaches is dangerous to beach users,
particularly children who like to climb around on the
debris. Numerous cuts, often quite bad, result from these

objects. Not only is this junk a hazard to all l.agoon
users, it is also unsightly and a visual blight on what is
otherwise an extremely beauti.:Cul beach and lagoon setCling.

War-related junk is found along the entire west coast of
Saipan. However, the quantity and location a scrap metal at
a few areas pose particularly serious problems. Such junk
should be removed from the following areas.
North and sout@ of Sugar Dock.
In the vicinity of Garapan Dock.
In the vicinity of the Puerto Rico Dump.
In the vicinity of the Seaplane Ramp and Puntan
Flores.

C. LOCATION AND EXTENT OF MARINE NUISANCE ANIMALS

The crown-of-thorns starfish was sighted in water 20 feet
deep along the entire outer reef. Numbers were highest in
-,,the south and decreased towards the north. Unusually high
,@numbers were observed just inside the harbor entrance at
various shallow patch reefs to the southwest of Managaha
Island. Very few starfish were observed in shallow lagoon
water. P

The crown-of-thorns. starfish is a pest of major concern.
Thomas F. Goreau, noted ecologist, witnessed over 90 percent
coral destruction by the starfish on the patch reefs west of
Managaha Island in 1969 (Goreau, 1969). Regrowth has been
excellent, particularly in light of the 1973 starfish
infestation. In only 15 years the majority of the patch
reef area has been completely restored.

However, the destruction of the corals within the proposed
underwater trail is a threat now. Birkeland's 1983 starfish
infestation prediction was extremely accurate, and the
animal is well established along Saipan's western reef
system (Birkeland, 1982). From the south, the starfish has
moved into the Lagoon through the Tanapag Harbor Channel
entrance and through depressions in the barrier reef and is
making its way north along the inside of the barrier reef
directly toward the reefs and a proposed site for the
underwater trail.

Preliminary counts estimated the starfish at 250 for the 18
acre (73,000 m2) site. This is a significant and recent
increase. Removal of these starfish is especially needed on
selected reefs in the vicinity of Managaha Island,
specifically at the proposed underwater trail site and
nearby reefs. This should be an on-going process to ensure
protection of the area.

X 2

An Acanthaster removal program, even though limited in scope
to only cover the reefs within the proposed Mana'gaha
underwater trail area, will likely be labor intensive and
and costly. If volunteer help from a local dive club and
other concerned citizen groups are not feasible, then the
program will require a considerable amount of operational
fundina. Realistic cost estimates should be calculated
after all donated resources can be determined.

This starfish removal program is not designed to eliminate
all the starfish in the Saipan Lagoon or even all the
animals within the proposed underwater trail area. It is
merely a protective measure to ensure healthy coral
communities on the patch reefs within the vicinity of the
underwater trail. Although the corals eventually regrow in
a damaged area, and the species diversity often increases,
when the percent of damage is high the beauty and attraction
of the underwater trail will be seriously degraded and
create a negative impact on the numbers of tourists who want
to visit the park.

It is now generally accepted by most contemporary biologists
that Acanthaster infestations are cyclic phenomena triggered
by pe *riods of drought followed by heavy rainfalls and
subsequent runoff from the land. Increased nutrients enter
the water and result in a higher survival rate for the
starfish, which drift about and filter feed on planktonic
organisms during their larval stage. The end.result is much
greater numbers of adult starfish approximately three years
following such an event. Observations supp-ort the belief
that the Acanthaster outbreaks eventually "run their course"
and return to normal populations on the reefs. Since
Acanthaster is a natural part of Pacific coral reefs and,
thereFo-re, plays a role in the ecosystem as a whole, a
credible argument can be made for ignoring the starfish
over-population, even if it enters a sensitive area like a
marine park. The starfish then become a dynamic part of the
coral reef community and, as such, are an "attraction". If
they do enter the park area and it becomes obvious that a
substantial quantity of corals will be lost, control mea-
sures within the park should be considered.

The Stinging Jellyfish and Portuguese Man-of-War are animals
with little or no mobility of their own. Although most
jellyfish can swim, they usually ride on ocean currents and
winds, like the Man-of-War, until reaching shallow water
where they wash-up on a beach or rocky coastline.

These animals are a nuisance, since some have powerful
stinging cells. They are most dangerous while still in the
water where the stinging tentacles are extended into the
water column. Swimmers do not usually see these animals and

X 3

become draped with the stinging tentacles on virtually any
part of their bodies. These animals can also remain
dangerous after washing-up on the beach. Children have been
stung by sand that carries the remains of stinging cells
left from a jellyfish or Man-of-War. Others have been stung
on the foot or ankle as they step on these animals during a
stroll on the beach.

Stinging Jelly'fish or the Portuguese Man-of-War were
observed on a number of beaches from Wing Beach south to
Micro Beach. Prevailing northeast winds and currents drive
these animals to the closest point of land. Very few were
observed in the water or on beaches south of Micro Beach.

D. MARINE NUISANCE ABATEMENT PLAN

The objectives here are fourfold.

Determine the extent of the reef killing
threat of the crown-of-thorns starfish.
Determine whether infestation is a cyclical
phenomenon or the result of environmental
imbalance.
Determine what benefits, if any, result from
infestation. Determine the ecological signi-
ficance of the crown-of-thorns starfish.
Provide ongoing monitoring.

The Plan of Action is as follows.

The Department of Natural Resources will act
as the lead agency for nuisance abatement.
Through the. Division of Fish and Wildlife the
Department of Natural Resources will esta-
blish a Nuisance Abatement Program.
Personnel of the Division of Fish and Wild-
life will monitor the lagoon and beaches to
determine whether the area is experiencing
any nuisance like the crown-of-thorns star-
fish or jellyfish. . I
When identified, the Division of Fish and
Wildlife will notify the Director of Natural
Resources.
The Department of Natural Resources will
then implement the following plan to abate
the problem as follows

1. Crown-of-thorns Starfish Nuisance Abatement Plan
a) Personnel from the Department of Fish and Wild-
life having identified areas for potential
destruction shall:

X - 4

Organize diving teams to remove the star-
fish from selected areas
-ea: ude regular ;rzr-
T)v t ns s@iould _4.-cl Q -
sonnel from the Division and special in-
terest groups like dive clubs and other
concerned citizens.

b) Abatement methods involve the use of Formalin
injection, cutting the central organs from the
body or removal of the animal from the water.
The best method depends on available
funding, equipment and personnel.

c).Abatement will continue only as long as the
immediate problem persists in areas where
coral destruction is deemed detrimental by
CNMI officials.

2. Jellyfish Nuisance Abatement Plan
a) Personnel from the Department of Natural Re-
sources, Division of Fish and Wildlife and the
'Coastal Resources Management Office will be
responsible for identifying the threat of this
nuisance during regular monitoring and work
activities in near-shore water and on the
beaches of the Saipan Lagoon.

b) When a potential nuisance poses a significant
health hazard Directors of Natural Resources
and CRMO shall be notified.

c) Methods for removal of high concentrations only
work when the animal is beached. Crews must
shovel or rake the animals into piles and then
remove them in containers. - While concentra-
tions are high in the water, officials should
notify people to stay-out of the water and
post warning signs accordingly.

d) Notices shall be displayed in appropriate
places so that the potential Lagoon users will
be aware of the danger. Notices shall be in
bilingual Japanese/English and displayed or
announced on:

Sign posts along the beaches that are
affected.
Radio and TV announcements
Newspaper articles
CRMO Newsletter articles

X - 5

3. Monitoring Program

The Department of Natural Resources through the
Division of Fish and Wildlife, monitors marine waters
in the CNMI. The monitoring strategy is basic and only
weekly supported with personal and budget. The aim is
to monitor the marine environment and its changes over
time. The strategy should meet the objective.
Possibly the program need revision to down-scope the
weekly and monthly tasks to fit available personal and
budget.

A monitoring program for marine nuisances shall include
the following steps:

Establish six transects along the outer reef, each
one mile long.
Establish six transects along the inner reef, each
one mile long.
Establish at least two transects along the west and
southwest side of Mana,,.r,aha Island.
Monitor these transects--at least every 60 days.

E. BUDGET ESTIMATE FOR MARINE NUISANCE ABATEMENT AND HAZARDS
REMOVAL PLAN

Nuisance abatement plans and measures require the allocation
.of' time o.n the part of the Division of Fish and Wildlife
through the Department of Natural Resources for monitoring
on a regular basis. Monitoring of the entire lagoon from
the beaches seaward to the 60 foot contour should be a
regular part of the Division of Fish and Wildlife routine.

Monitoring activities for the Crown of Thorns starfish will
take approximately 2-3 days for each 60-day period. Similar
monitoring activities for other nuisance animals in near-
shore water and on beaches will take 1-2 days each 15-day
period. Cumulative time for both activities amounts to
approximately 2.5 mandays per working month.

Equipment required for monitoring the Crown of Thorns
starfish includes a boat, towing sled and scuba equipment.
At least two individuals are needed to survey in this
manner. Other equipment includes air fills, truck and boat
trailer. Monitoeing for other nuisance animals near shore
and on the beaches involves one person and a vehicle.

Cost of labor would amount to approximately $150 for two
workers per month for 2.5 days. Cost of equipment to
monitor for the Crown of Thorns starfish would cost
approximately $50. Total budget for one month's monitoring

x - 6

would cost approximately $325 and require no more than two
workers and no more than 20 cumulative hours. Total annual
cost is anoroximately $R,000.

Junk Removal for the specified location shall be
accomplished as follows:

Personnel from the CRMO aided by the Historic
Preservation Officer will survey areas identified in
this PLAN and other areas where scrap metal and other
junk exists on the beach or in shallow water.
Determine which pieces should be removed.
Findings shall be turned over to the Department of
.Public Works who will contract for this service.
The contracted cost of removing this scrap metal is
approximately $100,000.

PART FOUR
BEACH PARKS AND RECREATION PLAN ELEMENT

CHAPTER XI - BEACH PARKS AND RECREATION PLAN

A. SYNOPSIS OF DATA ANALYSES FROM VOLUME I AND
IDENTIFICATION OF PROBLEMS

Opportunity abounds for public recreation within the
Saipan Lagoon and along its shoreline. From the project
area's most northern tip at Wing Beach in the Magpi Planning
Area to the most southern extremity at Agingan Point in the
Puntan Afetna Planning Area, seventeen beach areas are for-
mally recognized as public recreation sites along the
Lagoon's shoreline. Additionally, Managaha Island is a
very popular recreation destination for residents and
tourists. This balanced distribution of shoreline sites
averages slightly more than one recreation area per mile: a
very favorable ratio.

Table XI-1 depicts the Planning Areas and public beach
recreation sites in each Area.

TABLE XI-1
BEACH RECREATION SITES BY PLANNING AREA

Planning Area Beach Recreation Site

Magpi Wing Beach
Unai Matuis Dikike
Unai Paupau
Unai Achugua

Tanapag Harbor Unai Tanapag
DPW Beach

Managaha Managaha Island

Puntan Muchot American Memorial Park
Micro Beach

Garapan Lagoon Unai Garapan
Unai Chalan Laulam

Puntan Susupe San Jose Beach
Civic Center Beach
Royal Taga Beach
Unai Susupe
Unai Chalan Kanoa

Puntan Afetna Unai Afetna

While beach-oriented public recreation sites are relatively
abundant, basic park-type improvements are either non-
existent', too few, or substandard at most sites.
Consequently, insufficient passive and active recreation
opportunities are presently available to the public, despite
the ample amount of beach strand and backshore land now
designated for these pursuits. An inventory of all parks
and beach recreation sites is presented in Volume I. The
type of facilities and improvements determined to be most
needed generally include:

Maintained access from Beach Road or some other
improved, nearby right-of-way for vehicles and
for bicycles.-
Parking areas, large enough to-accommodate anti-
cipated requirements but located away from
the beach and barricaded to prevent vehicular
access to the beaches.
Maintained, operational restrooms.
Picnicking facilities, including tables, benches,
barbecue pits, trash receptacles and. potable
water service.
Permanent pavilions of varying sizes.
Permanent park benches.
General recreation areas and playfields for unor-
ganized sports and games.
Sports facilities such as courts and fields for
volley ball, basketball, tennis, softball and
touch football.
Launching facilities for small boats.
Playground apparatus for pre-school and
elementary school-age children.

B. OBJECTIVES

The eight specific objectives that were developed for the
public recreation and beach park element of this SAIPAN
LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT PLAN, are consolidated into the
following four general objectives.

1) Outdooor Recreation Plan.

An Outdoor Recreation Plan for Saipan will provide for

XI - 2

an acceptable level of outdoor public recreation oppor-
tunities to . serve Saipan's resident and tourist
population. (Conceivably, such a Plan should be part of
an overall CNMI Outdoor Recreation Plan encomp"assing
Saipan, Tinian and Rota). At'. least three classifica-
tions of parks and recreation sites should be addressed
for Saipan.

a) Commonwealth Parks and Forests which commem-
orate sites and events of historical and/or
natural importance and serve all residents of
Saipan. The American Memorial Park and the
Marpi Commonwealth Forest are examples.

b) Community Parks which primarily serve nearby
community and village residents with a full
array of passive and active recreation
opportunities, although not all types of
.facilities are located at each site. The
size, facilities and proximity of these sites
are basically established by the needs and
preferences of the village to be served.
Unai Paupau is an example of a Community Park
for the village of San Roque.

c). Village Parks and Playgrounds which provide
special purpose recreation opportunities and
are generally smaller in size. Playgrounds
and athletic facilities at public schools are
typical examples of recreation resources in
this category, as well as tot lots and other
isolated sports facilities (i.e, public
tennis courts and track and field). These
types of parks and facilities are sometimes
incorporated within Community Parks and the
Commonwealth Park, especially along
shorelines in conjunction with beach parks.
However, playgrounds must be site-dependent
on walking distance to residential areas,
therefore they will often occur near to
housing, independent of other types of parks.

2) Upgrade Beach Park.s

Upgrading beach parks and shoreline recreation facili-
ties within the project area must be accomplished to
conform to the propose d Saipan Outdoor Recreation Plan.
This objective includes designating the seventeen
existing sites into an islandwide park and recreation
system- and, accordin.gly, to determine the necessary
improvements including acciess and parking, picnicking

XI - 3

facilities, additional trees, more and better main-
tained restrooms, and upgrading of boat launching fac-i-
lities, etc.

3) Establish New Beach Park

Lstablishing a new beach park in the southern region of
the project area, in the Puntan Susupe/Puntan Afetna
Planning Areas is necessary. This site should become
a well developed community Beach Park.

4) Bicycle Route

Providing for a Bicycle Route wh ich links the Saipan
Lagoon shoreline recreation sites with a safe corridor
for bicycle riding is desirable for both local. and
tourist recreational use.

XI 4

CHAPTER XII - SAIPAN OUTDOOR RECREATION PLAN

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT

An Outdoor Recreation Plan for Saipan has been established
as an objective of the SAIPAN LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT PLAN
and as a prerequisite to providing for an acceptable level
of islandwide passive and active outdoor public recreation
opportunities for residents and tourists. The extent of
accomplishing this objective involves:

Establishing a Scope of Work to guide the
formulation of a Saipan Outdoor Recreation Plan;
and
Estimating the cost of such Plan if it was
prepared through professional consultant services.

B. SCOPE OF WORK FOR SAIPAN OUTDOOR RECREATION PLAN

The following scope of work highlights the basic tasks to be
covered during the formulation of a Saipan 'Outdoor
Recreation Plan.

Inventory islandwide public outdoor recreation
resources.

Conduct a su'rvey of recreation preferences by
residents and tourists.

Develop a needs assessment to compare the availa-
bility of recreation resources with the public's
preferences and the established recreation
facility standards for Saipan.

Establish goals and objectives for development
of Saipan's outdoor recreation resources. '

Establish a classification of park and recreation
area development which addresses:

Federal/Commonwealth Parks and Forests;
Community Parks and Recreation Areas; and
Playgrounds and Sports Facilities

Prepare a comprehensive development plan for each
park and recreation area classification

Site specific physical improvements
Site specific program improvements

XII - 1

Cost estimates for improvements, operations and
maintenance Cost estimates for necessary land
acquisition or/other appropriate development
rights

Prepare a comprehensive management plan for ad-
ministering and financing the islandwide park and
recreation system.

Managerial responsibility for each classification
of area
Rules and regulations
Legislation
Operating and CIP budget forecast
Opportunities for financial support from the Federal
government and other sources

Present plan alternatives and proposed regula-
tions, administrative guidelines and managerial
policies to affected agencies and groups.

Present proposed Plan to public

Prepare final Plan for official adoption

C. COST ESTIMATE AND PROJECT SCHEDULE

The cost for such a P'lan will range between $30,000 to
$50,000 by a private consultant, depending on the amou6t of
basic data collection that is required or provided by the
Commonwealth Government. A reasonable project schedule is
approximately eight months.

XII 2

CHAPTER XIII BEACH PARKS AND SHORELINE RECREATION
FACILITIES IMPROVEMENTS PLAN

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT

The existing beach park and shoreline recreation facilities
along the Saip@n Lagoon need upgrading in order to provide
an acceptable level of recreation opportunities to residents
and tourists. Physical improvements, new facilities and
better maintenance all fall within the scope of upgrading.

The extent of accomplishing this objective involves:

Designating the existing beach parks and recreation
areas into the three classifications of Parks to be
established by the proposed Saipan Outdoor Recreation
Plan.

Determining the full complement of facilities and
improvements that should be provided at each of the
parks.

Assessing the inventory of existing facilities and im-
provements now available at each site, as presented in
Volume I.

Establishing the scope 6f facilities and i'mprovements
upgrading that are necessary at each park, including
design and construction budget estimates.

B. CLASSIFICATION OF SAIPAN LAGOON BEACH PARKS AND
RECREATION AREAS

The general criteria for park classification are outlined in
Section C of this Chapter; and more articulate criteria will
be developed as part of the proposed Saipan Outdoor Recrea-
tion Plan which encompasses islandwide recreation resources.
Nevertheless, it is necessary to preliminarily classify the
beach parks and shoreline recreation areas within this pro-
ject area in order to establish the level of improvements
and facilities to be provided at each site.

Table XIII-1 presents the classification of beach park and
shoreline recreation areas. Those parks which overlap into
two classifications must provide recreation opportunities
that will serve the intended purposes of each classifica-
tion. Each classification of parks is also presented on
Figure.XIII-1.

XIII - 1

TABLE XIII-1

CLASSIFICATION OF BEACH PARKS AND
SHORELINE RECREATION AREAS

PARK CLASSIFICATIONS

Planning Village Parks Community Commonwealth
Area and Playgrounds Park Park or Forest

Magpi Unai Paupau Wing Beach Marpi
Unai Achugau Boomtown Beach Commonwealth
Unai Paupau. Forest
Unai Achugau

Managaha Managaha Island
Park

Tanapag Unai Tanapag
Harbor DPW Beach

Puntan American American American
Muchot Memorial Park Memorial Park Memorial Park
Micro Beach

Garapan
Lagoon Unai Garapan
Unai Chalan
Laulau

Puntan Civic Center San Jose Beach
Susupe Beach Civic Center
Unai Susupe Beach
Royal Taga
Beach
Unai Chalan
Unai Susupe
Unai Chalan
Kanoa -

Puntan Unai Afetna
Afetna

XIII - 2

V/C

60MMONWPALT"H PA4RYI OR
IT
F;DIRE-:,
COMMUNrTY fPAKK

VJLLA:@F- @A'FZK ANP

C. PRELIMINARY NEEDS ASSESSMENT AND IMPROVEMENTS PLAN FOR
VILLAGE PARKS AND PLAYGROUNDS

Four Village Parks and Pla ygrounds are associated with
a
beach parks within the project area. They are at:

Unai Paupau, serving San Roque
Unai Achugau, serving Tanapag
American Memorial Park, serving Garapan
Unai Susupe, serving Susupe

Understandably, these four areas are a@so parts of other
parks within Saipan's islandwide park system, and those uses
will be addressed later iyi this Chapter under improvements
for Community Parks and for Commonwealth Parks. Further,
these four areas are not necessarily the only Village
Parks and Playgrounds to be designated for the respective
villages they serve but, rather, the only village parks and
playgrounds within the PLAN's project area. Other such
village-level parks are likely to be designated by the
proposed Saipan Outdoor Recreation Plan and accompanied by
,site specific improvementplans and budgets.

A Needs Assessmen t for Village Parks and Playgrounds is
generally computed in r-atios of standards such as park
areas/population or facilities/population, where the
population is determined by walking distance from the
park. Contemporary standards range from 1.0 to 2.5
acres/1,000 population for "neighborhood" parks, with
such typical facilities as playground equipment, multi-
purpose court, multi-purpose fields, benches and land-
scaping. In Saipan villages, as in most residential
areas, these types of facilities are usually developed
in conjunction with elementary schools. More specialized
athletic and sports facilities are usually found on the
campus of a junior and senior high school.

While some playground equipment is already available near
Unai Paupau (at the San Roque Elementary School) near Unai
Achugau (at Tanapag Elementary School) and near the American
Memorial Park (at Garapan Elementary School) these facili-
ties are, in whole, inadequate for two reasons:

The existing facilities are insufficient to meet
the needs of the walking distance population at
San Roque and at Tanapag; and
In consonance with one of this Plan's primary
goals, "to retain traditional uses and values of
the island", recreation areas should have an
orientation with the sea; therefore, all parks,
including these proposed Village Park and Play-
ground improvements, these should be developed

XIII - 4

at the Un6i Paupau and Unai Achugua beach parks
so that the traditional environment, is captured
as part of the recreation exnerience.

The following improvements are recommended at the four
sites in order to provide for Village Park and Playground
recreation opportunities. Due to the linear, beach strand
configuration of Unai Paupau, Unai Achugua, and Unai
Susupe, improvements at these three sites must be limited
to equipment facilities rather than space-occupying fields
and courts.

TABLE XIII-2
VILLAdE PARKS AND PLAYGROUND IMPROVEMENTS

Parks Improvements

Unai Paupau Benches, 4-6
Enclosed tot-lot play area,
20'x 30'
Playground apparatusi 2-3 types

Unai Achugua Benches, 4-6
Enclosed tot-lot play areas,
201x 301
Playground apparatus, 4-6 types

American Memorial
Park Benches, 4-6
Enclosed tot-lot play area,
30'x 30'
Playground apparatus, 4-6 types

Unai Susupe Benches, 4-6
Enclosed tot-lot play area,
20'x 30'
Playground apparatus, 2-3 types

D. PRELIMINARY NEEDS ASSESSMENT AND IMPROVEMENTS PLAN FOR
COMMUNITY BEACH PARKS

The Saipan Lagoon Shoreline creates some of the most out-
standing community park resources in Micronesia. While
Community Parks can take on various forms and purposes
depending on their size, proximity to residents and
tourists, and natural amenities, the 16 community parks
within this project area are all properly sub-classified as
"beach parks".

It is unnecessary to plan for identical improvements at each
beach park inasmuch as a formal needs -assessment

XIII - 5

conducted as part of the Saipan Outdoor Recreation Plan
would reveal that some of these parks should be exten-
sively developed while others should be left, more or less,
in their natural state.

For purposes of this Saipan Lagoon Use Management Plan,
therefore, these beach parks are divided into two
subclassifications: Beach - Park Natural (to be retained
basically in its natural state); and Beach Park - Developed
(to be improved for more intensive uses). These two
sub-classifications are presented in Table XIII-3 as
depicted on Figure XIII-2.

T@BLE XIII-3
COMMUNITY PARK SUB-CLASSIFICATIONS AS
BEACH PARKS - NATURAL AND BEACH PARKS - DEVELOPED

Beaches Parks - Natural Beach Parks - Developed

Wing Beach Unai Paupau
Unai Matuis Dikike Unai Achagua
Unai Tanapag DPW Beach
Micro Beach
Unai Garapan Civic Center Beach
Unai Chalan Laulau Unai Chalan Kanoa
San Jose Beach Unai Susupe
Royal Taga Beach Unai Afetna

E. DESCRIPTION OF RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS AT BEACH PARKS

The basic character of Beach Parks - Natural is one of low-
intensity development, 'natural environment and passive
recreation opportunities. Unimproved (without asphalt)
access roads and parking areas, no public restrooms or
picnic facilities and little or no beach maintenance
are typical of this category of beach parks.

Table XIII-4 lists the improvements recommended for each
Beach Park - Na.tural.

Table XIII-5 lists the improvements recommended for each
Beach Park - Developed

XIII 6

60MMUNITY PAIKIK5

NATURAL,
e,OM M UNITY FEACH FIARK - WATURAJ,

60t4muMtTy Er--A6H rAlZK - P--mVeLopialp

TABLE XIII-4

IMPROVEMENTS FOR BEACH PARKS - NATURAL

Public
Improvements
Park Existing Facilities Needed

Wing Beach Access road, compacted Road main-
coral, 1500 linear feet tenance, semi-
(if) annually,where
needed
Mowing and trash
clean-up
Trees
Parking,
compacted,
coral, for
10 vehicles, with
barriers

Unai Matius Dikike Access road, coral, None
1200 if
Unai Tanap-ag Pedestrian acc-esses, Clearing of
two at 300 if each path for
access to
beach

Trees
Parking along access road, Widening of
(back road between Public road shoulder
Works and Tanapag) to accommodate
parking for
10 vehicles

Unai Chala,n Laulau None None
San Jose Beach Picnic tables,3 Repair existing
Playfield tables and add
3 more Barbecue
pits, 2 Tables
Trash containers

Trees
Parking, compacted
coral for 10
vehicles

Royal Taga None None, except as
may be provided
by adjacent
resort

XIII 3

TABLE XIII-5
IMPROVEMENTS FOR BEACH PARKS - DEVELOPED

Public
Improvements
Park Existing Facilities Needed

Unai Paupau Access road, compacted Road maintenance
coral, 600 if semi-annually,
Picnic tables, 6 where needed
Camping area, Parking,compacted
coral for 20
vehicles, with
barriers
Add 6 picnic tables,
Add 6 trash con-
tainers
Public restrooms
at pavilion
Trees
Benches, 8-10

Unai Achugua. Access road, coral, Picnic tables, 6
200 if Barbecue pits, 4
Benches, 6

DPW Beach Access road, coral, Semi-annually
400 if road maintenance
where needed
Pavilion Parking,clear for
10 vehicles
Picnic tables, 2
Barbecue pits, 2
Benches, 2
Trash containers,1

Micro Beach Access road, paved and Pave portion which
compacted coral, 1600 if is presently com-
Public restroom pacted coral
Pavilion Enlarge parking
Picnic tables, 5 area to accommodate
Volley ball court 40 cars and bar-
Playground ricade parking
lot boundary
Picnic tables, 6
Barbecue pits, 6
Benches, 10

Unai Garapan Access road, compacted Dock and channel
coral, 300 if as recommended

XIII 9

Launching ramp by USACOE
Fishing dock Parking, paved
for 25
Parking for 6 vehicles
and boat trailors Picnic tables, 4
Trees

Play field Barbecue pits, 2
Benches, 6
Trash containers,3
Upgrade playfield
Public resCroom

Civic Center Access road, coral, 50 lf Picnic tables, 12
Beach Park Parking for 15 vehicles Benches, 10
at north end and for 15 Barbecue pits, 12
vehicles at south end Upgrade res"'.'rooms
Picnic tables, 6 Trees
Public Restrooms
Tennis court

Unai Chalan Kanoa Access road, paved, Parking, compacted
150 lf coral for 10
vehicles
Picnic tables, :5)
Ba-rbecue pits, 4
Benches, 5

F. COMMONWEALTH PARKS

The only park of this classification in this PLAN's project
area is the American Memorial Park. This park's site
improvements are already planned and presented in the
September 1983 "American Memorial Park - General Management
and Comprehensive Design".

G. ESTIMATED COST OF PARK IMPROVEMENTS

Park improvements budgets are presented in Table XIII-6 for
each Park. These budgets were prepared on the basis of unit
costs for the various facilities being recommended.
Inasmuch as unit costs can very depending on such factors as
field conditions that may be encountered, the number of
contractors involved with the improvements and other design-
dictated requirements, a lump sum budget* estimate is
presented for each park. It is recommended, however, to let-
out one design contract for all improvements in order to
reduce the cost of plan preparation for similar facilities
at different parks and for standardizing the design details
and construction methodology of the improvements.

The estimated cost of design for all recommended Park
improvements is $10,000.

XIII - 10

The budget estimate of $90,600 for construction of park
improvements is summarized below.

TABLE XIII-6
BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR PARK IMPROVEMENTS

Village Natural Beach Developed
Location Park Park Beach Park

Wing Beach na $3,000 na
Unai Paupau $3,400 na $10,000
Unai Achugua $4,800 na $ 3,500
Unai Tanapag na $29000 na
DPW Beach na na $ 3,500
American Memorial
Park $5,200 na na
Micro Beach na* na $15,000
Unai Garapan* na na $18,000
Civic Center-
Beach Park na na $11,000
San Jose Beach na $2,800 na
Unai Chalan Kanoa na na $5,000
Unai Susupe $39400 na na
$16,800 $7,800 $66@000

Not including USACOE recommended dock and channel

xiii - 11

CHAPTER XIV - AFETNA BEACH PARK PLAN

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT

The southern Saipan Lagoon shoreline has but a dearth of
park and recreation improvements. The growing population
of southern villages need more park and recreation areas.
Such a need, coupled with an overall objective of
geographically balancing the Island's developed Beach
Parks, have resulted in this Plan for the Afetna Beach
Park, located in the Puntan Afetna.Planning Area.

The elements of a plan for Afetna Beach Park include
improvements and new facilities necessary to design and
construct a well developed Community Park along Afetna
Beach,at the former US Coast Guard LORAN Station site (now
CNMI public land). Because this site holds substantial
value for other public or commercial leasehold uses, the
Beach Park Plan is concentrated in the southern portion of
the property, thereby reserving the remaining northern area
for other future uses.

The intent of this SAIPAN LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT PLAN is to
recommend a site development plan for the Afetna Beach Park,
complete with design and construction costs.

B. AFETNA BEACH PARK IMPROVEMENTS

Presently the Afetna Beach Park area is unimproved, with the
exception of two picnic tables and shelters at the beach's
southern end, near Agingan Point.

As a well-developed Community Beach Park, the following
improvements and facilities should be provided.

Access road, compacted coral, 1200 if
Parking, compacted coral for 20 vehicles
Picnic tables, 10
Barbecue pits, 6
Benches, 8
Trash containers, 10
Restrooms
Outdoor Showers
Pavilion, 301x 401
Playground apparatus, 3-4 types
Playfield for soft ball, volleyball
A general recreation area
Additional trees

XIV - 1

C. COST OF IMPROVEMENTS

Table XIV-1, below, itemizes the cost estimates for
Afetna Beach Park Improvements.

TABLE XIV-1

COST OF IMPROVEMENTS
AFETNA BEACH PARK

Facility Amount Estimated Cost

Access road, compacted coral 1200 lf $22,000
Parking, compacted coral 20 vehicles 3,000
Picnic Tables 10 3,000
Barbecue Pits 6 11000
Benches 8 1,000
Trash containers 10 500
Restrooms with outdoor
shower's LS 10,000
Pavilion 301x 401.' 207000
Playground apparatus 3-4 types 1,5GO
Playfield for soft ball,
volleyball and general
recreation area LS 3,000
Additional trees 50 500
$65,500
Contingency 4,500
$70)000

The surveying costs and engineering design fee should be
budgeted at $10,000.

XIV 2

CHAPTER XV - SAIPAN LAGOON SHORELINE BICYCLE ROUTE PLAN

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT

Due in part to the increasing interest being demonstrated by
residents and tourists in bicycling on Saipan, a bicycle
route is recommended to connect the Lagoon beach parks.

Such a plan must include a defined corridor stretching from
Wing Beach to Unai Afetna, along with appropriate improve-
ments and traffic safety features that cater exclusively to
the cyclists. This Shoreline Bicycle Route Plan presents
the site-specific improvements and their associated costs
for implementing the objective.

It is understood that Saipan has more to offer bicyclist's
than only a route linking the Lagoon's beach parks.
Those other, islandwide, recreation opportunities for bi-
cycling would be explored and developed as part of the
proposed Saipan Outdoor Recreation Plan.

Bicycling offers three types of benefits to Saipan. First,
its primary economic return is in providing for a popular
pursuit to those tourists who want to rent bikes and peddle
their way along the Saipan Lagoon shoreline. Biking is, of
course, very common in Japan and represe*nts the the
country's most basic means of transportation on a one-
person-one vehicle basis. Because nearly every Japanese
tourist is so familiar with bicycling, the implementation of
a safe and convenient Bicycle Route System creates a signi-
ficant market for additional tourism industry development.

Second, and of only minor economic importance, are the
increased public recreation opportunities provided by using
bicycles as the primary means of access to remote or less
developed recreation areas. Developing "bike trail" access
rather than "auto roadway" access to public recreation sites
is considerably less expensive and much more quickly imple-
mented. Even when cost is not a consideration, bike paths
require much less right-of-way to construct and, therefore,
encourage the possibilities' for- access easements across
privately owned lands instead of the typical requirement of
acquiring right-of-way for two auto travel lanes.

The third, and most insignificant economic benefit, is the
potential reduction in vehicle traffic as a result of bike
ways. It cannot be argued that more people, on fair-weather
days, will be inclined to make bike trips rather than auto
trips for their transportation needs. This tendency will

XV - 1

yield an occasional net reduction in vehicular traffic flowy
but in too few numbers and too inconsistently for factoring
into the desi@zn of future street and hiahway facilities.

B. PLANNIN.G CRITERIA FOR THE BICYCLE ROUTE

In general, the bicycle is emerging in western, developed
regions as an alternative mode of urban transportation.
While very few on Saipanese commute to work by bike or
conduct other forms of business in this manner, cycling is
becoming increasingly popular among tourists and among local
residents as a form of recreation and exercise. Con-
sequently, this aspect of the SAIPAN LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT
PLAN provides for "recreational riding" opportunities as
a leisure time activity for all ages.

It is well understood that the bicycle does not blend well
with other types of pedestrian or vehicular traffic, due
mainly to the differential in speeds as well as the
contrasting sizes. Consequently, special precautions
are necessary in planning and designing bicycle routes
so that they are both safe and convenient. Of the four
basic types of bicycling (neighborhood, recreational,
community, and sport or touring), routes for recrea-
tional riding are characterized by a minimum of conflict
with vehicular traffic. Also, visual experiences are
particularly important'; and special attention must be
given to providing pleasing visual impressions whenever
possible.

The three basic forms of bicycle paths that are planned for
this Shoreline Bicycle Route include:

Class I (Bike Path or Protected Lane)
A completely separated right-of-way desig-
nated for the exclusive use of bicycles.

Class II (Bike Lane)
A restricted right-of-way designated for the
exclusive or semi-exclusive use of bicycles;
through-vehicles are not permitted. Vehicle
parking and access to property, as well as
pedestrian access to parked vehicles, are
allowed.

Class III (Bike Routes)
A shared right-of-way designated as such by
signs placed on vertical posts or stenciled
on the roadway pavement.

XV - 2

C. TYPICAL PROFILES OF BIKE ROUTES

'-11-a Path c'
14.1. " L' -asses varlaLlons exis'cl
for adapting to field conditions, budget constraints and
safety factors. Combinations of all three classes, as well
as two variations within each class, are required to imple-
ment the Saipan Lagoon Shoreline Bicycle Route.

This section presents typical profiles that are incorporated
into the proposed Bike Route, along with a brief description
of the advantages and disadvantages associated with each
class variation. The following code is used,to designate
various features of the typical profile.

SW - Sidewalk BW - Bikeway
UT - Utility OTL - Outside Travel Lane
SB - Setback B - Bicycle Right-of-Way
BA - Barrier PED - Pedestrian Right-of-Way
PC - Parking MV - Motor Vehicle Right-of-Way

1. Class I Bikeways

These are completely separated right-of-way designated
for exclusive use of bicycles. Two variations of Class
I Bikeways, Variation A and Variation B, are employed
in the Saipan Lagoon Shoreline Bike Route.

FIGURE XV-1
CLASS I BIKEWAY VARIATION A

ApP

T7'
A-1
BA
L E3w op
PEE B -1, UT 11 MV

a) Bikeway designated exclusively for bicycle
use.
b) Striping recommended.
c) Continuous low berm applicable.
d) Minimum two-lane bikeway.
AA711; Aik

f
L

Advantages:

a) Provides horizontal and vertical separation
from motorized traffic, thereby eliminating
conflicts with an overtaking vehicle, autos
parking or entering the traffic stream from
their parking positions, and conflicts caused
by open cardoors.
b) A barrier is provided to separate pedestrians
and bicyclists.
c) Minimum of two-lanes one-way provides
adequate passing room for cyclists.

Disadvantages:

a) Bicycle crosses pedestrian traffic-flow and
conflicts are generated.
b) Since bicyclists are removed from the traffic
pattern, intersection and driveway conflicts
become critical because of the reduced cau-
tionary attitudes in both motorists and,
bicyclists.
c) Driveways pose other problems such as'
stopped vehicles within.the bicyclist's path
awaiting to enter the traffic pattern.
d) Motorists are likely to back their vehicles
into the bike lane rather than into the road-
way, which is potentially dangerous for bicy-
clists.

FIGURE XV-2
CLASS I BIKEWAY VARIATION B

47,

XV 4

a) Barrier to be provided between bike lane and
parked cars to prevent encroachment from cars
vi@iicii are parking.
b) Potential bicycle/opened cardoor conflicts.
c) Recommended for areas with high parking/low
turnover rates.
d) Minimum two lanes for bikes.

Advantages:

a) Providing a horizontal separation by using
parked cars effectively eliminates auto/
bicycle conflicts with the addition of
protection from out-of-control vehicles.
b) A curb barrier between the parked cars and
the bikelane will prevent encroachment by
autos attempting to park.
c) Maneuvering room may be inadequate with the
minimum recommendation of two lanes for the
bikeway.

Disadvantages:

a) Not only does the motorist know the bicyclist
cannot drift into the traffic pattern, he
will not be able to see the bicyclist, and
this aggravates the severity of intersection
and driveway conflicts. .
b) When the parking lane is ended the bicyclist
is exposed to the hazards inherent with
motorized traffic and both bicyclists and
motorists are unaware of the presence of the
other.
c) Motorists entering a driveway or exiting from
one effectively "box" the bicyclist within
the lane.
d) Bicyclist may drift into the parked cars with
the possibilities of injuries.
e) Opened cardoor conflicts are not adequately
resolved.
f) Potential conflicts with passengers exiting
from parked cars are not resolved.
g) Pedestrians crossing to parked cars create
other conflicts with bicyclists.

2. Class II Bikeways
These are restricted rights-of-way designated for the
exclusive or semi-exclusive use of bicycles. Through-
travel by motor vehicles is not allowed; however,
parking may be allowed.

XV 5

PLATE XV-3
CLASS II BIKEWAY VARIATION A

9;" OTL@

2,
I A/A
JIV/ I NAV//_1 \k/// k"',
MV

a) Pavement markers are the recommended barrier
between bikes and autos.
b) When curbs are to be used, access across bike
lanes must be prohibited..
c) Minimum of two lanes with a curb barrier.
d) No parking permitted when pavement markers
are the barriers used.

-Advantages:

a) Providing pavement markers can be deterrent
to motorists encroaching upon the bike lane.
b) Relative to curbs and pylons as physical
barriers, pavement markers are more
desirable barriers since the possibility of
a bicyclist spilling from his bike when
riding over the markers is reduced.
c) A curb barrier provides the best horizontal
separation in terms of eliminating encroach-
ment by motorists altogether. The minimum
two-lane requirement for bike lanes provided
with curbs is designed to allow maneuvering
room for bicyclists.
d) Prohibiting access into driveways alleviates
the problem of cross-auto-flow into the bike
lane, thereby eliminating these conflicts
for bicyclists.

Disadvantages:

a) Possibility exists for bicyclists to drift
over or into the barriers with serious
consequences.
b) Especially with respect to a curb barrier
provided between the outside travel lane and

XV - 6
t

the bike lane, the motorist is encouraged to
think the bicyclist cannot cross into. his
path and may be caught unaware if th-is
actually occurs.
c) Providing curb barriers intensifies the
possibilities of conflicts at intersections
where the barriers may be ended.

FIGURE XV-4
CLASS II BIKEWAY VARIATION B

I Ql@

Nlyl IV
3.W

MV
6A

a) Striping or pavement markers.
b) Parking restricted during peak,bicycle travel
hours.
c) One-lane bikeway only.
d) Clearance to outside travel lane and for
opened cardoors must be provided.

Advantages:

a) Restricted parking during peak bicycle travel
hours allows greater room for passing
cyclists and adequate maneuvering space.
b) There are no physical barriers such as curbs
or pylons which tend to lead motorists an-d-
bicyclists to be less cautious.
c) Maneuvering room is provided with clearances
from the traffic lanes and parked cars.

Disadvantages:

a) Cross-auto-flow by parking cars generates
potential conflicts.
b) Potential pedestrian/bicycle conflicts caused
by passengers exiting from parked cars.
c) Cars improperly parked may detract from
maneuvering room for bicyclists.

XV - 7

d) Cars entering the traffic stream from their
parking positions create further conflicts
especially if they wait to enter the stream
within the bicyclists' path.

FIGURE XV-5
CLASS III BIKEWAYS VARIATION A

a) Signed, shared right-of-way
b) Signs only to designate route.
c) No parking permitted.

Advantages:

a) The implementation of the Class III route
alternative is relatively inexpensive as
signing is the only necessary designation.
b) Bicyclists ride within the traffic pattern;
consequently, motorists and bicyclists are
well aware of the presence of each other.
c) Maneuvering space is only restricted by the
presence of other traffic.
d) Since bicyclists are already part of the
traffic stream, intersection conflicts and
driveway conflicts are less critical.
e) Prohibiting parking can decrease the volume
of intentional cross-auto-flow, thereby de-
creasing the potential for auto/bicycle
conflicts.

Disadvantages:

a) Bicyclists within the traffic pattern are
vulnerable to serious accidents and injuries;
and large volumes of traffic increase the
likelihood of serious or fatal accidents.

XV - 8
wr 4 @Vzzr.

b) Inherently restricted in speed, the bicyclist
may slow traffic and increase traffic tie-
UPS.
c) Overtaking vehicles and weaving autos are
hazardous to bicyclists, especially to
inexperienced ones.
d) Bicyclists may be forced by the presence of
traffic to ride at relatively high speeds
which affect their ability to control their
bikes.

FIGURE XV-6
CLASS III BIKEWAYS VARIATION B

Ee_

a) Signed, shared right-of-way.
b) Parking permitted.
c) No striping or barrier.

Advantages:

a) Relatively inexpensive to implement requiring
only the signing of existing routes.
b) Motorist awareness of the presence of
bicyclists is enhanced.
c) Bicyclists are not restricted to the
"bikelane", allowing maneuvering space for
any necessary evasive actions.
d) Intersection and driveway conflicts are still
less critical, as maneuvering space is not
restricted.

Disadvantages:

a) Pedestrian/bicycle conflicts are increased.
b) Again, the motorists is not aware of the
presence of bicyclists and, therefore, inter-
section and driveway conflicts become
critical.

XV - 9

c) Maneuverability is somewhat restricted, which
may be critical especially with the presence
of pedestrians.

Table XV-1 presents the minimum space requirements for the
Class I,II and III bikeway variations.

D. BICYCLE ROUTE IMPROVEMENTS

Figure XV-7 depicts the types of Bicycle Route improvements
that are recommended for the Saipan Lagoon Shoreline Bicycle
Route Plan.

Before the construction costs can be established for these
bikeway improvements, considerable surveying and preliminary
engineering are necessary to determine the exact scope of
reconstruction along the route. Anticipating that the total
cost for all improvements will be prohibitively expensive,
it is recommended that the next step be restricted to a
preliminary engineering study which establishes reliable
cost budgets for each type of improvement, the extent of
cadastral work necessary to accommodate the bikeway and
other project aspects such as utility relocations,
intersection re-designs and specifying cost-efficient
barriers for the Class I, Variation B, bikeway. -The cost of
such a preliminary study is approximately $25,000.

XV 10

TABLE XV-1
MINIMUM SPACE REQUIREMEN'TS FOR
BIKEWAY VARIATIONS

Bikeway Minimum Bikeway Recommended Minimum Remarks
Variation Width Space Required

Class 1 3.3' 5.81 5.8'paved
Variation A

Class 1 1,8' 7.5, Type B-3 curb barrieri no
Variation 8 door opening allowance
given.

Class 11 6.8' 7.5' Including curb Type B-3 curb barrier; .2-lane
Variation A barrier; outside traffic minimum to allow for
lane should provide i.0' passing cyclists.
minimum clearance.

Class 11 3.3' to 5.3' 13.3' from curb to outer Medium to hich parking density;
Variation B edge of bikeway off peak; lo; turnover.
13.5' from curb to outer Low parking density; off peak.
edge of bikeway

Class III NA 14.1' for outside traffic Low motor vehicle voiume-- Q-nd
Variation A speeds.

Class III NA 14.1' for outside traffic Low parking density; through
Variation 8 lane motor vehicle traffic restricted.
22.1' for outside traffic Medium to high density parking.
lane

CHAPTER XVI - BEACH FACILITIES MAINTENANCE PROGRAM

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT

The Commonwealth Government now maintains many beach park
facilities along the Saipan Lagoon shoreline. These facili-
ties range from access roads and parking areas to pavilions,
toilets, picnic tables and boat launching ramps. Despite
periodic efforts by the Department of Public Works, many of
these facilities are not maintained to standards that are
acceptable to either the public or the tourists.

The intent of this Chapter is to-prescribe a maintenance
program for the PLAN area's beach facilities so as to assist
Public Works in budgeting and implementing a repair and
maintenance program. The Department of Public Works must
concern itself with two aspects of its maintenance program
for these facilities: periodic maintenance; and as-needed
repairs. Since as-needed repairs are scheduled whenever
required, such as to repair broken waterlines or acts of
vandalism, they are not subject to the regularly scheduled
maintenance and up-keep described in this Plan.

B. FACILITY INVENTORY AND MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Table XVI-1, below, summarizes the various types of recrea-
tion facilities along the Saipan Lagoon shoreline parks
which are to be programmed for maintenance.

TABLE XVI-1
SUMMARY OF RECREATION FACILITIES
AND MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Scope of
Facility Maintenance Schedule
(minimum)

Access road, Re-grading and Biannual: once
compacted coral compaction where during mid-rainy
necessary season and once
at end of rainy
season

Access road, Maintenance of Annual, prior to
paved roadside drainage rainy season

Pavilion, open Painting, exterior Every two years
air, and picnic
shelters
XVI - 1

Concrete roof Every two years
Seal cracks

Roof, corrugated Annual
Check for loose sheets

Electrical system Annual
Inspect and repair
as necessary

Plumbing system Annual
Inspect and repair
pipes as necessary

Inspect and repair Monthly
leaking faucets and
showers

Restrooms Paint, exterior Every two years

Paint, interior Annual

Concrete roof Every two years
Seal cracks

Electrical system Annual
Inspect and repair
as necessary

Plumbing system Annual
Inspect and repair
as necessary

Inspect and repair Monthly
leaking toilets and
faucets

Picnic Tables
and Barbecue Inspect and repair Annual
Pits where necessary

Parking and other Inspect and repair Annual, prior to
paved areas such drainage system rainy season
as multi-purpose as required
athletic courts Re-paint lines Annual,shortly
and ramps after rainy
season

Playfield Inspect, lubricate Annual
equipment and repair as
necessary

XVI - 2

CHAPTER XVII SOILS EROSION AND SEDIMENTATION CONTROL
TECHNICAL MANUAL

A. STATEMENT OF INTENT

The intent of this Plan is to prepare a technical manual of
soil erosion and sedimentation control techniques and proce-
dures which are appropriate for the Commonwealth. Such a
manual will serve as a technical reference for implementing
Erosion Plans as now required by permitees under the
Commonwealth "Earthmoving and Erosion Control Regulations",
promulgated in April 1984. Section 4 of these Regulations
outline the requirements for a permit to engage in earth-
moving activities. One such requirement is an Erosion and
Sediment Control Plan which must present specific measures
and practices to control erosion and sedimentation resulting
from the proposed project's earthmoving activities.

A technical manual which describes various erosion and
sediment control measures appropriate for the Commonwealth
is not now available. Such a manual would be useful as a
primary reference for Government-approved structural and
non-structural erosion/sediment control devices as well as
for those vegetative measures -which have proven to be
successful for different soil types an d terrains on Saipan.

This Technical Manual. should be prepared under the
Government's guidance and be made available to all con-
tractors, designers and other potential Earthmoving
permitees.

The following Scope of Work is appropriate for directing the
preparation of a Technical Manual for Soil Erosion and
Sediment Control in the CNMI.

B. SCOPE OF WORK

1. Outline the Basic Principles of Erosion and
Sedimentation

Definition of Erosion and Sedimentation

Causes of Accelerated Erosion

Influencing Factors to Erosion

Causes of Sedimentation

Sediment Transportation and Deposition

XVII 1

2. Describe Erosion and Sedimentation Control Planning

Principl_-s lor Erosion and Sedimientation Con+.-r--.!
Planning

Planning Step #1 - Preliminary Evaluation of Site

Planning Step #2 - Preliminary Design

Planning Step #3 - Sub-surface Investigations

Planning Step #4 - Final Design

3. Describe Appropriate Erosion Control Measures

Functions of Erosion Control Measures

Types of Erosion Control Measures

Surface Roughening
Interception and Diversion Practices
Vegetative Stabilization
Non-vegetative Soil Stabilization

4. Des-cribe Appropriate Vegetative Measures for Control-
ling Sedimentation

Planning for Establishment of Vegetation
Minimum Slope and Surface Requirements
Soil Testing
Clay and Sand and Organic Matter Intermixing
Topsoiling
Liming and Fertilizing
Permanent Seeding
Temporary Seeding
Mulching
Sodding
Maintenance

Planning Guidelines for Preventing Sediment Runoff by
the Use of Vegetation

Vegetative Control Measures

Natural Buffers
Installed Vegetative Buffer
Contour Strips
Sod Inlet Filter

Temporary and Permanent Stabilization Through Vegeta-
tion

XVII - 2

5. Describe Appropriate Structural Measures for Control-
ling Sedimentation

Pre-Sediment Pond Techniques

Sediment Basin Techniques

Post-Sediment Basin Measures

6. Describe Construction of Erosion and Sediment Control
Measures

Roadway Construction

Underground Utility Construction

Building Construction

7. Describe Maintenance of Erosion and Sedimentation
Control Measures

Maintaining Vegetative Measures

Maintaining Structural Measures

Removal and Disposal of Sediment from Detention Ponds

C. COST ESTIMATE AND PROJECT SCHEDULE

The cost for such a Technical Manual will be approximately
$15,000, including printing. A reasonable project schedule
0
is'four months, including review time.

XVII - 3

PART FIVE
IMPORTANT HABITATS MANAGEMENT
ELF.' ENT

CHAPTER XVIII - IMPORTANT HABITATS MANAGEMENT PLAN

A. SYNOPSIS OF DATA ANALYSES FROM VOLUME I AND IDENTIFI-.
CATION OF PROBLEMS

During the data collection phase of this study important
habitats such as mangrove stands selected coral reefs in the
lagoon, turtle nesting sites and seagrass beds were identi-
fied and a general assessment of the condition of each
species was made. Literature related to these habitats was
obtained and reviewed in order to determine their relative
change over time. This was necessary in order to determine
the impact of development on these habitats and to determine
the level of protection needed. In general, very little
hard data are available for these habitats; and, therefore,
a picture of historical change is difficult to compose.
Without such data it is impossible to determine what effect
development has had on these habitats. Field investigations
alone do not give such an insight.

During field investigations no evidence was found regarding
specific areas used for shelling or any other purpose other
than what is identified in Volume I.

1. Mangrove Stands Habitats

Mangrove stands were surveyed from land and by boat.
This resource on Saipan is very small for a tropical
island (Figure XVIII-1). However, it is common to
find limited mangroves on islands with few small rivers
and limited estuaries, such as on Saipan. The extent
of mangroves on Saipan is limited to three extremely
small stands.

The first stand is in a small tidal estuary at the
mouth of a storm drainage basin at Lower Base toward
the northern extreme of Puntan Tanapag. The area of
tidal influence extends to the road, through a culvert
and north along the road approximately 20 meters (65
ft). This area continues along the road another 50
meters (165 ft) as a depressed wetland fed by a
natural spring and rainwater runoff. It is only
remotely affected by the tides. It has been reported

XVIII 1

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that at one time the entire wetland was probably a
small bay open to the harbor. However, with the exten-
sive filling from wartime activities and development
over the years the outlet has been reduced to a narrow
streambed. One estimation puts the mouth of this
stream approximately 600 meters (2000 ft) from the
harbor. Most likely, the stream drained a large low-
land area presently covered by fill and supporting
buildings in the vicinity of Puntan Flores.

Only one species of mangrove exists in this limited
area, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza. This species extends from
the mouth of this estuary along both sides to the
bridge. A few mangrove trees can be seen on the oppo-
site side of the road but they dissipate rapidly.
Other wetland-type plants in the area are Phragmites
karka (Kariso), Hibiscus tilaceus (Pago) Acrostichum
aureum (Langayao), Cyperus alternifolius--7-umbrella
sedge), a number of grasses common to these islands
like Pennisetum purpureum (elephant grass) and
Sporobolu-s virginius (salt grass). A few small trees
exist in the area, such as Pandanus tectorius (Aggak),
Pithecellobium dulce (Kama_c_h_i_1_e7_ and the- common
Ueucaena leucocephaUi (Tan,gan-Tangan). -.A few small
weeds, ,vine and bushes like Bidens pilosa (Beggars
tick), Pluchea indica and Ipomoea pes/caprae (Beach
morning glory) r out species composition.
The- second small mangrove stand is fo'und just south of
the Puerto Rico Dump along a short segment of coast-
line. The extent of the mangrove area is a patch
measuring 300 meters long by 10 meters wide. Bru_guiera
gymnorrhiza is the only mangrove species in this area.
Thi-S Ti@te is fed by fresh water along the shoreline
from a small wetland directly. east of Beach Road and to
the south 100 meters across from Smiling Cove. Man-
groves are also found at this site. Data suggest that
the area was likely a poorly-drained marsh. The area
is now filling in, a process which is facilitated by
expansion of the dump.

The third mangrove stand is located on the east side of
Beach Road directly across from Smiling Cove.
Bruguiera norrhiza is the only species of mangrove
livinT here and only in isolated stands. It appears
that the area was once connected to the ocean because
of the wetland appearance. However, no direct connec-
tion now exists. The water is definitely estuarine and
likely affected by the tides.

Associated vegetation in the vicinity of these sites
include the following: Hibiscus tiliaceus (Pago),

XVIII - 3

Leucaena leucoephala (tangan-tangan), Pluchea indica,
Ipomoea pes-caprae (Beach morning glory) and a few
weeds like Bidens pilosa (Beggars tick).

2. Coral Patch Reefs Habitats

The Saipan Lagoon is rich in resources particularly
those associated with coral reefs. The barrier and
*fringing reefs form a contiguous reef zone from north
to south along most of the West Coast of Saipan. This
reef is an important habitat in itself since it
provides the homes for all other reef-associated marine
biota. This particular habitat is not addressed in
detail in this PLAN since it is already protected by
existing regulations such as those regarding the taking
of coral, trochus and a few other marine species.
Promulgated by the Department of National Resources and
carried out by the Division of Fish and Wildlife,
however, much could be done to improve efficiency in
operation.

Three patch reefs within the lagoon, represent a rich
resource that reqVire protection. Two of these patch
reefs are comprised of one dominant coral, Acropora
formosa know as staghorn coral. The largest of these
patch reefs is located just inside the reef at the
Japanese lighthouse. The sec 'ond and smallest of these
Acropora patch reefs is located at the northern extreme
of Paupau beach.

A third patch reef is quite different than the other
two with much greater coral diversity. Numerous
species of corals can be found here supporting a much
greater variety of marine life. This area is located
in the central lagoon just north of Tanapag Harbor.
Fishermen can often be seen using various fishing
techniques around this reef.

These three patch reefs are excellent fishing grounds
for spearfishermen and should be protected from illegal
activities like cloroxing or blasting. Local spear-
fishermen use these areas constantly because of their
proximity to shore and abundance of resources. The
upper portion of the Acropora patch is mostly dead
coral with associated incrusting sponge and algae. The
lower portions of the reef is alive and teeming with
life. However, the patch reef north of Tanapag Harbor
is mostly live coral throughout.

3. Managaha Island Underwater Trail Plan

A natural spinoff of the PLAN is the development of a
marine park in the vicinity of Managaha Island. One of

XVIII - 4

the primary interpretative aspects of this park is an
underwater trail. This trail involves two coral arcs
located in shallow water to the northwest of Managaha
Island. The area is characterized as a group of
diverse coral heads with a few unique sights.

At this time a Marine Park Management Plan is being
developed for this site. An underwater trail has been
layed-out, and a management plan with interpretation
features is nearly completed. Because of the positive
tourist attraction this trail will provide, its
protection is essential; although protective
legislation is not in place at this time. Before the
Marine Park Management Plan is accepted and adopted, a
public hearing and legislative action must be taken.

4. Seagrass Beds Habitats

Three species of seagrass exist in the Saipan Lagoon.
These are Enhalis accoroides, Halodule uninervis and
Halophylla minor. ach of these species has its own
geographical raFg-e. However, all three live in close
proximity in the Garapan Lagoon Planning Area.
A:
Seagrass beds are an important resource in the Saipan
Lagoon since they provide protection for juvenile
fishes. Thick mats of seagrass are found in shallow
waters in the Garapan Lagoon from Puntan Muchot to
Puntan Susupe. These beds exist along the shoreline
approximately 5 meters from the mean tide line into the
lagoon and approximately 200 meters from the shoreline.
Rich' coral on the outside barrier reef provides a
habitat for adult stages of the various reef fishes.
Seagrass beds in shallow near-shore waters provide the
habitat for the juvenile stage of the same fishes.
Adults bear their young in these thick seagrass beds in
order to provide them protection. When the juveniles
grow to adult size they migrate to the coral habitat at
the edge of the barrier reef and eventually into deeper
water.

B. OBJECTIVES FOR IMPORTANT HABITATS MANAGEMENT PLAN
ELEMENT

The intent of this PLAN is to prepare a management plan for
mangrove stands and selected patch reefs and to prepare
legislation which protects these specific areas.

XVIII

Mangrove forests, selected patch reefs, seagrass beds and
the coral reefs designated for this purpose represent
important habitats in that they are breeding grounds for a
Yariety of marine and terrestrial wildlife. For this unique
reason, these habitats need protection to prevent their
destruction. This is particularly true in the Saipan Lagoon
which has only three small mangrove stands (two located at
the American Memorial Park and one near the Commercial
Port), limited patch reefs, seagrass beds and coral reefs in
close proximity to land.

The proposed Plan identifies the need to protect these
resources through legislation, preserve the resource
through a management plan and monitor the resource
through an on-going monitoring program within the framework
of existing CNMI government agencies.

The specific parts of legislation for protecting important
habitats are listed below:

Develop an act to protect Mangrove stands and
patch reefs.
Identify the lead agency in co-njunction with
supporting agencies (DEQ, CRMO, and Division of
Fish and Wildlife) to provide supporting evidence
in the legislative process.
Obtain the support of Federal Government Agencies
(ACOE, US Fish and Wildlife Service, US EPA and
others).
Develop memorandums of understanding between
governmental concerns.

Important habitats within the PLAN area are depicted on
Figure XVIII-2.

XVIII 6

Mangrove forests, selected patch, reefs, seagrass beds and
the coral reefs designated for this purpose represent
critical habitats in that they are breeding grounds for a
variety of marine and terrestrial wildlife. Fo-'r this unique
reason, these habitats need protection to prevent their
destruction. This is particularly true in the Saipan Lagoon
which has only 'three small mangrove stands (two located at
the American Memorial Park and one near the Commercial
Port), limited patch reefs, seagrass beds and coral reefs in
close approximately to land for tourists to dive at.

The proposed Plan identifies the need to protect these
resotirces - through legislation, preserve the resource
through a management plan and monitor the resource
through an on-going monitoring program within the framework
of existing CNMI government agencies.

The specific parts of legislation for protecting critical
habitats are listed below:

Develop an act to protect Mangrove stands and
patch reefs as rare, threatened and endangered
habitats.
Identify the lead agency in conjunction with
supporting agencies (DEQ, CRMO, and Division of
Fish and Wildlife) to provide supporting evidence
in the legislative process of declaring these
areas as critical habitats.
Obtain the support of Federal'Government Agencies
(ACOE, US Fish and Wildlife Service, US EPA and
others).
Develop memorandums of understanding between
governmental concerns.

Critical habitats within the PLAN area are depicted on
Figure XVIII-3.

XVII,I - 7

CKITICAL
WE@ 17ATS

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TLIFKi'Lr-- NP05PN,::5j -4,9P@:

CHAPTER XIX - IMPORTANT HABITATS MANAGEMENT PLAN

A. LEGISLATION FOR THE PROTECTION OF IMPORTANT HABITATS

Exhibit XIX-1 presents proposed legislation to protect
important habitats.

EXHIBIT XIX-1
AN ACT TO PROTECT IMPORTANT HABITATS

Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands
Department of Natural Resources

The Department of Natural Resources in conformity with and
pursuant to CNMI statutes, and every other law hereunto
enabling does hereby adopt the following act for the
establishment, protection and regulation of important
habitats, Saipan Lagoon CNMI.

PART I

Section 1. Establishment of Important Habitats
Department of Natural Resources does
hereby declare and establish the'
Important Habitats Zone (described in
detail in Section 3 of this part).

Section 2. Pur.2ose. It is the purpose of this
regulation to preserve, protect and
conserve the marine and terrestrial
resources and geological factors asso-
ciated within the boundaries of the
zones identied in Section 3 of this
part.

Section 3. Important Habitats Zone. These habitats
shall include those zones, identified
in the siting map (Figure XXI-1) and
referenced as follows:

a. Mangrove stands at Lower Base and along Unai
Sadog Tasi in the Tanapag Harbor region.

b. Potential Managaha Island Marine Park

C. Acropora Patch reef at the light house
in Garapan Lagoon

XIX - 1

d. Acropora patch reef in the vicin ity of
Paupau Beach.

e. Diverse coral patch reef in Central Lagoon
north of Tanapag Harbor.

f. Seagrass beds, Halodule uninervis particu-
larly, in the vicinity of Garapan Lagoon
near-shore.

9. Turtle nesting sites at Wing Beach and San
Antonio Beach.

PART II

Section 1. Activities prohibited. It shall be
unlawful for any person to:

a. Fish for, take, process or remove any fish,
mollusk, crustacea, or other marine or ter-
restrial animal within mangrove stands and
associated marine environment except for sub-
sistence purposes.

b. Take, alter', deface, destroy, possess or re-
move any rocks, coral, sand or. other
geological features or specimens.

C. Contaminate or otherwise alter the physical,
chemical or biological properties of the
waters, including change in temperature,
taste, color, turbidity or odor thereof,
or to discharge, directly or indirectly waste
materials of any kind, whether treated or
not and whether animal, mineral, or
vegetable, and whether liquid gaseous, radio-
active or solid including sewage and agricul-
ture and industrial wastes, so as to cause
said waters of these habitat zones to be
reduced in quality below the established Water
Quality Standards as established and amended
by the Department of Environmental Quality and
any amendments thereto, which are hereby
incorporated herein and made a part of these
regulations.

d. Construct, install, erect, or place piers,
jetties, moorings, utilities or structures of
ajay kind, or sink any type of water craft
or other sizable object, or abandon any type
of water craft or other sizable object, sunk

XIX - 2

or unsunk without permission of proper
governmental authoritv@

e. Operate, anchor or move any vessel in a manner
contrary to the Rules and Regulations
Governing Boating of the Dept. of Transporta-
tion, U.S. Coast Guard, and any amendments
thereto, which by reference are hereby incor-
porated in this Regulation and made a part
hereof as though fully recited herein.

Section 2. Exceptions. Notwithstanding any provi-
sion of this regulation to the contrary
and except as prohibited by any other
rules, regulation or law, it shall be
lawful for any person to:

a. To fish for, take, possess or remove any
marine life by the use 'of hook and line,
spearfishing or trapping except for s-ub-
sistance purposes. There shall be
absolutely no dynamiting or cloroxing as
a method for fishing.

b. Take, for scientific, propagation, or other
purposes except as approved by the Department
of*Natural Resources, Division of Fish and
Wildlife thereof any fish, corals, mollusks,
crustacea and other form of marine animal.

Section 3. Penalty. Any person violating the provi-
sion of this regulation shall be fined
not more than $500 or imprisoned not
more than 90 days or both.

B. IMPORTANT HABITATS MANAGEMENT PLANS

Concurrent with establishing legislation for the protection
of mangrove stands and selected patch reefs, it is necessary
to develop a Management Plan to ensure their protection in
the future. The purposes of this Management Plan are to:

Maintain the ecological balance;
Protect fish nursery and stock;
Provide habitat for selected species;
Provide protection of Saipan's only Mangrove
stands for the sake of education and
research;

XIX - 3

Establish standards for the protection and
further propagation of mangrove stands in the
Saipan Lagoon; and
Maintain selected patch reefs and seagrass
beds for the propagation of such species.

The Plan to manage important habitats for coral patch reefs,
mangrove stands and seagrass beds, follows.

Designate these habitats by legislation
Designate the Department of Natural Resources
as the lead agency, with the Department of
Fish and Wildlife as the subordinate agency
for monitoring purposes. to
Monitor these habitats on a regular basis
to ensure their protection.
Levy a penalty for any violations or
infractions.

XIX 4

PART SIX
ENERGY FACILITIES PLAN ELEMENT

CHAPTER XX - SITING CRITERIA FOR ENERGY FACILITIES

A. SYNOPSIS OF DATA ANALYSES FROM VOLUME I AND IDENTI-
FICATION OF PROBLEMS

Volume I of the PLAN outlines the general and specific
energy related facilities on Saipan, all of which are
located within the Tanapag Harbor Planning Area except for
privately owned, back-up equipment (Refer to Volume I, Part
B, Chapters II. 2a and VIII. 4). Within this planning area
is the 28.8 MW power plant with 10.3 MW back-up generators,
pipelines between the Mobil Bulk Oil Plant and DPW Fuel
Storage area at Charlie Dock, and the power plant shop
bunkering pipelines at Charlie and Baker Docks.

Electrical generating equipment on Saipan barely meets
current energy demand. In 1981 peak load was estimated at
15.4 MW and the baseload at 11.6 MW. Old and inefficient
equipment and breakdowns accolunt for the short-comings.

Energy users on Saipan have been enjoying a substantial
energy subsidy over the years and do not pay their share for
energy co'nsumption. The 1982 production cost of electricity
(most recent accurate data available) was $.12/kwh. Until
1976, only $.03/kwh was charged to all consumers. Since
then, rates have been charged at $.06/kwh for 0-2000
kwh/month, $.07/kwh for 2001-25,000kwh/month, and $.03/kwh
for more than 25,000 kwh/month. This rate structure does
not meet the $.12/kwh cost of production. In addition, the
CNMI Government does not pay for its consumption, and the
old TTPI Government pays a flat rate of $400,000 per year.
The effective net result of revenue derived from energy
consumers in the CNMI is $.02/kwh, or nearly six times less
than the 1982 estimated cost of production.

Rising energy costs are also a problem in the CNMI.
Continued, increased federal funding is the only way in
which the CNMI Government can keep pace with the rising cost
of energy production in its oil-based energy dependent
society. Besides the economic problems inherent in this
situation, other special problems exist, especially if t4e
oil supply were to be depleted or if prices rise
dramatically. Both of these situations would stress an
already fragile relationship between the energy suppliers
and users.

XX - 1

B. OBJECTIVES FOR ENERGY FACILITIES SITING CRITERIA

The primary objective of the energy facilities Sit-!_ng
criteria is to determine the elements that should be
examined for expansion of existing as well as the
development of new energy facilities. Primary elements
include physical/environmental as well as social aspects,
such as proximity of generating and distributing facilities
to residences.

C. SITING CRITERIA

It is important to understand the impacts that can be
reasonably anticipated by new or expanding energy
development in the PLAN area so that it is possible to
invoke mitigation measures by intelligently anticipating the
cumulative effects of these impacts. These mitigating
measures will lead to more appropriate siting of the
facilities and result in less impact on the physical and
social environment.

Siting criteria require that the following elements be
examined closely.

Physical/Environmental

Resource requirements
Water, land and air pollution

Social

Proximity to residences
Visual and noise pollution

Within these elements the siting criteria are divided into
general and specific aspects for two energy sources:
conventional oil and alternate sources (i.e. coal, biomass,
and solar salt-gradient ponds).

1. Conventional Oil Fired Energy Facilities Siting
Criteria

Locate in proximity to a water source (ocean,
lagoon) for cooling water supply.

- Development of a surface cooling water
source.
- Development of a deep water (60 ft.
minimum)
disposal site for heated effluent.

XX - 2

Locate in proximity to commercial port for
easy transmission of fuel.

Locate in central proximity to consumers.

Minimize pollution (air, water, noise, land)
on the environment.

2. Coal Fired Energy Facilities Siting Criteria

Adequate, adjacent land to existing power
plant for

Expansion of existing facility to
accommodate a coal fired plant.

Coal stockpiling

Locate in proximity to commercial port for
coal transshipment to energy facility.

All other issues stated for con.ven'ttional oil
fired energy facility.

3. Biomass Fueled Energy Facilities Siting Criteria

Adequate, adjacent land to exi-sting energy
facility for a biomass conversion plant.

Proximity to biomass source (residential or
business customers) or adequate transpor-
tation of fuel feedstock to energy facility.

4. Solar Salt Gradient Energy Facilities Siting
Criteria

Adequate land (2 ha plots), flat and none
permeable.

Shallow lagoon (2 ha plots) which can be
bermed for protection.

Proximity to distribution system for easy
connection.

Protection from in-undation by extreme tidal
.fluctuation or heavy rains.

XX - 3

PART SEVEN
IMPLEMENTATION PLAN ELEMENT

CHAPTER XXI SUMMARY OF PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS

The purp oses of Plan Element Seven are to recap the
recommended Plans presented in Plan Elements Two through
Six and to present the administrative, financial and legal
requirements for implementing each Plan. Also, this Plan
Element identifies issues of national significance that
relate to the implementation of this SAIPAN LAGOON USE
MANAGEMENT PLAN as well as a general assessment of the
proposed PLAN's impact on the Saipan community.

Table XXI-1 categories the PLAN recommendations with respect
to the following implementation requirements.

Agency with administrative purview over recommendations
Coastal Resources Management Office
Zoning Administration Office
Department of Public Works
Department of Natural Resources
Department of Public Health and Environmental
Services
Department of.Pbrks and Recreation

Financial
Executive Branch Operating Budget
Capital Improvements Project Budget

Legal
Public Law for Enactment
Public Law for Appropriation
Regulations

XXI 1

v
TABLE I-!
TMPLEMENTATION REODUIRCMEWS FOR
?LAN RECOMMENDATTONS

REFERENCE
H (El No.
FIGURE (F) No. PLAN REC ENDATIONS
ADMINISTRATIVE FINANCIAL ;EGAL
3ECTIONS fS! (SHORT TITLE"; ILEAD AGUCY)

Brancn Public
Zones ana Land Use District Zoninc @aw
IV.3
Act of CrIMI Administration Operat4na Budge,: For Diactrrent
Office

(S) iv.a.-., Amendment to Section 9 of oni na %A Public: Law to
amend @Ict
-,Ones and Land Use District Administration
Offici

(SI 1V.3.2 Expansion of Village Zone of 7 ' NA Public: Law to
oning
San Antonio-Zones and Land Admi ni strati on amenci Ac--
Use District A&, Office

(S) IV.3-3 Pauoau Resort Zone in Northern Zoning NA Public Law to
Saipan-Zone5 and Land Use Administration amena Act
District Act- Office

(E) Shore; i ne Szetbacks Coasta 3 Resources NA Re--u i at-i ons
3fz:,lce

4
'T) _e_ ;.on i nd Reauiations
V-1 Property 37 tbacksT Structure
Height's and Densities Administration
Office

E) V-2 Lot Coveracie for Commerc-;al Zoni no NA Reau i av ons
and Resort Zones Administration
Office

(E) V-3 Setbac.K and Heicht Reaujations Zoning NA Regulations
for Commercial and Resort Zones Administration
Office

,E) V-4 Shoreline Fencing Regulations Coastal Resources NA Regulations
Management Office
(E) VI-1_ Landscaping Guidelines Zoning, --xecutive Branch Approoriation
Adimini strati on ODerati na Budget-
Office

(Elf VI-1 Regulations For Dredging t-oastal Resources NA Regulations
Diking and Landfilli;g 'along Management Office
Coastal Areas

XXI 2

(E! 11-2 Resuiat4ons lor 3Lructures Coastal Resources U Regutations
locatea on Near @Jhore ;no Manacement Of-,-4c--
Beach Strand Ecological Zones

(Ell 41-3 Regulations For Mining along Coastal Resources NA Requiations
Coastal Strana Management Office

(S) @11 I. Beach and Shoreiine Re-s-coration Depart-meqt of CIP Budget Appropriat;on
Public Works

(T) 411.3.1 Shoreline Water Facilities Depar-ament of ecutive Branch Appropriation
?1anninc Public Works Operatina Budoe!:

'I rT_ 3roundwater Management Task Departnent of NA NA
Force Public Health
and Environmental
4ervices

(S) VII.C.1 Shoreline Wastewater Facilities Department of CIP Budget Appropriation
Planning Public Works
(S) VIL)..' Storm Drainage Design Criteria Department of Executive Branch Appropriation
Pubiic Works Operating Budget-

(S) VII.@ Plannina Criteria for Evaiuating Coastal Resources UA 11A
I -
Development Impacts Management Office

-7*<. 3 Re-ceation Use Zones For 3aipan Department of Execut4ve Branch Aooropria:4on
I-aqoon Parks and Recreation Ooeratino 3uaget

(S) !X. 3. S Water Recreation Advisory Board Coastal Re-sources NA NA
Management Office

-TX.C Executfve Branch Appropriation
S) Water Safety Information Program Department of
Parks and Recreation Operating Sudgeti

(S) X-3 Hazards Removal Plan Department of CIP Budcet Appropriation
Parks and Recreation

(S) X.D Marine Nuisance Abatement Plan Department of Executive Brancn Appropriation
Natural Resources Operating Budget.

(S) X11.3 Saipan Outdoor Recreation Plan Department of Executi-ve Branch Appropriation
Parks and Recreation Operati,no Budget-
(T) XITI-2 1morovements For Villace Parks Department of CIP Budger Avoropriation
and Playgrounds Public Works
(T) XIIT--J improvements for Beach Parks - Department of CIP Budget Appropriation
Natural Public Works

XXI 3

(T) @TTJ-;
A.L - improvements For .3each Parks - 3epar-ment of CIP Budget Approor@larion
Developed Public Works

k@ S', AI:V.3 Afetna Seaci Parx improvements Department of CIP audae@: Approomat-i@on
Public Works

(F) XV-7 3icycie Route Improvements Department of CIP 3udcei- ApproDr4ation
Public Works

(T) XVI-I Recreation Facilities and Depart-ment of NA ALA
Maintenance Schedule Public Works

(S) -%Ix.s Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Department or E-xecutive Branch Appropriation
Control Technical Manual Public Health Operating 3udget-
and Environmental
Services

(E) AXIX--; Cr-;ticai Habitats Protect4on Department of NA Public Law
Act Natural Resources for Enactment

Is) xIx.3 Critical Habitats Management Department of INA NA
Plans Utural

XXI 4

CHAPTER XXII - ADMINISTRATIVE, FINANCIAL AND LEGAL
REQUIREMENTS FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF PLANS

The primary responsibilities for implementing this PLAN fall
to the following agencies of the Government of the Northern
Marianas Islands.

Coastal Resources Management Office
Zoning Administration Office (as proposed by
legislation now under consideration by the CNMI
Legislature)
Department of Public Works
Department of Natural Resources
Department of Public Health and Environmental Services
.Department of Parks and Recreation

Their 'respective roles for implementing this PLAN are
outlined in the following sections of this Chapter.

A. COASTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT OFFICE

The responsibilities of CRMO are two-fold with respect to
implementing 'the SAIPAN LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT PLAN. First,
as the PLAN's lead agency, CRMO- must serve as the
Government's primary advocate for implementation. This
involves coordinating the various responsibilities for
implementation among the respective agencies; helping to
resolve the inevitable conflicts that arise among the
public, the Executive Branch and the Legislative Branch as
implementation takes place; providing financial grant
support, wherever possible, to other agencies with
administrative responsibilities for implementing aspects of
this PLAN; and serving as the spokes-agency for promoting
the public benefits and economic growth that evolve from
properly managing the Lagoon's resources and from coastal
resources planning in general.

The second CRMO responsibility for implementing this PLAN
pertains to those particular plans for which the agency has
administrative purview to implement. Those plans are
extrapolated in Table XXII-1, along with their respective
financial and legal requirements for implementation.

The present administrative purview of CRMO could conceivably
embrace other PLAN recommendations by virtue of the agency's
permitting authority and wide-ranging influence in land use
development and lagoon resource management matters.
However, this PLAN recommends that only those
recommendations pertaining exclusively to shoreline
management (e..g., near-shore and beach strand development,
etc.) and interagency coordination (e.g., the Water
Recreation Agency Board) be assigned to CRMO. Other

XXII 1

.agencies with more clearly designated authority for such
programs as recreation resources planning, stormwater
drainage, erosion control and land use realulations are
assigned to those types of plans. One possible exception to
this recommended assignment of administrative responsibility
involves those plans assigned to the Zoning Administration
Office. In the event that such an Office is not yet created
by legislation, which is now under consideration by the
Legislature, CRMO should assume that proposed Office's
responsibilities until such time as the Zoning and Land Use
District Act is passed and operational.

TABLE XXI-1

FINANCIAL AND LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
FOR IMPLEMENTING PLANS UNDER THE
ADMINISTRATIVE PURVIEW OF CRMO

Plan
(Short Title Financial Legal
and Reference) Requirements Requirements

1) Shoreline Setbacks None required Promulgate the
(E) V-1 recommended
Regulations

2) Shoreline Fencing None required Promulgate the
(E) V-4 recommended
Reaulations
0

3) Diking and Landfilling None required Promulgate the
along Coastal Areas recommended
(E) VI-2 Regulations

4) Structures located on None required Promulgate the
Near-Shore and Beach recommended
Strand Ecological Zones Regulations
(E) VI-2

5) Mining along Coastal None required Promulgate the
Strand recommended
(E) VI-3 Regulations

6) Planning Criteria for None required None required
Evaluating Development
Impacts
(S) VIII.E

7) Water Recreation None required None required
Advisory Board
(3) IX.B.5

XXII - 2

B. ZONING ADMINISTRATION OFFICE

r4 a t n e a s p, r s P - s e d9 3 3J lb Y t1-. i-,
7he Z---- ng @d.@---
CNMI* Zoning and Land Use Districts Act as the agency to
administer the Commonwealth's zoning and land use districts
program. Several of the PLAN's recommendations are direct
adjuncts to that program and, therefore, should be within
the administrative purview of that Office for
implementation. Those plans are extrapolated in Table
XXII - 2.

It should be noted that the proposed organizational and
annual operating budget ($150,000) for the office was
previously recommended by the Government as part of its
zoning and land use districting program. That operational
budget is not included as part to this PLAN's implementation
requirements.

C. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS

As the Governments' primary contracting and infrastructure
maintenance agency, Public Works has a major responsibility
for this PLAN's design, construction and maintenance
recommendations. Of course., Public Works must rely on the
expertise of other agencies, especially CRMO, Natural
Resources and the Division.of Environmental Quality in
making the final determination for planning data analysis,
scopes of work, and construction alternatives for Many of
these projects.

The Public Works PLAN implementation responsibilities are
presented in Table XXII-3-

XXII 3

TABLE XXII-2

FINANCIAL AND LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
FOR IMPLEMENTING PLANS UNDER THE
ADMINISTRATIVE PURVIEW OF THE
ZONING ADMINISTRATION OFFICE

Plan
(Short Title Financial Legal
and Reference) Requirements Requirements

1) Zones and Land Use None required Enactment of
Districts Act of CNMI (see section B, the proposed
(S) IV.B this chapter) Act

2) Amendment to Section None required Public Law to
of Zones and Land amend Act
Use Districts Act
(S) IV.B.1

3) Expansion of Village None required Public Law to
Zone, San Antonio- amend Act
Zones and Land Use
Districts Act
(S) IV.B.2

4) Paupau Resort Zone None required Public Law to
in Northern Saipan- amend Act
Zones and Land Use
Districts Act
(S) IV.B.3

5) Property Setbacks, See item #8, Promulgate the
Structure Heights below recommended
and Densities Re-ulations
(T) V-1

6) Lot Coverage for See item #8, Promulgate the
Commercial and below recommended
Resort Zones Regulations
(E) V-2

7) Setback and Height See item #8, Promulgate the
Regulations for below recommended
Commercial and Regulations
Resort Zones
(E) V-3

8) Landscaping $2,000 for staff None required
Guidelines expenses and
printing costs

XXII - 4

TABLE XXII - 3

FlNkiiCl.,iL kiiD 1@EGAL REQUIREMENTS
FOR IMPLEMENTING PLANS UNDER
THE ADMINISTRATIVE PURVIEW OF
PUBLIC WORKS

Plan
(Short Title Financial Legal
and Reference) Requirements Requirements

1) Beach and Shoreline $1,600,000 for CIP
Restoration Plan design and Appropriation
(S) VI.E construction

2) Shoreline Water $85,000 for Executive
Facilities consultant Branch
Planning services Operating
(T) VII.B.1 Budget
Appropriation

Shoreline Wastewater $40,000 for Executive
Facilities Planning consultant Branch
(S) VII.C.1 services Operating
Budget
Appropriation

4) Storm Drainage Design $60,000 for Executive
Criteria Manual consultant Branch
(S) VII.D.1 services Operating
Budget
Appropriation

5) Hazards Removal Plan $100,000 for Executive
(S) X.B contractual Branch
services Operating
Budget
Appropriation

6) Improvements for See item #8, CIP
Village Parks and below, plus Appropriation
Playgrounds $16,800 for
(T) XIII-2 construction

7) Improvements for See item #8 CIP
Beach Parks - Natural below, plus Appropriation
(T) XIII-4 $7,800 for
construction

XXII - 5

8) Improvements for $10,000 for CIP
Beach Parks-Developed design of Appropriation
(T) Xiii-5) improvements
for items #6, #7
and #8, plus
$66,000 for
construction

9) Afetna Beach Park $10,000 for CIP
Improvements design, plus Appropriation
(S) XIV.B $70,000 for
construction

10) Bicycle Route $25,000 for CIP
(E) XV-7 preliminary Appropriation
engineering

11) Recreation Facilities To be determined Executive
and Maintenance by Public Works Branch
Schedule Operating
(T) XVI-1 Budget
Appropriation

D. DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

The Department of Natural Resources has prime respo-nsibility
for urging the enactment of the proposed Act to protects
habitats for rare, threatened and endangered species within
the Saipan Lagoon project area and for implementing a
program for marine nuisance abatement.

The plans are highlighted in Table XXII-4.

E. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

This Department's responsibilities accrue from the program
authority of its Division of Environmental Quality (DEQ).
Many of DEQ's programs already affect the Lagoon; however,
only two plans have been recommended for DEQ to improve the
management of the Lagoon uses. They are support for the
recently developed Groundwater Management Task Force and the
preparation of technical manual to guide design and
construction solutions for complying with Saipan's soil
erosion and sedimentation control regulations.

DEQ also has a secondary role in the implementation of the
SAIPAN LAGOON USE MANAGEMENT PLAN. As the Government's
watchdog over the quality of the Commonwealth's marine
waters, fresh waters and terrestrial resources, DEQ must be
included as an official advisor to vi.-tually every

XXII - 6

recommendation of this PLAN which impacts on the
environment.

The primary PLAN implementation responsibilities of DEQ are
presented in Table XXII-5.

F. DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION

By virtue of the Lagoon's many recreation resources, this
Department has administrative authority over water
recreational areas, as highlighted in Table XXII-6.

TABLE XXII - 4

FINANCIAL AND LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
FOR IMPLEMENTING PLANS UNDER
THE ADMINISTRATIVE PURVIEW OF
THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

Plan
(Short Title Financial Legal
Reference) Requirements Requirements

1) Marine Nuisance $4,000 for Executive
Abatement Plan staff, materials Branch
(S) X.D and equipment Operating
Budget
Appropriation

2) Important Habitats None re'quired Enactment of
Protection Act the proposed
(E) XIX-1 Act

3) Important Habitats None required None required
Management Plan
(S) XXI.B

XXII 7

TABLE XXII 5
FINANCIAL AND LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
FOR IMPLEMENTING PLANS UNDER
THE ADMINISTRATIVE PURVIEW OF
THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES, DIVISION OF
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

Plan
(Short Title Financial Legal
and Reference) Requirements Requirements

1) Groundwater Management None required None required
Task Force
(S) VII.B.2

2) Soil Erosion and $15,000 for Executive
Sedimentation Control consultant Branch
Technical Manual services Operating
(S) XIX.B Budget
TABLE XXII - 6 Appropriation
FINANCIAL AND LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
FOR IMPLEMENTING PLANS UNDER THE
ADMINISTRATIVE PURVIEW OF
PARKS AND RECREATION

Plan
(Short Title Financial Legal
and Reference Requirements Requirements

1) Water Safety $6,000 for Executive
Information producing Branch
Program materials Operating
(S) IX.C Budget
Appropriation

2) Recreation Use $8,750 for Executive
Zones for Saipan printing public Branch
Lagoon education materials Operating
(S) IX.B and erecting signs Budget
Appropriation

3) Saipan Outdoor $50,000 for Executive
Recreation Plan consultant Branch
(S) IX.B services Operating
Budget
Appropriation

XXII - 8

CHAPTER XXIII - IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF SAIPAN LAGOON USE
MANAGEMENT PLAN

The recommendations of every proposed plan should be
evaluated in order to assess the positive and negative
impacts that can be anticipated. Obviously, the positive
impacts must be found to outweigh the negative, or else the
plan fails to advance the likelihood of resolving those
conflicts and problems that it was to address.

The inherent methodology for formulating this SAIPAN LAGOON
USE MANAGEMENT PLAN was designed to assure that it would
produce predominatly positive impacts. By convening
SALAPAT representatives of the public agencies and private
organizations who have resource protection and economic
development responsibilities for the PLAN area, the thrust
of this master planning was directed towards identifying
problems and recommending improvement plans which promote
positive changes for all concerned.

While it is impossible to predict, in detail, all of the
impacts that may occur from this PLAN, the general
ramifications can be isolated. On the negative side, there
are basically two: slightly increased costs of public and
private development as a-result of mandatory compliance to
certain new design, pre-construction and construction
regulations which protect the Lagoon environment; and
reasonable, but nonetheless unprecedented, restrictions on
some uses of private properties.

More specifically, increased development costs are to be
expected when plans for development along the coastline are
challenged by regulations which set limits on construction
activities and require additional steps of review and
approval before permits are issued. Such procedures are
generally decried as "red tape" which accomplish nothing but
more headaches and unnecessary costs for developers. While
the regulations, etc. proposed by this PLAN are deemed
reasonable and requisite to protecting that which makes the
Saipan Lagoon one of the Commonwealth's most treasured
resources, the Government must always be on the watch for
signs which may indicate that its protectiveness is too
restrictive and, consequently, self-defeating in the end.

The loss of some private property rights as a result of
land-use zoning is an inevitable result of increased
development pressures of an urbanizing community. This
impact is unusually harsh to those traditional and community
property rights which have existed for generations on
Saipan. In the final analysis, however, when a government
is expected to provide for the health and safety of its
residents, some means of organizing the various land uses

XXIII - 1

3 6668 14103 5859
becomes necessary in order to achieve a reasonable scale of
economy and efficiency.

Because this PLAN proposes strict controls over development
within the Lagoon and along its shoreline in addition to
supporting the zoning and land use districting legislation
now under consideration by the Government, it is reasonable
to anticipate that both increased development costs as well.
as some restriction of traditional property rights will
result.

On the positive side of anticipated impacts, this PLAN will
create three primary benefits. First, the PLAN serves to
enhance tourism as the Commonwealth's keystone to economic
progress. By providing for tourist-oriented recreation
opportunities within the lagoon waters and along the beach,
tourist satisfaction is fostered. By providing for
additional hotel development opportunities and supporting
infrastructure plans, positive growth for the tourism
industry is accomodated for the future.
Second, the Lagoon's natural resources are given additional
protection for enjoyment by future generations. The
proposed programs, regulations and laws for protecting
marine water quality, beach sand, and critical habitats for
rare, threatened and endangered species, collectively insure
these resources against the inevitable onslaught of
development pressures. Because it is hot too late to
preserve much of the Lagoon's pristine quality, today's
children will be able to pass along ...this environmental
legacy to their progeny.

Third, more public recreation opportunities are provided for
Saipan residents. Parks, playgrounds and water recreation
sports are enjoyed by the whole of Saipan's population; and
the PLAN'S recommendations would multipy the existing
resource's by severalfold. The Lagoon is meant for the
people of Saipan: beach parks, fishing, swimming and
boating are indigenous activities and amply provided for by
this PLAN.

XXIII 2