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Rota to boost agriculture, fishing
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Posted on May 28 2020
Rota farmers are looking to boost their agriculture and assist local fishermen and farmers on island through a new non-profit group called Rota Island Specialty Crop Association or RISCA.
The group was appropriated $100,000, through Rota Local Law 21-2, introduced by Sen. Paul A. Manglona (Ind-Rota), and signed into law last February. Finance Secretary David DLG Atalig informed the senator of the complete transfer of the full funds in a letter last May 14.
“We appreciate [the Department of Finance’s] assistance in setting up a special local account for this appropriation so that [these] funds can be utilized immediately for RISCA’s fishing and agricultural programs. Now, more than ever, we should promote our local agriculture and fishing industry,” said Manglona.
The expenditure authority for RISCA is its current president, Jude Arriola.
“The COVID-19 crisis has brought renewed attention to not only the critical importance of food production but also to the economic system of our small island,” Manglona said.
The senator reached out to Division of Agriculture director Jack Ogumoro last Tuesday to request for assistance for the new non-profit, in particular to share his experience as well as the division’s programs that would benefit Rota’s farmers and fishers.
“I understand that your office has been the recipient of Specialty Crop Block Grant from [the U.S. Department of Agriculture] over the past several years and have been very successful in enhancing and promoting specialty crops (fruits, vegetable, tree nuts, etc.) through your division’s education and outreach programs on Saipan,” said Manglona’s letter to Ogumoro. “We hope you can share your experience and agricultural programs with the members of RISCA. I am sure we all agree that now, more than ever, we should promote our local agriculture industry.” he added.
Manglona expressed appreciation to the officers and members of RISCA, stressing that aside from ensuring food sustainability, agriculture and fishing activities also provide job opportunities.
