Amended Managaha bill offered in House

Following changes to an earlier proposal, the House of Representatives has set into motion again the plan to declare Managaha Island and its surrounding waters a marine conservation area in order to limit activities there and safeguard its resources.

House Bill 12-162 or the Managaha Marine Conservation Act is similar to the legislation vetoed last February by Gov. Pedro P. Tenorio, although this time amendments have been made to address his concerns.

Under the measure offered by original proponent Rep. Heinz S. Hofschneider, provisions concerning duties of a superintendent as well as funding sourced from Managaha landing fees were deleted as part of the compromise agreement with the administration.

The 11th Legislature approved the proposal last year following months of committee review, but Mr. Tenorio urged lawmakers to refine that bill before he could sign it into law.

The Senate immediately overrode his veto, but the House agreed not to, opting instead to draft a new bill incorporating the governor’s recommendations.

According to a report prepared by the House Committee on Natural Resources endorsing Mr. Hofschneider’s proposal, HB 12-162 is a good start towards establishing a comprehensive reef management program in the Commonwealth as the island government must take strong measures to protect our beaches, reefs and open waters.

“This measure respects the historical cultural tradition, while protecting Managaha Island from intrusive and disruptive activities such as jet ski operation, commercial fishing and unregulated access,” the report said. “This measure will ensure that Managaha is protected from exploitation and preserved for future generations to enjoy.”

A popular tourist site, the islet has come under close scrutiny on the heels of concerns over possible erosion and damage to its marine resources due to influx of visitors who flock to its pristine beach to swim and snorkel as well as ride in such watercraft as banana boat.

Millions of dollars in revenues are generated each year from these tourism activities as more than 350,000 visit the island annually for a day trip that can cost around $60.

While the proposal will seek regulations to control fishing and harvesting of marine life as well as transportation, it will not require visitors to obtain permit from responsible agencies to swim and snorkel around the island. Managaha will remain open for recreational activities subject to restrictions to be imposed by authorities.

The Department of Lands and Natural Resources, through the Marine Conservation Section to be set up, shall have the main responsibility over the protected area by promulgating rules and regulations. A violation will result to a fine of between $500 to $10,000 and seizure of equipment and items by the department.

The bill also will seek partnership with the Board of Education and private schools to draw up a curriculum or instruction that will require students to hold classes in Managaha. Funding for operations of the conservation office will be appropriated annually by the Legislature.

The House committee vowed to endorse other measures aimed at safeguarding the rapidly depleting marine resources in the Commonwealth.