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CRM OKs Splash Island relocation to Smiling Cove
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Posted on Jan 03 2001
The Coastal Resources Management Office has approved the application of Sea Ventures Island President Anthony Pellegrino to relocate Splash Island in the vicinity of Smiling Cove Marina and Micro Beach.
However, CRM Acting Director Peter Barlas said the permission to proceed with the relocation is still pending until certain conditions have been met by the company.
CRM approved the planned relocation on the condition that Splash Island will be positioned to avoid interference with fishing activities in the vicinity of Smiling Cove Marina and Micro Beach Point.
The agency also ordered that buoys be placed around any boating activities associated with the barge to avoid potential accidents between barge users and fishers or boaters entering or leaving the Smiling Cove Marina.
Sea Ventures officially opened Splash Island, a water sports activity in the Saipan Lagoon near Managaha Island, outside the proposed marine conservation area on July 1, 2000.
Mr. Pellegrino requested a change of site t a more protected area as the floating platform was being damaged by the constant wave in the central part of the lagoon.
In an effort to stay in the business at the present location, several attempts were made to reinforce the floating platform to withstand the sea conditions, according to Mr. Pellegrino. But after a short period of time, Mr. Pellegrino said it became inevitable that a more secure location was needed for the facility.
The move to relocate Splash Island was met with strong opposition by the Windsurfing Association because it will interfere with existing recreational uses which include fishing, kayaking, boating, swimming and windsurfing.
The group also raised potential public health concerns relating to waste and fuel by-products generated and resulting from the Splash Island facility in an already fragile environmental area wherein the beaches are regularly closed for public health and safety concerns. (Lindablue F. Romero)
