Let’s focus on opportunities, benefits of monument

In his 10 letters to the editor and more than 10,000 words he has had published over the past five months, Mr. John Gourley has consistently mischaracterized the statements and role of the Pew Environment Group regarding the proposed marine national monument in the waters around the CNMI’s northernmost islands. We understand that he has a different point of view but, regrettably, Mr. Gourley’s approach has been to attack the messenger.

The Pew Environment Group has been very clear from the beginning that we support this proposed marine monument not only because the Mariana Trench is home to a diverse array of ocean wildlife and distinct habitats of global significance, but also because CNMI residents will directly benefit from and participate in its creation, management and enforcement.

In the last week alone, more than 180 stories have appeared in U.S. and international press outlets talking favorably about the Mariana Islands. That is exactly the kind of favorable global press that a monument declaration would create. In fact, a recent economic analysis of the proposed marine monument by University of Guam economics professor Dr. Tom Iverson estimated that creating a no-take marine reserve in the waters surrounding the northernmost islands would produce up to 400 new jobs. Moreover, according to his analysis, the monument would also annually generate $10 million in new spending and $5 million in new tax revenue.

Since March, the Pew Environment Group has sponsored numerous forums to provide information about the monument proposal. Recently, we have had at least three public meetings weekly to educate the public about the issues. We have met with and listened to hundreds of residents who support creating a marine monument around the Mariana Trench.

We continue to believe the majority of the islands’ residents will support the monument when they learn the facts. We welcome a healthy discussion of this issue, but the relentless focus by Mr. Gourley on issues having nothing to do with the potential benefit to the CNMI is unhelpful and unproductive.

The process to assess the potential of a monument has just begun. The U.S. government has put a proposal on the table and will now undertake a review of the various sites, which includes time for public input so CNMI political leaders and residents have an opportunity to express their views.

We have a rare opportunity to permanently protect these ocean waters in a way that will benefit the CNMI’s unique marine environment, promote tourism, enhance research and education, and boost the local economy now and for generations to come.

Let’s focus on the opportunities and benefits such a monument might bring. Let’s make that the discussion.