Nature trail project eyed for Lao Lao Bay

A project of the late mayor Donald Flores to create a nature trail in Lao Lao Bay is getting a much needed boost, with Mayor David M. Apatang himself leading the charge to make the project a reality.

The project, called “Sabanan Lao Lao Nature Trail,” will be located at the Lao Lao Bay area, where the old Sugar King railroad tracks once were. The area is near the Kagman Juvenile Detention center leading toward San Vicente.

However, the trail will not follow the full railroad track around the island, but to an area of Lao Lao Bay as a means to promote ecotourism in that part of the island.

Henry Hofschneider, special assistant for the Saipan Mayor’s Office, said that it was Flores’ vision to open up a foot trail for residents to actually see the sugar cane railroad tracks.

Hofschneider said this will be a great opportunity for schools, residents, and visitors to enjoy nature. Neither bikes nor cars will be allowed in the area.

“The initial plan is to put a signage that will show the history of the railroad tracks, including signage for the trees and birds that will be seen during the walk. People can enjoy nature,” he said.

He said the Bureau of Environmental and Coastal Quality has hired a firm to conduct a survey based on the needed assessment required by the agency. BECQ paid for the survey.

“The survey is already done along with the footprint of the nature trail. Now we will get guidance from all the permitting regulatory agencies. This will be beneficial for visitors and locals alike. The area has a bamboo grove while strolling on the railroad area and people can enjoy the sight of it as well,” he said.

Hofschneider assured that this is a low-cost project and that if there were any private lands along the trail, they intend to talk with the landowners and hopefully come to an agreement.

He noted that further into the rocky area of the trail, they are proposing to make a trail leading to an old Japanese concrete platform that overlooks the whole Lao Lao Bay.

“Not only will people enjoy nature’s tranquility but see the beautiful view along the trail. So right now we still need guidance from BECQ for this part of the project and find a way to minimize foot traffic on the platform area, because they have a project they are doing in this area,” he said.