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1, kh Coastal Zone Information Center Tirst Truk Marine 1 7" Resources 4"L. Y, GC 1023.98 .T78 Uh, T7 1970 0 CIRS.M.anis *;)1partmoot 9 optwqnt Saipan, M"i dna Island's R*sourcos and D*v*l 41W TRUST TERRITORY OF THE PACIFIC ISLANDS FIRST TRUK MARINE RESOURCES CONFERENCE COASTAL ZONE INFORMATION CENTER Property of CSC Library Convened at: Truk District Legislature Building April 27 - May 1, 1970 US DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NOAA COASTAL SERVICES CENTER 2234 SOUTH HOBSON AVENUE CHARLESTON , SC 29405-2413 GC 1023.98.T78T7 1970 6083650 FEB 19 1997 PRO, rtr lj@ 60 r lz@ TABLE OF CONTENTS Foreword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I List of Participants and Observers . . . . . . . . 2 Program Outline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Work of the Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Opening Remarks .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Van Camp Fisheries Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Fisheries Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Offshore Fisheries Training . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . 17 Live Bait Resources of Truk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . zo Marine Resources Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . zz Open Port Concession . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Conservation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Salvage Concession . @ .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Outer Island Fishery Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Support Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Navigationa 1 Aids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Conference Conclusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Concluding Remarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Resolution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Working Group Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 FOREWORD The First Truk Marine Resources Conference was convened in Truk at the District Legislature Building April 27 through May 1, 1970. The object of this Conference was to provide a forum whereby the local fishermen and people in Truk would be given the opportunity to express to the Division of Marine Resources their ideas on proper programs for the development of fishing resources in the Truk District. Topics treated included offshore fisheries development, inshore fisher- ies development, conservation, recreational fisheries and provisioning stations. After a plenary session onApril 27, the Conference was divided into work- ing groups. These working groups met through the week and prepared reports and recommendations. On the last two days of the Conference, plenary sessions were againheld and these reports and recommendations were reviewed. The resulting report, herein presented, thus represents a consensus arrived at among the leaders of Truk, government leaders, and Trukese fishermen concerning the course that the future development of the mar- ine resources of Truk should follow. LIST OF PARTICIPANTS AND OBSERVERS Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands Wyman X. Zachary Peter T. Wilson Director, Resources & Development Chief, Marine Resources Saipan, Mariana Islands 96950 Koror, Palau Western Caroline Islands 96940 Juan A. Sablan Cliff Anable District Administrator Public Works Officer Truk District Administration Moen, Truk Truk District Administration Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Moen, Truk Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Mitaro Danis Tawn Paul Deputy District Administrator Conservation Officer Truk District Administration Truk District Administration Moen, Truk Moen, Truk Eastern Caroline Islands 56942 Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Charles M. Sicard Sinipas Andrew District Economic Development Ofcr. Assistant Conservation Officer Truk District Administration Truk District Administration Moen, Truk Moen, Truk Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Milton McDonald Ronald Powell Starfish Control Specialist Fisheries Specialist Saipan, Mariana Islands 96950 Truk District Administration Moen, Truk Ralph Morgan Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 MDTA Coordinator Saipan, Mariana Islands 96950 Trukese Participants Hermes Katsura, Speaker Raymond Setik, Representative Truk District Legislature Congress of Micronesia Moen, Truk Moen, Truk Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Andon Amaraich, Senator Sasauo Haruo, Representative Congress of Micronesia Congress of Micronesia Moen, Truk Moen, Truk Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Endy Dols, Representative Camillo Noket, Advisor Congress of Micronesia His Fishing Cooperative Moen, Truk Moen, Truk Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Eastern Caroline Islands 96542 Masauo Nakayama, Representative Enis Nedelec, Legislator Congress of Micronesia Fefan, Truk Moen, Truk Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Kimiuo Aisek, Fisherman Hans Williander, Representative Dublon, Truk Congress of Micronesia Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Moen, Truk Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Massuo Shirai, Fisherman Moen, Truk Aichi Sos, President Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Truk Fishing Development, Inc. Moen, Truk Father Fogelsanger, S.J., Advisor Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Piis Fishing Cooperative Truk, Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Susumu Aizawa Susumu Store Restituto Lomongo, Manager Moen, Truk His Fishing Cooperative Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Truk, Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Chief Riken Frank Nifon, Assistant Mayor Chief of Pata Moen Municipality, Truk Pata, Truk Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Masataki Mori Rokuro Mori, Fisherman Bayview Restaurant Moen, Truk Moen, Truk Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Observers Nory L. Oneitam Rev. Peter Ermal Truk Community Action Agency Missionary Moen, Truk Tol, Truk Eastern Caroline islands 96942 Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Sam MacPheters Fermin Likiche Director, Peace Corps Public Information Officer Moen, Truk Moen, Truk Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 Eastern Caroline Islands 96942 -3- PROGRAM OUTLINE 1. INVOCATION Reverend Jack Fogelsanger, S. J. Z. OPENING STATEMENTS a. Juan A. Sablan, District Administrator, Truk b. Hermes KatBUra, Speaker, Truk District Legislature C. Wyman X. Zachary, Director of Resources & Development 3. WORKING GROUP ASSIGNMENTS 4. MARINE RESOURCES PROGRAM REVIEW Organization, Objectives. On-Going Programs Peter.T. Wilson, Chief, Marine Resources Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands 5. TRUK INSHORE FISHERIES ProgramReview, Objectives, Needs, Accomplishments, Hindering Factors Ronald Powell, Fisheries Methods & Equipment Specialist Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands 6. OFFSHORE FISHERIES DEVELOPMENT - DISCUSSION a. Commercial skipjack fisheries t.raining programs in Palau and Hawaii and methods by whic h Trukese training canbe improved. b. Review of recommendations made by Second Marine Resources Conference as they pertain to Truk. C. Live bait resources of the Truk District. d. Commercial offshore fishing and processing sites includingthe need for docks, water, power, housing, transportation, com- munications, etc. e. Ownership, management and operation of business ventures connected withthe marine resources of the Truk District includ- ing manufacture of katsuobushi, canning, etc. .4- f. Provisioning Stations for Japanese Fishing Vessels as provided for by the agreement between the United States and Japan con- cerning the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. 0 7. INSHORE FISHERIES DEVELOPMENT - DISCUSSION a. Essential dockside fishing facilities including ice, cold storage, engine and boat repairs, marketing, management, etc. b. Conservation and Recreation C. Recreational resources including wreck diving, sport fishing, shell collecting, snorkling, etc. as pertains to the develop- ment of the tourist industry. d. Salvage rights e vessels in Truk Lagoon as provided for. in United States and Japan Agreement. e. Outer.Islands fisheries development. 8. WORKING GROUP SESSIONS 9. CONFERENCE REVIEW OF RECOMMENDATIONS 10. CLOSING STATEMENT S -5- 7) The Truk Marine Resources Program Office and new ice, and cold storage plant should be erected in the government dockside areabetween Mobil Oil's plant and the main road by the govern- ment LCU. The proposed new slipways should be located in the same general area. 8) The live bait resources of the Truk Lagoon should be identified and surveyed in order to determine their relative abundance, their identification and their distribution. 9) Van Camp Seafood Company inKoror should modify their present operations in Koror to provide better fisheries training and equal treatment for Micronesians fishing on their boats. 10) Facilities for training Trukese in offshore live-bait skipjack fishing techniques should be provided by the Marine Resources Division in Truk. 11) A sewerage treatment plant capable of eliminating the pollution problems of Truk's District Center should be -built as soon as possible. -7- OPENING REMARKS BY DISTRICT ADMINISTRATOR JUANA. SABLAN It is a real pleasure to welcome all of you to this very important confer- ence on the development of the marine resources of Truk District, and to those of you who are not from Truk, a special welcome to yon and I hope you will enjoy your short stay in our district. Before I go on any further, let me assure you that the District Govern- ment is fully committed toprovide you with every assistance necessary within our resources tomake this Conference a success and your stay a memorable one. I do not need to elaborate, for you also are cognizant of. the important role our rich marine resources ' once fully developed, can play in the economic development of Truk District and of the rest of Micronesia. Our past economic history has proven this to be true. Many of you recall the pre-war pie-riod during which Truk was the center for large-scale commercial fishing operations in Micronesia. A fleet of skipjack fishing vessels operated out of Dublon and landed as much as 15 mil 'lionpounds of katsuo or skipjack tuna a year. This fish was proc- essed into katsuobushi and exported to Japan, thus providing Truk with one of its chief sources of income. Many of you also remember the namako or sea-cucumber fishery, as over a million pounds were exported from Truk to Japan in a year's time. Long line fishing boats were also based here, and large quantities of manguro or yellowfin tuna 'Were landed here and served in the various restaurants* and other businesses. Reef fish, clams and crabs we're brought in and sold daily; regulations pertaining to illegal fishing were strictly enforced and people took forgranted the rich harvestof the reefs, lagoons and oceans. Today, the former Nanko Fisheries site in Dublon is deserted. The bombed out reefer plant whichwas once filled with fish now stands as a monument to the fisheries of yesteryear. The once-productive katsuo- bushi plants are long gone and only their memory remains. The dry docks which serviced the many ships that operated in this area were filled with scrap at the end of the war and later taken away by scrap dealers forcing us to lift our small boats out of the water and to send our larger ships to foreign ports for drydocking. I could go on and on; however, I do not wish to look behind any longer. I want to look ahead to the days when we will be drydocking our own boats, canning our own fish, operating our own fishing boats, freezing our own fish, and making our own way in this highly competitive 20th Century. However, to do this will not be easy. No one is going to be able to wave a magic stick and have freezer plants, dry docks, fish plants and so on; they are going to have to be earned. They are going to have to be earned by every one of us here today. And that is why we are here. To work together, to bring forth all of our hopes, desires, thoughts and experience so that our people and our government can work closely together to bring forth the type of economy based not solely on copra and tourism, but also on the marine resources of the islands that we desire. However, to do this, to attain thesegoals, itis absolutely essential thatwe think together, pull together, and work together to get where we want to go. I would like to repeat that this won't be easy. There will be hard times, and much hard work required of all of us if we are to be successful. So the time to " tart is now. The longest journey is started by a simple step. Therefore, let us go forward together. The people of Truk, the government, our fishermen and businessmen -- let's work together to make this important conference a success, as from this meeting will come forth a plan which will guide us in our long journey to economic prosperity. Together we can do it. Kelisuo Chabut. -9- OPENING REMARKS BY SPEAKER HERMES KATSURA Mr. Chairman, participants and observers of this first Marine Resources Conference in Truk .... It gives me a great pleasure and honor to welcome all of you partici- pants as well as observers of this important first Marine Resources Conference in Truk District. I would also like to give special welcome to Mr. Zachary, our Director for Resources and Development, Mr. Peter Wilson, our Chief, Division of Marine Resources, and their staff members. I do not wish to give a long talk today exce pt to make a few remarks on three major points. I intend to use these three points as our important facts which should be kept in our minds throughout the entire Conference. The firstpoint is the greatnatural resources of the sea. Our rich marine resources of Truk have not been fully utilized for our ownbenefit. Dur- ing the Japanese period, there were unquestionably excellent catches of skipjack tuna as shownby past record. But this was for Japan's benefit. Because of the good record of catching tuna, Japanese fishing vessels are st ill taking greatadvantage of our surr ounding waters. This is also for Japan's benefit. Today, Van Camp Sea Food Company is operating a meaningful offshore tuna fishery in Palau. It trains some Micronesians in this important development of Micronesian fisheries. Unfortunately, this fishing venture is not for Micronesian benefit. This leads to my second, point of fishery development must be ours (Micronesians) and.for Micronesia's benefit. For many years we have planned many plans. We have made surveys and researches of our water resources.' We have sent Micronesians into fishery training. Here in Truk we have skilled and capable fishermen who have not gone into fish- ing ventures due to lack of loan funds. It is time for us to show some action in developing.our marine resources. It is time for us to run our own show. It is time for us to control our fishing business. We must not seek outside investment to start our economy unles s we have to. Let us begin with what we can within our limitation. Small-scale fishing projects are better than nothing. Outside support must come in if nec- essary, with some control. But first we must initiate our own interest by Micronesians and for Micronesians or by Trukese and for Trukese. _10- My las It point is withunited effort and strength we canbegin some actions. By united effort and strength, development of fisheries can be made. This will require the full cooperation of the Administration, Legislature, local business, Peace Corps, Truk Community Action Agency of OEO and our religious groups. Our Economic Development Loan Fund can be first made available before seeking foreign investments for our fish- eries programs. Together with our limited sources of funds and skilled personnel, we can begin some actions. We cannot afford to wait for another five years. We have patiently waited for twenty-three years. The time is jjghLR2@y. The place is right here in Truk. In closing, I have every reasonto believe that this first Marine Resources Conference in Truk will bring us some highly recommended training projects and real fishery programs which will receive top-level con- sideration by this new Administration. I am sure all of us will be looking forward to the days when our fishing economy will be a successful one for our people of Truk. Thank you. OPENING REMARKS BY WYMAN X. ZACHARY DIRECTOR OF RESOURCES AND DEVELOPMENT Mr. Chairman, members of Congress of Micr onesia, members of the Truk District Legislature, distinguished visitors. I would like to extend my personal thanks to those of you who have made the effort to set up this Marine Resources Conference in Truk. It is an important "first"' for Truk and should and will be successful as a long step in getting an action program underway. High Commissioner Johnston has asked me to convey to you his best wishes for a fruitful session and to tellyouthat he regrets that his schedule does not permit himto attend. My main concern is that all of us assembled here shall, in the next five days, determine what should be done to develop the marine resources for Truk and hopefullyto seta successful pattern for the other districts. It should be made very clear that neither I nor any member of my staff can promise that all recommendations of this body can be accomplished, but we can and we do promise that we will try harder than has ever been done before. It must be understood that I don't know all the answers to the financing problems which will undoubtedly arise. I know very little about budgets, programs, reprogramming, etc. . but I do know that with a goal established, there should be a way to get there. We promise to try. The objective of this Conference is to determine the steps, in order of priority, necessaryto re-establish fishing as aprimary means of devel- oping the natural resources of the Trust Territory and to strengthen the economy of specific *areas. I agree with your District Administrator and the Speaker that much should be done and much can be done and that hollow promises are not enough. Under this Administration,, it is a new ball game and from the highest levels, including Secretary Hickel, Assistant Secretary Loesch and High Commissioner Johnston, we have been directed to do all possible to get the job done. President Nixonhas said "Let's go forward together". Now is the time and let's get started. Thank you. VAN CAMP FISHERIES TRAINING The Conference concludes that training in Van Camp, Palau District, must be improved. In order to establish improved training programs relating to the development of Micronesian Marine Resources, the Trust Territory Government has the obligation and responsibility to se@@e that Micronesian fishing trainees are giventhe same opportunities and-rights as the Okinawan fishermen. The following complaints have been expr essed by Trukese trainees who have been to Van Camp in Palau: 1. In the minds of Trukese trainees, it has not been made clear whether they are serving in the status of trainee or employee. The trainees believe they are being used to a great extent as are employees. 2. Micronesian trainees are not provided with round trip fare to Koror while the Okinawans are. 3. Micronesians are not provided with monthly guarantees: while Okinawans are.*. Micronesians receive income based 'on the catch; whenthe weather is poor and whenthe boat is in dry dock, they receive nothing. 4. The housing situation for Micronesians is unsanitary; the food they eat is not the customary diet while the food of the Okinawan fishe tmen is. 5. Those trainees selected for advanced training in Hawaii find their training and experience at Van Camp meaningless and worthless as they are not taught hook making or other basic skills. 6. Micronesians are not provi ded translated versions of agree- ments they are asked to sign. The Micronesian trainee should fully understand all documents he signs before signing. Further- more, the trainee must fully understand the conditions of his training before he is sent to Palau. Recommendations 1. The Conference believes the Trust Territory Government should make it clear to Micronesians that employment is offered at Van Camp rather than training. 2. The trainees should be ask ed to set aside a certain percentage of their earnings into a trust fund, administered by the govern- ment, for the future investment in fishing enterprises in the district. 3. Trainees should be asked to agree thatupon completion of train- ing, they will return to their districts and work as fishermen. I 4. The Conference recommends that a general meeting be s 'et up between Micronesian trainees, Van Camp representativesP and Trust Territory representatives to improve and maintain, good relations. 5. The Conference recommends that all agreements between Van Camp and Micronesian trainees be translated into local vernac- ular and sent to the Districts for analysis and legal opinion. The Trust Territory Government should insure that Micronesians are adequately protected. 6. The Trust Territory Government and Van Camp should provide incentives to trainees to work as fishermen upon their return to the districts by establishing a revolving low-interest.. loan fund to finance fishing ventures. 7. Micronesian trainees who prove skillful and experienced after one or two years should be encouraged to replace Okinawan fishermen. 8. A Van Camp representative should be asked to travel occasion- ally to the districts before hiring Micronesians for the purpose of exchanging views and ideas ontrainingprograms, answering questions and providing information. Having the Trust Territory Go vernment speaking for Van Camp gives the people the impre s - Sion that the government is responsible for all the problems and complaints arising at Van Camp. 9. A more intensive effort should be made to select recognized fishermen for employment in Palau in order to insure their continuing in the fisheries field upon their return. 10. In conclusion, the Conference recommends that unless, Van Camp agrees to improve its activities according to the speci- fications laid down in the original contract, this Report and the recommendations. of Mr. Peter Wilson, as stated in various letters, the Trust Territory Government refuse to renew the contract and take steps to move Van Camp out of Micronesia. _14- FISHERIES TRAINING The Conference noted the indispensable need to actively pursue training programs for Trukese fishermen in Truk. The Conference wishes to emphasize the importance of training in Trukese waters rather than send- ing trainees out of the district to Palau or Hawaii. The Conference feels that training programs in Truk would provide greater experience ' and knowledge of local conditions; the Conference further feels that "real fishermen!', those who in many cases are unwilling to leave families and familiar waters, would be attracted to a local program. The purpose of the training program would be to provide experien ce to Trukese in the use of commercial fishing gear for off-shore operations and to provide experience in the handling of fish for export. The objec- tive would be to bring economical methods of off- shore fishing to Truk. The Conference specifically endorses a program of training twelve Trukese over a two-year period. Although the number of direct bene- ficiaries will be limited, it is hoped that the indirect benefits of the program willbernore extensive asthetrainedmen returntotheir islands and spread their knowledge to interested relatives and friends. It is alsohoped thatupon the successful completion of training, arrangements will be made for fishermen to own and operate their own boats and thus contirlue their fishing. The training will be conducted by a highly experienced expert from the Fisheries Office in Truk. The trainees will have classroom instruction for. a two-week period to learn basic fishing principals. After the first two weeks,, the fishermen will become twelve crew members on a com- mercial type fishing vessel. The Training program will last two years, five days a week. The Fisheries Training Program will be administered by the existing Fishing Cooperative and the District Legislature. The manager, as a representative of the Fishing Co-op, will work closely with the Fisheries Development Office and the District Legislature on matters concerning policies, selection'of participants and budgeting. The Fishing Co-op willalso buy fish from theboat and use the reefer that has already been planned by the government. The Fishing Cooperative is willing to make several in-kind contributions to the program. In addition, portions of the catch sales will be utilized in the operation of the venture. Specific cost and operational estimates of the program will be submitted to the proper parties at a later time by the administering authority. The Conference wishes to add that training programs outside of Truk should continue to be utilized for the develop- ment of Trukese captains and engineers. Areas such as Hawaii, Palau and Japan must be explored in this regard. As a final matter, the Conference wishes to emphasize that in-shore fisheries training is not required in Truk. Trukese have acquired in- shore fishing skills over years of experience. Capital, however, in the form of loans for diesel engine boats, nets and small refrigerators should be directed to Truk immediately upon application. Only in this way will the in-shore resource everbe exploited for profit and domestic demand for reef fish satisfied. Recommendations 1. The Conference strongly recommends that the above-described program be endorsed in full by the Trust Territory Government. 2. The Conference further recommends that the Trust Territory Government, where possible, provide funds and support at such time asthe administering authority submits aconcrete request for financial assistance and the technical expertise of the Dis- trict Fisheries Office. 3. The Conference recommends that Mr. Ronald Powell take an active part in planning and operating the program in cool5era- tion with the administering authority. 4. The Conference recommends that loan applications be favorably considered for the purchase of diesel engine vessels and nets for the development of the inshore resource. -16- OFFSHORE FISHERIES TRAINING Micronesia consists of three million square miles of ocean. This shows its greatest natural resources are of the sea. Japan fishing records of the past show that abundant resources of fish, namely skipjack tuna, were caught during their occupation. Furthermore, the Japanese fish- ermen are still taking great numbers of fishfromthe waters surround- ing,our islands. Micronesia, being an underdeveloped area, badly needs proper technical direction, good fishing facilities and financial support. Some types of training in offshore fishing have been implemented in Van Camp Sea Food Co. in Palau and in Hawaii. These trainees have found some difficulties in adjusting to new lines and environment. Although some trainees have acquired a great deal of new fishing methods and experience in catching skipjack tuna, one important factor still remains unsolved. It takes money to set up fishing, facilities such as ice-making plant machine, refrigerator, dock site and others. It takes money to buy a fishing vessel. Our Trust Territory Economic Development Loan Fund has not yet given its full support in fishing loans. Without any loans, our fishermen can- not start utilizing our marine resources. Ther efore, while Trukese and Micronesians are desperately awaiting for some action in fishing development, let us conduct some training right here in Truk for the following reasons: 1. One way of improving and expanding Truk fishery is by setting up training here in Truk. 2. In setting up training in Truk, some facilities have to be erected and installed. These facilities will not be wasted after the training. They will be fully utilized by our fishermen. They will provide a stimulus to fishermen in commercial fishing. They will encourage more and more returning trainees to go into fishing business. 3. Trainees will be given the first opportunity to tackle problems which would be faced during training. These trainees will have confidence in themselves when they are on their own. 4. In local training, real fishermen can be selected to learn' new methods in offshore fishing. They will not have to leave their families. _17- 5. In Truk we have qualified Trukese fishermen who can be instruc- tors who know local and cultural problems and conditions. They will select the trainees who can become future fisherme n. 6. If suchtraining is successful, this would demonstrate the capa- bility of Trukese fishermen to go into real fishing business. For outside training like Hawaii, Van Camp and even Japan, emphasis should be on training Trukese captains and engineers. This will mini- mize the hiring of Okinawan and Japanese fishing captains and engineers. Also, the training of managers, bookkeepers, technicians and advisors will still be conducted outside of Micronesia for many years. For inshore training, we believe that Trukese fishermen can do without. It is just a matter of encouraging our young ones to go into fishing ven- tures. We have not been able to supply the demand of fish due to lack of ice-making plant and storage. Once these facilities are installed, diesel engine boats can be introduced. Of course, loans will be required to purchase boats, nets and even small refrigerators which can be installed on some off islands so that fish canbe sold right there or taken to Moen, the main market, if there is excess. Training in Van Camp, Palau District, needs to be improved. In order to establish improved training programs relating to the developing of Micronesian marine resources, the Trust Territory Government has an obligation and responsibility to see that Micronesian fishing trainees are given the same opportunity and rights as the Okinawans. The following complaints have been expressed by Trukese trainees who have been to Van Camp, Palau District: 1. Inthe minds of ourtrainees, it has not been clear whether they are in the status of trainees or employees. They are more likely treated as employees. 2. Micronesian trainees are not provided with round trip fare to Koror, while the Okinawans" are. Micronesians are not provided with monthly guarantees while Okinawans are. Micronesians receive income based on the catch they make. When the weather is bad and when their boats are in drydock, they receive nothing. 3. The housing situation is unsanitary. The food they eat is not their customary food, while the food for Okinawans is. 4. The trainees selected for advanced training in Hawaii find their training and experienceinVan Camp meaningless andworthless. 5. Micronesians are not provided with local language on papers of agreement they sign. They must first understand what they sign. They must fully understand the conditions of their train- ing before they are sent to Palau. 6. Because of these unfortunate situations, we see our trainees returning before completing their contracts. We recommend the following to improve the Van Camp training status: 1. Make it clear to Micronesians that employment is open at Van Camp rather than training. 2. A trainee should agree that a certain percent of his earnings be set aside in a trust fund for investment in a fishing venture in his district. 3. Trainees should agree that after training they must return to their districts and work as fishermen. 4. A general meeting between trainees, Van Camp representatives, and Trust Territory representatives should be required to improve and maintain good relations. _19- BAIT RESOURCES OF TRUK The Conference recognized that the pre-war fisheries of Truk had 6xten- sive live bait fishing grounds, and recently, Pata Municipality has demonstrated the availability of bait in that area. The former president of the Japanese fishing corporations in the Truk area, Harakamichi Yoshida, has also informed Trukese leaders that presently the Truk Lagoon contains three times the quantity of bait than during pre-war years. These facts have led this Conference to believe that the bait resources of the Lagoon are ready for exploitationby Trukese fishermen who have identified the chief bait species as being: Trukese Name Other Name 1. Senif Sardine 2. Tin 3. Tinipu Takabe 4. Tinipwer Nehu 5. Wienika. Sihra The Conference recognized the need for gathering more information on the bait fish of the Truk Lagoon and for having available the necessary boats and equipment, such as nets, which are required for catching the various species of live bait. The presence of Trukese fishermen trained in catching live bait was also discussed, as was the desirability of h aving an experienced Okinawan fisherman who fished the Truk Lagoon for live bait in pre-war years. The Conference also endorsed the recommenda- tions of the Second Trust Territory Marine Resources Conference which convened at the East West Center in Honolulu, Hawaii and called'for a survey of the live bait resources of the Truk Lagoon, preferably uinder the direction of a man with pre-war knowledge of the resource. The Conference recommends that: 1. The live bait resources of the Truk Lagoon be identified and urveyed in order to determine their relative abundance, their P'aroper identification, and their distribution. 2. The Marine Resources Division make available its inshore fish- ing vesselfor such a surveyand that itprovide suchbaitnetting as may be required to harvest the various bait species of the Truk Lagoon. _20- 3. The services of an Okinawan, live bait fisherman experienced in the pre-war bait fisheries of the Truk Lagoon be obtained to direct the live bait survey. 4. Trukese fishermen trained in Palau and Hawaii be utilized as fishermen in the course of this survey. 5. The unresolved problem of the ownership of bait areas in Truk needs in-depth study and solution in order to facilitate the devel- opment of the offshore tuna fishing potential. MARINE RESOURCES PROGRAMS The Conference rec ognizes that the sea is the greatest natural resource of the islands in Micronesia. This fact has been well documented by many fisheries experts. It is therefore not necessary to repeat such facts in this report, for to do so would just be another indictment of our failure to develop these basic resources over the past twenty years. The Conference strongly feels that we must not continue to neglect the devel- mentof this important resource if we are to make Micronesia increasingly dependent on its own resources rather than on the government payroll. The Conference feels that inasmuch as Micronesia consists almost entirely of ocean, it is only natural that emphasis be put on utilizing the potential of the marine area. The Conference is sadly aware that the marine resources of the Trust Territory are not being overlooked by other foreign fishing nations, as they find it profitable to fish well over a thousand miles from their homelands, and by so doing, take in excess of 30, 000 tons (60 million pounds) of skipjack annually and over 50, 000 -tons of yellowfin tuna annually. The First Truk Marine Resources Conference takes the view that the time for planning, experimentation and research has long gone and that this Conference shouldnow developprograms and targetdates for imple- mentation andaction that will provide a meaningful start in the develop- ment of both off shore and inshore fishing operations in the Truk District. Offshore and Inshore Fishing Operations The Conference feels that consistent with the policy of the Government of the Trust Territory and the desire of the people, the ownership of both inshore and offshore fishing operations should be in the hands of Micronesians withtechnical knowhow provided by outside experts under contra c t. However, the Conference recognizes that the acquisition of capital will continue to be a major problem in financing business ventures and for this reason, favors the encouragement of group ventures in order to raise the necessary funds. The Conference further feels that it should be made clear that group ownership of fishing operations should not pre- vent individuals from forming their ownfishing operationsand thatwhen- everpossible, government assistance, both technical and financial, should be made more readily available. _22- Source of Funds The Conference feels that the Trust Territory Government must re-evaluate its overall program emphasis in order to give the Marine Resources Division the same kind of priority given to other major departments, such as Education and Health Services, in the allocation of appropriated funds. The Conference is concerned over the lack of program priority giventhe marine resources programs and the Division of Economic Development and feels that they should be given much higher program priority. The Conference also feels that the District Legislature and the Congress of Micronesia should re-orient their thinking indirect- ing the use of the' appropriated, funds to a major development program of the marine resources. The Conference also feels that business organizations in the Truk District must be encouraged to take an active role in this development and that the various governmental agencies and private sector must work together to initiate a meaningful marine resources economy. The First Truk Marine Resources Conference recommends that: 1. The Trust Territory Government allocate greater program priority to the Marine Resources Division and budget funds according to the needs of the districts and their respective populations. 2. The Truk District Legislature be commended for its continued interest in developing the fisheries of the district as has been evidenced by the purchase of a $15,000.00 ice plant, andrequests that in appropriating its local revenues during the forthcoming session, the Legislature consider setting up a Marine Resources Development Loan Fund for the Truk District. 3. The Truk Delegationto the Congress of Micronesia be requested to 'Consider financial support for fishing operations as a priority in the allocation of the territorial revenues. 4. Business organizations and the private sector of the Truk district be encouraged to take active roles in the development of the rine resources of the area. Shoreside Facilities The Conference feels that the Marine Resources Division should be con- cerned with providing enough fish to meet local demands before thought -23- is given to establishing an export business. In planning the necessary dockside and processing facilities, the Conference feels that existing facilities should be improved and used as effectively as possible, and new facilities should bebuilt as soon as possible to meet existing prob- lems. In the meantime, long range planning for the development of major fishing industries should be carried on. The Conference is of the opinion that due to lack of water and power in areas outside of the government center, all shoreside facilities to be erected within the next few years should be on Moen and close to' the govermnent center. The Conference recommends that: 1. Improvement of the Piis Fisheries Cooperative be encouraged by providing more land to that organization at its present site in order to allow: a. Separation. of the fish receiving section from the fish mar ket- ing section, b. Enlarge badly needed office space and outboard motor repair shop, c. Enlargement of the area required for providing fuel to boats and automobiles, 'd. Construction of a retaining wall with several finger piers to provide for safe and efficient handling of fish and boats. 2. Noting that there is some question as to who will construct the newly acquired ice plant, a firm decision be made by the District Administrator in the immediate future as to precisely who will construct the newly acquired ice plant in order to get construc- tion started just as rapidly as possible. The First Truk Marine Resources Conference also strongly favors a ship repair facility,- a machine shop, and space for an ice and cold stor- age plant be made available inthis area. The Conference commends the presentation by the Director of Resources and Developmentand strongly backs his statement of wanting to get action programs relating to the development of the Marine Resources of the Truk District started as quicklyas possible. The conference also discussed in detail the require - ments for the establishment of large-scale offshorefishing bases in the Truk District, and the need for reserving certain sites for the eventual .-24- development of such ventures. The Conference also took up the problems of poor boat and motor maintenance facilities and discussed means where- by the necessary facilities canbe obtained and personnel trained tocarry onthe essential support functions necessary inoffshore andinshorefish- ing operations. The Conference deplored the rapid turnover in boats and motors in the district and considered the lack of adequate mainten- ance facilities to be a problem of major proportions. The Conference recommends that: 1. The High Commissioner, the Director of Resources and Devel- opment,'the Chief of Marine Resources do everything possible to implement the construction of a large ice and cold storage facility on Moen to serve as the center for the development of the marine resources of the district. 2. Dublon Island be considered,as the most suitable island for long range, large scale fishing activities. 3. The Marine Resources Division prepare a Master Plan for the development of large scale fishing ventures on Dublon and. that such a plan contain cost estimates, plant facilities, etc. 4. The Marine Resources Division take immediate steps to provide a more effective type of boat and engine which can be built and used in the district for the development of its inshore marine resources. 5. The Marine Resources Division, Public Works Department, and the Division of Economic Development take immediate cooper- ative steps to organize a boat building and repair shop, outboard and diesel repair facilities, and a machine shop, even to the extent of subsidizing such services until such time as they are capable of ftmctioning on their own. OPEN PORT CONCESSION The Conference noted the open port concession of.the Executive Agree- ment negotiated between Japan and the United States with great skepticism. The Conference believes the concession will compromise Truk' s com'et- p itive position in the world's offshore fishing industry by allowing foreign nationals the chance to acquire bait fish out of Truk Lagoon and take on foodI water and fuel for longer expeditions. The Conference fears that foreignfishing vessels will attempt to sell fish in Truk and thereby offer stiff competition to domestic operations. The Conference believes the young and struggling economy of Truk continues to need isolation from external pressure for its own development, and the open port provision will compromise this need. The Conference noted that insufficient enforcement agencies exist on.Moen to control the activities of ships using the facilities of open ports. The Conference fears the spread of disease and the sale of contraband. 'The Conference fears the illegal fishing of bait in the Lagoon during midnight hours. The Conference alsofearethe social repercussions of allowing foreign nationals to mifigle freely in Trukese society at this time. The Conference feels that the open port provision might ease the salvage of sunken vessels by foreign nationals, and the Conference wishes to guard against this possibility. Finally, the Conference objects strongly that such aconcession was given without prior consultation with local leaders. Recommendations 1. The Conference recommends that all channels be explored and pressure be brought to bear on the proper parties to take im- mediate steps to remove the open port concession from Ahe Executive Agreement negotiated between Japan and the United States. Z. The Conference 'further recommends that no further steps be taken under Executive Agreements or other documents affect- ing Trukese fishing interests without prior consultation with Trukese leaders. CONSERVATION The conservation program in the district consists, of two men, one out- board boat (Boston Whaler), and daily patrols made within the Lagoon. These patrols are made during the weekdays. No patrols are made on weekends without prior approval. Aside from these, the two staff mem- bers of the conservation program also conduct educational programs from island to island relating to conservation. Unpaid "secret agents" or informers, to a certain extent, complement the conservation staff. The two conservation personnel are responsible to enforce conservation laws of the Trust Territory and the district. A. Dynamite The biggest conservation problem in the district is dynamiti)".1gof fish. With onlytwo men-to enforce'the present laws on dynamiting, it is prac- tically impossible to enforce the laws and regulations effectively. The dynamiters have developed ways to evade the patrols or detect-Lon,, Dy- namiting early inthe morning or atsnndown and Sunday -- churcli -time -- has become very common. Dynamiting around some of the islands in the Faichuk Area is reported on the increase despite the efforts of the conservation program in the district to discourage such. Efforts have been made to determine or locate the sources of the powder used for making fish dynamite. It is found that the sunken ships in the Lagoon which are loaded with explosives have recently become another good source. The explosives are takenoff the, sunken ships by divers using scuba gear. Inthe past it was notpossible to do this because there was no scuba gear in the district. The Conference recommends that: I . A stricter dynamiting.law be made with provisions making mere possession of dynamite powder an offense. 2. At least five personnel comprise the staff of the conservation program, and at least two suitable patrol boats be made avail- able (not Boston Whalers) for their use. 3. A communication network, possibly of walkie-talkie type, be placed at each major island in the Lagoon to expedite reporting -27- of dynamiting. These walkie-talkies must be. available for use by the "secret agents. 4. Son@ie kind of remunerationbe made tothe secretagents, either regularly or upon a successful report or arrest. 5. The known sources of dynamite be removed: explosives in the sunken ships, for example. It may be noted that setting off these explosives under water might be harmful. 6. The news media should be utilized for educational programs on conservation. B. Oil Pollution Another conservation problem. or potential problem) in the Lagoon is the oil-filled fuel.. tanks of the sunken ships. It is known that at least two of these ships have oil leaks. In due time, more and more of these ships I fuel tanks will rupture, resulting in pollution of the ecology of the Lagoon area. The Conference recommends that: L. A survey be made to ascertain whether or not this constitutes a real conservation problem. 2. If so, assistance be obtained to pump the oil before damage is done due to ruptured tanks. C. Clams, Lobsters, Crabs Another problem in this area is the fast disappearance of clams, man- grove crabs and.lobsters (to sim, amwe). Inadvertent taking of these delicious sea foods.has almost exhausted this resource. The Conference recommends that: 1. Appropriate legislationbe initiated towards curbing the present trend and to conserve the clam resources. 2. There must also be conservation laws on mangrove crabs and lobsters. _28- D. Recreation The committee recognizes the potentialities in this area as Truk has a rich variety of sea life. The many islets in the Lagoon and on the reef offer good places and clean water for various types of sea recreation. At this time, the only people who enjoy sea recreation in Truk are the tourists. The lack of facilities and equipment in the district prohibits optimum exploitation of this resource. The committee recommends that: 1. Atourism commission-be e stablished in the district to regulate, coordinate, advance, etc. tourism in the district. -29- SALVAGE CONCESSION The Conference considered in greatdetail the salvage conce s sion granted by the United States in its negotiations with the government of Japan on the War Claims Settlement. The Conference concluded that insufficient understanding of the conditions in Truk stands at the root of the c'onces- 9 ion. The Conference feels that the market value of salvage rights of Japanese vessels sunk during the war exceeds the total contribution of Japan. The Conference further feels that the sunken hulls have great potentialvalue in the attraction of tourists and the preservation of Truk Lagoon as a historic site. The Conference expressed great concern over the potential pollution risk of salvaging the vessels and the potential problem. of major munitions explosions. In the legal arena, the Conference recognized a possible breach of the most- favored- nation clause of the Trusteeship Agreement in the grant- ing of the salvage concession. In addition, the Conference believes that foreign. business ventures of any kind should be required -to follow the procedures of the Foreign Investment Bill rather than be given categor- ical permission to enter Truk under an Agreement negotiated outside the Territory without consultation with the Congress of Micronesia and the people of Truk.. Recommendations L. The Conference strongly recommends that immediate steps be taken'in whatever channels are available to eliminate the s alvag e clause from the Executive Agreement negotiated between the Governments of Japan and the United States. -30- OUTER ISLAND FISHERY DEVELOPMENT The Conference discussed the need for developing the dormant marine resources of the outer islands and the problems which would have to be overcome before it would become possible to start utilizing the'marine resources of these islands. The Conference recognized the need for improving the economy of the outer islands by developing the fisheries of the islands. The importance of ice, cold storage, and suitable refrigerated ships for transporting fish to the main market in the Truk Lagoon was also considered. The possibility of using the KYOSFUN MARU, an Okinawan fishing vessel which was confiscated by the government for illegal fishing in Palan, for such outer island service was discussed. The meeting recognized that the,vessel has been lying idle for some time, that it is in need of an extensive overhaul, and that it will probably require a new refrigeration system. However, as the vessel does have a sound hull and engine, it was felt that the ves s el, which, was built for deep- sea fishing operations and extended trips, does representa means by whichit would bepossible to initiate the development of Truk's outer island fisheries if the vessel can be put into satisfactory working condition. The Conference recommends that. 1. The Marine Resources Division, the Economic Development Division, the Director of Resources and Development, and the High Commissioner actively support proposals such as the op- eration of inshore and offshore fishing vessels, presented for Economic Development Loans by the fishermen and business- rnen of Truk which are for the development of Truk's marine resources. 2. The KYOSFIIN M_ARU be put into service in the Truk District as a reefer vessel servicingthe outer islands, if a marine survey shows it would be suitable for such work. The Conference recognized the tremendous fishing resources of the Truk District rest in large part in the outer island waters. However, the evolution of a stable and prosperous economy cannot proceed without adequate pla ing for the balanced growth of the entire district. -31- The Conference is also aware that on numerous occasions the people of the outer islands have expressed. the desire to enter the economic system of the islands by developing their marine resources and that, in fact, the sea represents their greatest natural resource. The Conference recommends that: 1. The Marine Resources Division and other interested parties take immediate steps to provide program funds for the con- structionof five 40 ft. diesel-powered fishingvessels with sails and ice boxes. 2. Adequate funding for the purchasing of necessary fishing sup- plies, nets, and miscellaneous materials be provided for each of the above fishing vessels. 3. One of.the completely equipped vessels be assigned to each of the outer island groups in the Truk district. 4., A program for the construction of the five fishing boats and the purchase of nets be developed in detail in the Truk district with the assistance of the District Administrator's office, the Piis Fisheries Cooperative and the Truk Marine Resources Division. -32- SUPPORT FACILITIES The Conference realizes that in order to actively support the develop- ment of a fis hing industry in Truk, an adequate infrastructure of dock facilities, ice plant, freezer plant, dry dock facilities and other. major capital investments is absolutely indispensable. The Conference recommends that: 1. The District Director of Public Works, in order to provide construction input into the construction of the infrastructure needed to develop a profitable fishing enterprise, directly transfer such items of machine shop and carpenter shop equip- ment as may be in need of repair or in excess of requirements of the department to the Marine Resources Division for use in the development of district marine dry dock and support facil- iti e s. -33- NAVIGATIONAL AIDS The Conference discussed the need for navigational aids in the Truk Lagoon and recognized that there are over four hundred small boats engaged in fishing and trawling across the Lagoon. The development of the marine resources wfl- 1 increase such trawling, particularly after dark and in such areas as are hazardous for all but very shallow draft vessels. The need for lighted buoys, particularly at the entrance of major chan- nels, was also recognized as vessels returning from offshore fishing operations or inter-island trawling are unable to navigate suchpassages safely at night. The Conference recommends that: 1. Channels in the Lagoon be marked with Coast Guard approved navigational aids. 2. All major passes into andwithintheLagoonbe properlymarked. 3. Dangerous coral heads and patch reefs be properly marked to insure safe day and night navigation of all types of vessels. .-34- CONFERENCE CONCLUSION This Conference, as a problem solv ing approach, was well accepted by all concerned. Wide representation from the local business sector, religious interests, general public, and all levels of government did indeed meet to openly discuss problems of concern to all. A complete representation of views from all participants was incorporated into the final conference report. In fact, a general feeling of confidence, mutual respect, and overall pride prevailed at the closing of the Conference. To all concerned, the participants felt that another conference would be highly desirable in a year and recommend that other program activities would benefit from similar conferences. -35- CONCLUDING REMARKS BY REPRESENTATIVE SASAUO HARUO District Administrator, Honorable Speaker Katsura, Senator Amiraich distinguished members of this Conference, observers and friends Today marks the end of this important and historic Marine Resources Conference in Truk. I wish at this time to express my deep personal gratitude and appreciation to the certain local leaders and our District Administrator for naming me the Chairman of this very important Con- ference. I am proud of this appointment, and I am sincerely happy in working with you all towards our common goal. In Truk the. knowledge of available natural resources, both on land and sea, has not been realized and was rather vague. However, because we now realize our potentials from reliable reading materials and indi- viduals, I believe we should be allowed to the greatest extent possible to move forward. Because we also know that Japan, Russia and other nations are now undertaking extensive scientific research in the sea to explore and develop new products from the sea bed, the establishment and recognition of Micronesian boundaries in terms of land and sea become vital and important. The 3 miles off the reef limit established tebe theboundary by the administering authority for international water and the executive treaty executed by and between Japan and the United States, I believe, are debatable and req-,4ire further bilateral negotia- tions between those powers and Micronesia. I believe strongly that our traditionaland customary laws must be given greater recognitionby the administering authority and other friendly nations. This is vital if we are to develop a stable and profitable Micronesian fishing industry and protect our resources from the exploitation of outsiders. I believe that it is not natural, that we and the rest of the people of Micronesia should rely too heavily on nourishment from imported food such as canned foods, but rather exploit what is naturally ours like fish, which is abundant in our water andthe neighboring water of Micronesia. Many people have emphasized tourism to be the key to our economic development. While the influx of tourists and flow of money in Micronesia is evident, I may addthat I believeeconomic input from tourism is afalse economybecause tourism only depends onthe movement of the world. I do believe greater attention must be paid. to our abundant natural resources. We should take the initiative and take the lead in all segments of economic devel- opment using our natural resources. -36- The illustration by Mr. Zacha ry of the Administration's eager interest to assist, materialize and implement the consciousness of the Trukese, particularly the fishermen, in getting the show moving is appreciated. However, I would urge the Administration not to allow this to be of speculation as always has been the case in the past. In conclusion, I am hopeful that a successful end-result of this Confer- ence will be materialized very shortly. Thank you. -37- RESOLUTION A RESOLUTION REQUESTING MR. PETER WILSON, CHIEF OF MARINE RESOURCES, TO SPONSOR A COCKTAIL PARTY ON THE FINAL DAY OF THE FIRST MARINE RESOURCES CONFERENCE OF TRUKDISTRICT WHEREAS, the past five days of constant work and effort has resulted in a group of weary participants and tired staff; and WHEREAS, in order to achieve the vital second step of turning this Report of the Marine Resources Conference from words into action, a tremendous second effort will be required; and WHEREAS, cocktail parties are, in themselves, stimulating activities togeneral thought, discussion and ideas in the minds of those in attendance; and WHEREAS, the members of the Conference should be given the opportunity to relax together in an atmosphere of cordial relations; and WHEREAS, a cocktailparty with fish sashimi would help stim- ulate the development of the marine resources in Truk; now therefore, BE IT RESOLVED BY the First Marine Resources Conference of Truk District that Mr. Peter Wilson, Chief of Marine Resources, is requested to sponsor a cocktail party on the final day of the First Marine Resources Conference of Truk. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that certified copies of thi.s Res- olution be transmitted to Mr. Peter Wilson, Chief of Marine Resources, and Chairman Sasauo Haruo, Chairman of the First Truk Marine Resources 'Conference. Respectfully submitted; All Members and Participants First Truk Marine Resources Conference Isl Andon L. Amaraich -38- WORKING GROUP ASSIGNMENTS OFFSHORE SECTION FISHERIES TRAINING - Committee A Hermes Katsura - Chairman Tawn Paul Kimiuo Aisek Masauo Shirai Sinipas Andrew Camillo Noket SECOND MARINE RESOURCES CONFERENCE REVIEW LIVE BAIT RESOURCES OF TRUK Committee B Susumu Aizawa Chairman Frank Nifon Riken Ray Setik Rokuro Mori OFFSHORE FISHING & PROCESSING SITE Committee C Andon Amaraich - Chairman Hans Williander, Endy Dois Sasauo'Haruo, Cliff Anable OPERATION OR BUSINESS VENTURES PROVISIONING..STATIQ N - Committee D Camillo Noket - Chairman Aichi Soo Masauo, Nakayama -39- INSHORE SECTION DOCKSIDE FACILITIES - Committee A Endy Dois - Chairman Cliff Anable Andon Amaraich Hans Williander Sasauo Haruo CONSERVATION, RECREATION, SALVAGE OF JAPANESE VESSELS Committee B Masauo Nakayama Chairman Masataka Mori Hermes Katsura OUTER ISLAND FISHERIES DEVELOPMENT Committee C Enis Nedelec - Chairman Restituto Lomongo Tawn Paul Peter Ermel -40- 3 6668 00002 4788