According to Asap Bukurrou, PCS’ Senior Marine Officer, the work could not have been completed without the KSR and BMR.
BMR had supplied the stainless pins that serve as anchor mounts for the buoys. KSR, on the other hand, did the underwater drilling and installation of the pins.“We are very grateful for the support of both KSR and BMR,” Bukurrou said. “KSR, in particular, has, over the years, assisted us in most, if not all, of the installations of demarcation buoys for marine conservation areas throughout Palau.”Bukurrou further credits Stomu Emesiochl – a private tour guide known to have extensive knowledge of “Ileakl el Beluu” and probably has guided more tour dives in the area than anyone else – for identifying the ideal spot for the mooring buoy.According to Bukurrou, the mooring buoy is necessary to prevent corals and other stationary marine life from damage when boats anchor in the area.“Mooring buoys eliminate the need for anchors,” he said, “boats operators can simple tie their boats to the buoys.”The demarcation buoys were installed to clearly indicate the boundaries of “Ileakl el Beluu.” In addition, the mooring buoy was planted in an area most visited by tourist divers.According to Bukurrou, scuba divers often visit the area to see a congregation of giant manta rays. The mooring buoy was put in a spot where the manta rays are not disturbed and yet still be close enough for tourist to view the animals.Boaters are asked to be mindful of the newly installed buoys.
