THE Mariana Islands Nature Alliance is pleased to announce the completion of its typhoon debris removal project in Saipan and Tinian. The project, which began in January 2021 and concluded on January 30, 2025, was supported by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and NOAA’s Marine Debris Program.
The project aimed to address the growing issue of marine and terrestrial debris in coastal areas, particularly in Tinian Harbor and the southern coast of Saipan. With all of Tinian and Saipan considered coastal, MINA expanded its efforts to include inland areas that could impact the marine environment, especially in light of future storms.
“Years after storms and after the immediate human health and safety needs have been addressed, many of these impacted communities are still dealing with debris fields that can be miles long,” said Jeff Trandahl, executive director and CEO of NFWF. “This marine debris is not only an additional detriment to these already burdened communities, but it also has prolonged impacts to fish, wildlife and their habitats.”
Over the course of the project, a total of 425,770 pounds of debris were removed from coastal and nearshore areas. This included hazardous materials such as metal and plastics. Notably, nearly 160,000 pounds of debris were collected from schools during clean-up activities. Major efforts also targeted areas severely impacted by Typhoon Yutu, including a Commonwealth Utilities Corporation warehouse and a NOAA-ICON weather station in LaoLao Bay. Both had caused environmental damage for years.
Additionally, 112,115 pounds of debris were sent to metal recycling centers, reducing the project’s environmental footprint. More than 7,100 acres of marine, coastal, and terrestrial habitats were restored, with over 90% of the restoration work focusing on marine ecosystems. These efforts helped protect endangered species habitats and minimized further environmental degradation. The project also focused on coral protection, including translocating affected species to minimize damage to marine biodiversity.
The successful completion of the typhoon debris removal project has greatly benefited the islands, helping protect the environment from future storms and preserving wildlife habitats, including those of endangered species. This work has also provided a cleaner, safer environment for the communities of Saipan and Tinian.
MINA extends its sincere gratitude to the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Office of the Mayor of Tinian and Aguiguan, the CNMI Public School System, the Commonwealth Utilities Corporation, and both local and federal natural resources management partners. Special thanks also go to subcontractors, Tasi Watch Rangers, and the many volunteers whose dedication was integral to the success of the project.
Becky Furey, MINA’s program director, said, “We are humbled to have completed this important project. The impact of debris on our islands is significant, and we are grateful for the support we received from our partners, volunteers, and the dedicated team who helped make this possible. This project is a meaningful step in the ongoing effort to protect and restore the ecosystems of the Marianas.”
About MINA
MINA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit environmental organization that has been serving the Marianas since 2005. Through a combination of science and island wisdom, MINA empowers local communities to engage in environmental stewardship and helps to create lasting, positive change for the natural ecosystems of the Marianas.
To learn more about MINA’s programs or to get involved, visit www.minapacific.org or contact MINA at minaoutreach@gmail.com/. You can also follow MINA on its social media platforms for updates on upcoming projects and initiatives
Before and after: Utility storage depot
Saipan Southern High School campus cleanup
Tinian Harbor debris removal
Tinian Harbor extraction activities
