In a memo issued on Wednesday, the governor instructed the directors of the Division of Environmental Quality, the Coastal Resources Management Office and the Division of Fish and Wildlife to help Mafnas fulfill his responsibilities.
“The official designated point of contact shall make available all information pertaining to the Coral Reef Initiative, including, but not limited to budgets, meeting minutes, and all other pertinent information necessary for Mr. Mafnas to effectively represent the CNMI,” the governor said.
Saipan hosted the 10th U.S. Coral Reef Task Force in 2003.
The three-major islands of this U.S. commonwealth were formed by underwater volcanoes.
The islands are home to 268 coral species — more than what can be found in the state of Hawaii.
Scientists said the islands’ corals are generally healthy but they are under threat from tourism and fishing activities as well as urban development.
