CNMI governor asks for extension of comment period for Tinian military plans, wants 50 cal machine guns off the table
- Admin
- Aug 15
- 2 min read
By Bryan Manabat
Saipan– Northern Marianas Gov. David Apatang has requested a 60-day extension for comments on the revised draft environmental impact statement for the CNMI joint military training plans on Tinian, saying the civilian community needs more time to evaluate the Department of Defense's proposed actions.
The public comment period, which began on June 6, is scheduled to close on Aug. 20
“We’re flexible," Apatang told Mark Hashimoto, the executive director of the U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific. "Once those comments are put together and agreeable to what’s going on, then we can move forward.”
The DOD is currently gathering public input on its proposed military expansion on Tinian, which would include live-fire ranges, a base camp, communications infrastructure and a biosecurity facility.
The feedback will help shape the final environmental impact statement for the CJMT program.
During a recent public meeting in Kagman, CNMI Del. Kimberlyn King-Hinds highlighted concerns raised by the local community, particularly regarding the use of specific ammunition and its potential impact on the region's vital fishing and shipping industries.
A key issue identified is the proposed use of 50-caliber ammunition, which is feared to create a substantial "surface danger zone" that extends into the surrounding waters, posing a direct threat to maritime traffic, including commercial shipping vessels and local fishermen. The noise from the weapons is also a significant concern for the local population.
King-Hinds said the governor has proposed the removal of 50-caliber ammunition from the training plan, which would drastically reduce the surface danger zone and make the waters safer for both commercial and recreational activities.
“I think that's a very good ask. There's a strong possibility that's going to get taken off the table, which is good, which is, you know, good for all of us,” King-Hinds said.
Apatang also advocated for the implementation of fishing aggregate devices. These submerged or floating instruments attract fish, creating concentrated fishing areas.
King-Hinds said by installing multiple fishing aggregate devices around Tinian, Saipan and Rota, fishermen would be able to fish in select areas, providing a direct benefit to the local fishing community and counteracting the potential disruptions from the military training.
The proposal is being viewed as a constructive step toward balancing national security requirements with the well-being and economic stability of the local community.
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