Pagan Airstrip Master Plan

B. Information Exchange Meeting Notes C. Civil-Military Innovative Readiness Training (IRT) Application LIST OF TABLES Chapter 4 Table 4A A Brief Overview of “People Use” of Pagan Through each of the Historical Time Periods Chapter 6 Table 6A Number of Flights to Pagan per Month, 2004-2007 Table 6B Pagan Charter Flight Clientele, 2004-2007 Table 6C Type of Aircraft used on Charter Flights to Pagan, 2004-2007 Chapter 7 Table 7A FAA Airport Design Standards Table 7B Runway Length Requirements Table 7C Aircraft Weights Table 7D Runway Length Requirements Chapter 10 Table10A Development Summary and Cost Estimate Chapter 11 Table 11A Summary of Brown Tree Snake Sightings/Captures in the CNMI Since 1982 Table 11B Federal and Locally Protected Species in the CNMI Table 11C Distribution of Federally Protected Terrestrial Vertebrate Wildlife Species and Plant Species in the CNMI Table 11D Impacts (Potential) Matrix for the Four Proposed Alternatives LIST OF FIGURES Chapter 3 Figure 3A Pagan Island Figure 3B Regional Geologic Map Figure 3C Map of Pagan Island Figure 3D Bandera Peninsula Figure 3E Mount Pagan Figure 3F Anatahan Volcano Figure 3G NOAA Satellite Image Figure 3H Map of Major Vocanoes of the Mariana Islands Figure 3I 7.2 Quake Jolts Pagan, Saipan, and Tinian Figure 3J Northern Mariana Is. and the Marianas Trench Figure 3K Face of the Earth Surrounding Pagan PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI v ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation Figure 3L NASA Space Station Image of Plume Caused by the Eruption of Anatahan Volcano Figure 3M NASA Space Station Image of Plume Caused by Pagan Volcano Figure 3N CNMI Latest Report on Final Pagan Volcano Activity Figure 3O CNMI Latest Declaration of a State of Emergency on Anatahan Island Figure 3P Information on Mount Pagan Volcano Figure 3Q Eruptive History of Mount Pagan Volcano Figure 3R Preliminary Geologic Map of Mt. Pagan Volcano, Pagan Island Chapter 4 Figure 4A Census 2000 Population of CNMI Figure 4B Registered Voters in the Northern Islands Election District as of November 1, 2007 Figure 4C EMO Area Advisory Figure 4D PEW Charitable Trust’s Proposed Marianas Trench Marine National Monument Figure 4E Pagan Island Survey Map by Department of Public Lands Figure 4F Pagan Mining Project, Mine Operation Areas Chapter 5 Figure5A Timeline of Events Figure 5B Preliminary Geologic Man of Mt. Pagan Volcano, USGS 2006 Figure 5C Pagan Airstrip, Listed as Location Identifier TT01 by FAA Figure 5D Airport Master Record of TT01 Airstrip Figure 5E FAA International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Location Identifier Figure 5F CRM Map of Pagan Airstrip Figure 5G Diagram of Historical Remains Figure 5H Aerial View of Pagan Airstrip Figure 5I Parcel Survey Plat of Pagan Airstrip Chapter 7 Figure7A Cessna Skymaster used for Charter Flights to Pagan by Americopters Figure 7B Piper PA-32 “Cherokee Six” used for Saipan-Tinian Commuter Route by Freedom Air Figure 7C Pipe 6X is the latest Updated Model of the Piper PA-32 Family Figure 7D Cessna Model 172 “Skyhawk” Figure 7E Cessna Model 150 Figure 7F Short 330 Operated by Freedom Air Figure 7G Short 360 Operated by Freedom Air Chapter 9 Figure 9A Pagan Airstrip Master Plan Figure 9B Airport Layout Plan Figure 9C Inner Approach Surface Plan Figure 9D Airport Project Map PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 1 – Introduction 1-1ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION 1.1 General The Pagan airstrip is a grassy runway located on the island of Pagan in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI). The entire island of Pagan is publicly owned, including the runway, and administered by the Department of Public Lands (DPL). In 1981, a major volcanic eruption occurred on Pagan that resulted in the evacuation of the entire population. The volcanic eruption resulted in lava flow covering approximately half the length of the runway. In June 2007, the Commonwealth Ports Authority (CPA) awarded a contract to EFC Engineers and Architects Corporation to prepare a Master Plan for the development of the Pagan Airstrip. Requests from the former residents of Pagan to return to the island and re- establish permanent settlements, combined with growing interest in developing the economic potential of Pagan and the other islands north of Saipan, have prompted the CNMI government, and particularly the Northern Islands Mayor’s Office (NIMO) to prepare plans for infrastructure development on Pagan. The NIMO considers the development of the Pagan Airstrip and the provision of reliable air transportation services as critical infrastructure improvements required to facilitate the resettlement process and to stimulate economic activity in the Northern Islands. PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 1 – Introduction 1-2ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation 1.2 Purpose and Scope The primary objective of this study is to prepare a master plan that will support and guide future development plans for the Pagan airstrip. Future development should cost-effectively satisfy aviation demands while considering potential environmental and socioeconomic impacts and exploring options for avoiding, minimizing, or reducing impacts to sensitive resources. This master plan will: 1. Compile and analyze data related to past and present conditions on Pagan, and evaluate the ability of existing facilities to meet current and projected aviation demands. 2. Identify and assess alternatives for effective planning, and select a course of action for development. 3. Document the issues that the proposed development of the Pagan airstrip will address. 4. Identify and discuss the proposed development through the technical, economic, and environmental investigation of concepts and alternatives. 5. Provide an effective graphic presentation of existing facilities and proposed improvements. 6. Discuss a schedule for the implementation of the proposed development. 7. Discuss a financial plan to support the planned improvements. 8. Document policies and future aviation demands, and satisfy local and federal regulations. PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 1 – Introduction 1-3ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation 1.3 Information Exchange Meetings Interviews and meetings with representatives of various CNMI government agencies, flight operators, and others were conducted. Records of these discussions and meetings are included in Appendix A “Work Activity Reports” and Appendix B “Information Exchange Meeting Notes” in this Master Plan. Persons taking part in information exchange meetings included the following: Juan R. Sablan Commonwealth Ports Authority, Engineering Valentin Taisacan Mayor of the Northern Islands Pedro R. Guerrero Northern Islands Mayor’s Office Emilio A. Ayuyu Northern Islands Mayor’s Office B.M. Aldan Northern Islands Mayor’s Office Dr. Ignacio Dela Cruz Dept. of Lands and Natural Resources, Secretary Henry S. Hofschneider Dept. of Lands and Natural Resources, Special Assistant to the Secretary Jack Songsong Dept. of Lands and Natural Resources, Director of Lands and Surveying Manny Pangelinan Dept. of Lands and Natural Resources Alvin Cepeda Dept. of Lands and Natural Resources PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 1 – Introduction 1-4ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation Vincent Torres Dept. of Public Lands, Planning Division (GIS) Jocelyn Aldan Dept. of Public Lands, Planning Division Deirdre McClarin Coastal Resources Management, GIS Associate Paul Radley Division of Fish & Wildlife, Wildlife Biologist Ronnie Rogers Historic Preservation Officer, Chief Archeologist John Gourley Micronesian Environmental Services Bobby Nato Americopters, Controller Andy Nehring Americopters, Controller Annette Donnor Joint Guam Program Office, Public Information Office Efrain F. Camacho EFC Engineers & Architects 1.4 Field Survey of the Pagan Airstrip EFC Engineers & Architects conducted a field survey in November 2007 to verify, document, and assess the existing conditions of the Pagan Airstrip. This field data was incorporated into the Master Plan. 1.5 Federal Guidelines The Master Plan report and Airport Layout Plan (ALP) was prepared following the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) guidelines. The document titles and descriptions of the FAA guidelines referenced for the preparation of this report are as listed below. PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 1 – Introduction 1-5ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation FAA Advisory Circular “AIRPORT MASTER PLANS” AC 150/5070-6B The FAA Advisory Circular (AC) 150/5070-6B provides guidance for the preparation of airport master plans that range in size and function from small general aviation to large commercial service facilities. According to the same document, an Airport Master Plan is defined as a concept of the long-term development of an airport. The Master Plan displays this concept graphically and documents the data and logic upon which the plan is based. FAA Advisory Circular “AIRPORT DESIGN” AC 150/5300-13 The FAA AC 150/5300-13 contains the FAA's standards and recommendations for airport design. These standards were used as a guideline in the preparation of the Airport Layout Plan (ALP) contained in this Master Plan report. FAA Western Pacific Region “ALP CHECKLIST” The ALP contained in this report follows the requirements listed in the FAA Western Pacific Region ALP Checklist list (Updated 02/10/06). The same document reflects FAA’s drawing preparation requirements, per the following FAA Advisory Circulars: • AC 150/5070-6B Airport Master Plans, Appendix F • AC 150/5030-13 Airport Design, Change 9, Appendix 7 • AC 150/5340-1H Standards for Airport Marking • AC 150/5235-4 Runway Length Requirements For Airport Design • FAA Order 5090.3c Field Formulation of the NPIAS PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 1 – Introduction 1-6ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation 1.6 Civil-Military Innovative Readiness Training (IRT) Application EFC Engineers & Architects prepared the application for the Civil- Military Innovative Readiness Training for financial support. The application was submitted to CPA, then forwarded to the CNMI Office of the Governor by CPA in July 2008. A copy of this application is included in Appendix C “Civil-Military Innovative Readiness Training (IRT) Application” of this Master Plan. PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 2 – Executive Summary 2-1 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation CHAPTER 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 2.1 Conclusion It is recommended that the current runway length of 1,500 feet be extended to reach a total runway length of 3,000 feet. It is also recommended that a windsock, distance marker and runway end marker be installed, and the erosion at the western end of the runway should be abated by constructing a riprap wall. 2.2 Forecast of Aviation Demand Based on meetings with the Mayor of the Northern Islands Municipality, two flights per month is the best projection for the immediate (5 year) future. The anticipated aircraft will be single engine or twin engine, general aviation aircraft that fall within Aircraft Categories A and B, with maximum take off weights of less than 5,000 pounds. Cargo out of Pagan may play a greater role than passenger service. Pagan Island’s potential exports include agricultural produce, copra and coconut oil, and fish, all of which would require airlifting to market centers. PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 2 – Executive Summary 2-2 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation 2.3 Facility Requirements The recommended facilities mentioned in 2.1 above are what would be essential to a safe operation of the airfield. 2.4 Recommended Development The recommended development is to extend the runway to allow for larger aircraft to operate. Currently, the only aircraft that can land and take off safely on the runway are those with a maximum weight limit of approximately 600lbs. Extending the runway will involve removal of about 240,000 cubic yards of lava which cover an area of 2,100 ft x 250 ft x 12 ft in depth. Runway distance and end markers, and the installation of a windsock would be needed. In addition, the west end of the runway is eroding and will need to be stabilized. The existing grass lined runway needs to be flattened out by filling in the bomb craters. Also, it is highly recommended that the grass be trimmed. At present, wild cows and goats on the island graze on the runway keeping the grass trimmed. However, it is an uneven process and there are grass stubs that could potentially be hazardous to air traffic. 2.5 Financing Even under the best conditions, the revenue expected from such a small operation as the Pagan airstrip will not be able to support its operations. Runway development is essential, however, so that Pagan residents displaced by the volcanic eruption can return to PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 2 – Executive Summary 2-3 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation the island and have a ready means of evacuation for medical or safety purposes in the future. The Mayor of the Northern Islands Municipality envisions Pagan to be the future center of economic development in the Northern Islands. Pagan is the only island in the Northern Islands with sufficient flat land for a runway that can support fixed wing type aircrafts. Pagan is also capable of developing agricultural, tourism, commercial fishing, and other revenue generating industries, but these industries would depend on reliable air transportation. There are currently no definitive plans to develop new infrastructure for Pagan or in the Northern Islands. CNMI is experiencing extreme economic difficulty making it unlikely for any funds to be made available, specifically, for the improvement to the Pagan Airstrip. Nonetheless, the Mayor of the Northern Islands is pursuing obtaining allocation on future CIP and other fundings for the improvement work. Financing the Pagan airfield to bring it to a safe operational level can be achieved by a combination of several funding options such as the FAA AIP grants, local appropriation, and other grants. The estimated improvement costs are $4,912,500.00. MASTER PLAN FOR THE PAGAN AIRSTRIP Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 3 Natural Settings P. 3-1 CHAPTER 3 NATURAL SETTINGS 3.1 Geography FIGURE 3A: Pagan Island (Source: Landstat) The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) is comprised of 14 volcanic islands located in the North Pacific Ocean along the Marianas Trench, just north of the island of Guam. The CNMI stretches over 375 miles from the southernmost island of Rota to the northernmost uninhabited island of Uracas, with a total land area of 176.5 square miles. [1] The three southern islands of Saipan, Tinian, and Rota are the primary population centers; Saipan is the largest and most densely populated island in the CNMI. The ten islands north of Saipan are collectively referred to as the Northern Islands Municipality, and comprise a total land area of 55.3 square miles. [1] Pagan Island is the middle and largest island of the Northern Island chain. It is located 320 miles north of Saipan at latitude 18˚10’ N and longitude 145˚46’ E. Approximately ten miles long and ranging in width from one-half to four miles, the island of Pagan covers an area of approximately 18.5 square miles. [1] MASTER PLAN FOR THE PAGAN AIRSTRIP Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 3 Natural Settings P. 3-2 FIGURE 3B: REGIONAL GEOLOGIC MAP The island chain of the Northern Islands along the Mariana Trench to the west. (Source: USGS Open-File Report 2006-1386 Preliminary Geologic Map of Mount Pagan Volcano, Pagan Island, CNMI) MASTER PLAN FOR THE PAGAN AIRSTRIP Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 3 Natural Settings P. 3-3 FIGURE 3C: MAP OF PAGAN ISLAND (Source: The Northern Islands Development Plan, Mayor’s Office of the Northern Islands, CNMI) MASTER PLAN FOR THE PAGAN AIRSTRIP Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 3 Natural Settings P. 3-4 3.2 Topography FIGURE 3D: Bandera Peninsula The flat land right of the Bandera Peninsula is the Pagan Airfield. The black colored lava flow interrupts the runway. Pagan Island consists of two stratovolcanoes joined by an isthmus. The stratovolcano at the northeast end of the island, Mount Pagan, has an altitude of 1,870 feet; the stratovolcano at the southwest end has an altitude of 1,797 feet. About 75% of Pagan Island consists of barren lava fields and mountainous terrain. Moderately sloping plains and basins characterize the western half of northern Pagan, while the southern half of the island is high, rugged, and largely inaccessible. Sandy beaches occur on the northwestern and eastern coasts. [2] Mount Pagan was probably once a cone-shaped volcano that rose as high as 4,000 feet above sea level before it collapsed into a deep caldera approximately three and a half miles in diameter with cliffs that rise as high as 100 to 800 feet above sea level. The south caldera rim forms a prominent escarpment that runs from east to west across the isthmus and is of an estimated height of 70 to 120 feet. Immediately north of the escarpment is Pagan Plain, the largest area of flat land on the island. The airstrip is located on this plain, roughly parallel to the escarpment. Smaller areas of nearly flat land occur north and northwest of the Pagan Airstrip. [3] Because of its size and relative flatness, Pagan Plain is generally considered to be the only area in the Northern islands that is suitable for an airstrip. Elsewhere on Pagan, and throughout the Northern Islands, the land is too rugged and inaccessible to be favorable for construction. Though Pagan lacks streams, it has two lakes located north of the isthmus, both of which contain brackish water. Lagunan Sanhalom, or Inner Lake, lies just east of Mount Pagan, spans 42 acres, and is MASTER PLAN FOR THE PAGAN AIRSTRIP Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 3 Natural Settings P. 3-5 surrounded by three sides of steep lava walls. Lake Laguna, or Outer Lake, is separated from Shomushon Bay by a barrier beach ridge. [3] [4] 3.3 Climate and Wind The climate of the Northern Marianas archipelago is marine tropical, with a wet season from July to October, and a dry season from November to June. Humidity, temperature, and pressure stay fairly constant throughout the year. Average annual air temperatures range between 80 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, with the highest temperatures generally occurring in June. Average annual rainfall ranges between 70 and 80 inches, with April being the driest month and September the wettest. [2] Winds of 5 to 10 mph are normal with some increase of velocities toward evening. Short duration winds between 20 and 30 mph often accompany rain showers. Pagan is dominated by northeast trade winds, which bring frequent heavy showers during much of the year, except in late spring and early summer. Surface winds are prevailing easterly throughout the year with seasonal differences. From December to March, trade winds blow from the northeast. In August and September, winds blow from the southeast, south, and southwest. [2] Tropical storms, tropical cyclones, typhoons and super typhoons are common in the islands and can generate cyclonic winds of 33- 65 knots as well as storm surges. These disturbances occur most frequently during the wet season. Typhoons with sustained winds exceeding 140 knots, with gusts over 155 knots have been recorded on Pagan. [2] MASTER PLAN FOR THE PAGAN AIRSTRIP Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 3 Natural Settings P. 3-6 3.4 Volcanic Activity on Pagan FIGURE 3E: Mount Pagan (Source: USGS Open-File Report 2006-1386 Preliminary Geologic Map of Mount Pagan Volcano, Pagan Island, CNMI) The Mariana Islands are exposed crests of the seismically active Mariana Arc. The Marianas Trench and the Northern Mariana Islands overlie an active subduction zone where the Pacific Plate, moving northwest at about 10.3cm a year, is passing beneath the Philippine Plate, moving west-northwest at 6.8cm per year. During the past century, more than 40 earthquakes of magnitude 6.5 to 8.1 have shaken the Marianas Trench. [3] Few detailed investigations have been made of the geology and historic volcanic activity of Mount Pagan. Several eruptions were reported in the 1600s, a large eruption was reported in the 1870s, and volcanic activity was noted in the 1920s. The most recent major eruption of Mount Pagan occurred on May 15, 1981, and resulted in the evacuation of all 54 residents. This eruption continued until May 1985. The lava flow from this eruption covered an area of about five miles in the north-south direction, by four miles west-east. [5] [6] Intermittent volcanic activities of Mount Pagan were subsequently recorded in September 1987, February 1988, August 1988, April 1992, and January 1993. The most recent volcanic activity of Mount Pagan was recorded on December 4, 2006, which included central vent eruption and explosive eruption. This continued for four days, and the Final Pagan Volcano Activity report was issued on December 11, 2006, which stated that no further ash emission from the volcano had been detected. [5] [6] The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) operated two seismometers on MASTER PLAN FOR THE PAGAN AIRSTRIP Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 3 Natural Settings P. 3-7 the Pagan Island during the 1990s and in 2001. The island’s volcanic activities are being monitored by Washington Volcano Ash Advisory Center (VAAC) and USGS in coordination with the CNMI Emergency Management Office, CNMI Office of the Governor. [7] 3.5 Volcanic Activity in the Region FIGURE 3F: Anatahan Volcano (Source: USGS) Seventy-five miles north of Saipan and 245 miles south of Pagan on Anatahan Island is another active volcano. Anatahan Volcano is one of the most active volcanoes of the Northern Mariana Islands, and its volcanic and seismic activities are closely monitored. The island is about 5.6 miles long and two miles wide, and has an area of approximately 12 square miles. Its stratovolcano contains the largest known caldera in the CNMI. [5] [6] Anatahan has not been inhabited since 1990, when residents were evacuated because of a strong earthquake. The first historical eruption, and a large and explosive one, occurred in May 2003. Since then, USGS and the CNMI Emergency Management Office (EMO) have operated observation stations on Anatahan to monitor volcanic activities through seismometer readings and over flight observations. The EMO and USGS issued a Declaration of a State of Emergency after the first eruption of Anatahan Volcano in 2003; a state of disaster has since been extended. The island is still considered unsafe for human habitation and all travel is restricted. [8] MASTER PLAN FOR THE PAGAN AIRSTRIP Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 3 Natural Settings P. 3-8 FIGURE 3-G NOAA SATELLITE IMAGE The ash from Anatahan Volcano is blown downwind towards the west. (Source: NOAA) 3.6 Volcanic Activity and Aviation Safety in the Northern Islands Volcanic ash clouds can impact aviation safety. When an airplane flies into a volcanic ash cloud, the silicate particles in the cloud enter the engines and melt, which can lead to engine damage and malfunction. Volcanic ash reduces engine performance and may cause engine failure, depending on the concentration of gas and aerosols. Volcanic ash can abrade external components of aircraft, clog air-filter systems, and contaminate aircraft interior parts, including electronic systems, power generators, and navigation systems. [9] Close monitoring of volcanic activity, emissions, and wind direction of the volcanoes in the Northern Islands is therefore critical to aviation safety in the region. When ash and gas plumes move away from volcanoes, the plumes lose altitude and form a curtain of ash MASTER PLAN FOR THE PAGAN AIRSTRIP Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 3 Natural Settings P. 3-9 that can threaten aircraft in flight. In downwind areas, pilots experience difficulties distinguishing volcanic clouds from weather- related clouds. During normal easterly winds, volcanic emissions from Pagan and Anatahan Volcanoes are blown west of the CNMI and Guam. During more northerly winds, emissions are blown toward the CNMI and Guam and are experienced as a sulfur- scented haze. [9] The USGS produces biweekly Recent Status Reports on volcanic activities in the CNMI. Recent alert levels have ranged from Aviation Color Code Green (i.e., low-level tremors with occasional small earthquakes, and visible weak gas and steam plume emissions) in July 2007, to Aviation Color Code Yellow (gas emissions, elevated levels of sulfur dioxide, and volcanic haze) in October 2007. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides satellite imagery services, including meteorological information. Other U.S. agencies such as the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the research consortium UNAVCO provide advanced high-precision images, some of which are accessible to the public through the Internet and updated hourly or daily. [7] The USGS and the Washington Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC) monitor Mount Pagan and the other volcanoes in the Northern Islands by analyzing satellite imagery. Volcanic cloud hazards are closely monitored by meteorological agencies, volcanic observatories, and air traffic control centers. The VAAC issues Volcanic Ash Advisories and provides information on volcanic clouds to aircrafts in flight and for planning purposes. The National Center for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) is responsible for issuing Volcanic Ash Forecast Transport and Dispersion (VAFTAD) MASTER PLAN FOR THE PAGAN AIRSTRIP Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 3 Natural Settings P. 3-10 Models. [6] [7] A National Volcano Early Warning System (NVEWS) is being formulated by the Consortium of U.S. Volcano Observatories (CUSVO) to establish a proactive monitoring program for active volcanoes. Although it is difficult to predict the future course of eruptions in the Northern Islands, the USGS observes the present state as having a relatively low level of volcanic activity, and anticipates larger explosive activity and eruptions of Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) levels 4 to 5. Depending on prevailing winds, such explosions could result in ash fall on nearby islands. For Anatahan, a massive explosive eruption level of VEH 6 or higher is considered unlikely. [6] [7] 3.7 Environmental Constraints and Planning Factors Strong winds, rough seas, volcanic activity, typhoons, generally unpredictable weather, and capital expenditure requirements have hindered previous efforts to visit, survey, and develop infrastructure on Pagan. These obstacles are likely to exist as well for any planning and construction efforts of the Pagan Airstrip. MASTER PLAN FOR THE PAGAN AIRSTRIP Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 3 Natural Settings P. 3-11 FIGURE 3H: MAP OF MAJOR VOCANOES OF THE MARIANA ISLANDS (Source: USGS website) MASTER PLAN FOR THE PAGAN AIRSTRIP Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 3 Natural Settings P. 3-12 FIGURE 3I: “7.2 quake jolts Pagan, Saipan, and Tinian” A 7.2 magnitude earthquake followed by massive aftershocks jolted the Mariana Islands on October 31, 2007. The epicenter was 57.8 miles north-northwest of Pagan, and 138.26 miles north-northwest of Saipan and depth was 235 kilometers. (Source: Saipan Tribune, November 1, 2007) MASTER PLAN FOR THE PAGAN AIRSTRIP Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 3 Natural Settings P. 3-13 JULES VERNE VOYAGER: EARTH Solar System Portal FIGURE 3J: NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS AND THE MARIANAS TRENCH The Northern Mariana Islands is located along the Marianas Trench shown in the rectangle in the center of the image. (Source: UNAVCO, Inc. Jules Verne Voyager mapping, Smithsonian Global Volcanism Program) MASTER PLAN FOR THE PAGAN AIRSTRIP Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 3 Natural Settings P. 3-14 FIGURE 3K: FACE OF THE EARTH SURROUNDING PAGAN The island chain of the Northern Islands along the Mariana Trench to the west. (Source: UNAVCO, Inc. Jules Verne Voyager mapping, Smithsonian Global Volcanism Program) MASTER PLAN FOR THE PAGAN AIRSTRIP Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 3 Natural Settings P. 3-15 FIGURE 3L: NASA SPACE STATION IMAGE OF PLUME CAUSED BY THE ERUPTION OF ANATAHAN VOLCANO A thick cloud of ash erupts from the Anatahan Volcano in this Terra MODIS image collected on April 6, 2005. According to the Washington Volcanic Ash Advisory Center, a series of low-level eruptions starting on April 4 caused this plume. The explosive eruption of Anatahan Volcano on April 6, 2005 sent a plume of ash up to 15,200 meters into the air. This is the largest eruption at the volcano since its first recorded eruption on May 10, 2003. This image was acquired about eight hours after the eruption began. By this time, the ash had spread south to entirely cover Saipan and Tinian, the islands immediately south of the volcano. Aircraft were warned to avoid the area because volcanic ash could destroy jet engines. (Source: NASA website) MASTER PLAN FOR THE PAGAN AIRSTRIP Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 3 Natural Settings P. 3-16 FIGURE 3M: NASA SPACE STATION IMAGE OF PLUME CAUSED BY PAGAN VOLCANO Pagan Island released a plume of ash and/or steam in early December 2006. The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) flying onboard NASA’s Terra satellite captured this image of the volcano on December 6, 2006. In this image, the plume appears slightly darker than the nearby cloud cover. While the clouds are white, the plume is pale beige. Winds blow the plume to the west, and it quickly dissipates over the Pacific. Pagan Island is one of the most active volcanoes in the Mariana Islands. The island includes two stratovolcanoes composed of layers of hardened ash and lava, and consolidated volcanic rocks. In the north is Mount Pagan, which is 570 meters high. In the south is South Pagan, which is 548 meters high. Recorded eruptions dating back to the 17th century have all come from the north volcano. (Source: NASA website, MODIS Rapid Response Team, Goddard Space Flight Center) MASTER PLAN FOR THE PAGAN AIRSTRIP Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 3 Natural Settings P. 3-17 Benigno R. Fitial, Governor Timothy P. Villagomez, Lt. Governor COMMOWEALTH OF THE ORTHER MARIAA ISLADS Emergency Management Office Office of the Director Gregorio A. Deleon Guerrero, Director Mark S. Pangelinan, Dep. Director December11, 2006 3:45p.m. Final Pagan Volcano Activity Acting Governor Timothy P. Villagomez would like to inform the General Public that according to the Washington Volcano Ash Advisory Center (VAAC) and USGS in coordination with the Emergency Management Office, Office of the Governor has reported that no further ash emission from the volcano on the Island of Pagan have been detected, this is according to the latest satellite observation. The last ash emission was reported on December 08, 2006 at 433p.m. Low-level ash emissions would move toward the west or northwest direction at 23 to 29 miles per hour. Present condition on Pagan: ORMAL The USGS and EMO will continue to monitor the volcano on Pagan closely for additional activity. o Further Advisories will be issued unless conditions change. Update: By:act FIGURE 3N: CNMI LATEST REPORT ON FINAL PAGAN VOLCANO ACTIVITY (Source: CNMI Emergency Management Office website) MASTER PLAN FOR THE PAGAN AIRSTRIP Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 3 Natural Settings P. 3-18 FIGURE 3O: CNMI LATEST DECLARATION OF A STATE OF EMERGENCY ON ANATAHAN ISLAND Anatahan Island is a volcanic island of the Northern Islands. The explosive volcanic activity began suddenly in May 2003. CNMI EMO continues today to monitor volcanic and seismic activities and updates safety information for the public. (Source: CNMI Emergency Management Office website) MASTER PLAN FOR THE PAGAN AIRSTRIP Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 3 Natural Settings P. 3-19 PAGAN Country: United States Subregion Name: Mariana Islands Volcano Number: 0804-17= Volcano Type: Stratovolcanoes Volcano Status: Historical Last Known Eruption: 2006 Summit Elevation: 570 m 1,870 feet Latitude: 18.13°N 18°8'0"N Longitude: 145.80° E 145°48'0" E Pagan Island, the largest and one of the most active of the Mariana Islands volcanoes, consists of two stratovolcanoes connected by a narrow isthmus. Both North and South Pagan stratovolcanoes were constructed within calderas, 7 and 4 km in diameter, respectively. The 570-m-high Mount Pagan at the NE end of the island rises above the flat floor of the northern caldera, which probably formed during the early Holocene. South Pagan is a 548-m-high stratovolcano with an elongated summit containing four distinct craters. Almost all of the historical eruptions of Pagan, which date back to the 17th century, have originated from North Pagan volcano. The largest eruption of Pagan during historical time took place in 1981 and prompted the evacuation of the sparsely populated island. FIGURE 3P: INFORMATION ON MOUNT PAGAN VOLCANO (Source: Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History Global Volcanism Program website) MASTER PLAN FOR THE PAGAN AIRSTRIP Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 3 Natural Settings P. 3-20 PAGAN ERUPTIVE HISTORY Area of Activity Start Stop Eruptive Characteristics VEI Volume Year MoDy Year MoDy CERF SIGC ENPF FLDS FDMT L / T North Pagan 2006 1204 2006 1208 x - - - - - - - x - - - - - - - - - - - 1 North Pagan 1993 0115e 1993 11 . .> x - - - - - - - x - - - - - - - - - x - 2 North Pagan 1992 0413 1992 0413 x - - - - - - - x - - - - - - - - - - - 1? North Pagan 1988 0824 1988 1012 x - - - - - - - x - - - - - - - - - - - 2 North Pagan ? 1988 0216 . . . . . . . . x - - - - - - - ? - - - - - - - - - - - North Pagan 1987 0904 1987 0904 x - - - - - - - x - - - - - - - - - - - 1 North Pagan (summit and north flank) 1981 0515 1985 0501> x x x - - - - - x x - - x - - - - x - - 4 7 / 8 ("eruption" actually a grassfire) X 1966 0523 . . . . . . . . South Pagan, cone within caldera ? 1929 . . . . ? 1930 . . . . x - - - - - - - ? - - ? - - - - - - - - 1925 02 . . 1925 0505 x - - - - - - - x - - - x - - - - - - - 2 North Pagan 1923 02 . .? 1923 0326e x - - - - - - - x - - - x - - - - - - - 3 North Pagan 1917 . . . . . . . . . . . . x - - - - - - - x - - - - - - - - - - - 2 North Pagan 1909 . . . . . . . . . . . . x - - - - - - - x - - - - - - - - - - - 2 North pagan 1873? . . . . . . . . . . . . x - - - - - - - x - - - x - - - - - - - 3? South Pagan 1864 . . . . . . . . . . . . - - - - - - - - x - - - - - - - - - - - 1? North Pagan 1825e . . . . . . . . . . . . - - - - - - - - x - - - - - - - - - - - 2? North Pagan (west flank maar) C 1800t . . . . . . . . . . . . x - - - - - - - x x - - - - - - - - - - North Pagan 1669 . . . . . . . . . . . . - - - - - - - - x - - - ? - - - - - - - North Pagan C 1580t . . . . . . . . . . . . - - - - - - - - x x - - - - - - - - - - North Pagan C 1350v . . . . . . . . . . . . - - - - - - - - x x - - - - - - - - - - FIGURE 3Q: ERUPTIVE HISTORY OF MOUNT PAGAN VOLCANO (Source: Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History Global Volcanism Program website) PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 4 – Social Settings 4-1ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation CHAPTER 4 SOCIAL SETTINGS 4.1 Historical Overview The Northern Mariana Islands were first settled around 1500 BCE by seafaring canoe voyagers who originated from Southeast Asia. These first settlers were the ancestors of the modern-day Chamorros, one of two indigenous ethnic groups in the Northern Marianas. The Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan arrived on the islands in 1521 and in 1565 the islands were officially claimed for Spain. In the early 1800s, another group of islanders arrived on Saipan and were granted permission by the Spanish government to settle there. These islanders were the ancestors of the modern-day Carolinians, the second indigenous group of people in the Northern Marianas. [2] [10] The Spanish period in the Northern Marianas ended in 1898, when Spain was defeated in the Spanish-American War. Spain then sold the Northern Mariana Islands to Germany. Germany administered the colony until Japan seized the islands in 1914, at the beginning of World War I. In 1919, The League of Nations awarded the islands to Japan by mandate and the Japanese administration in the Northern Marianas lasted until 1945. With the end of World War II, and the islands subsequently became part of the United Nations Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, along with other Micronesian jurisdictions. The United States administered the Trust Territory until the people of each island jurisdiction decided their future political status. [2] In June 1975, the people of the Northern Marianas voted to become a United States Commonwealth, and in 1976, the President signed into PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 4 – Social Settings 4-2ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation law the Covenant to Establish a Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands in Political Union with the United States of America. The CNMI Constitution was ratified by the people of the Northern Marianas in 1977. The islands remain a self-governing Commonwealth in political union with the United States to this day. Most U.S. federal laws apply, with limited exceptions. 4.2 Economic Development Throughout the Spanish, German, and Japanese administrations, economic development on Pagan was primarily based on subsistence fishing and horticulture, though the level of activity varied from administration to administration. [11] Copra production was a major export industry that first developed on Pagan during the Spanish era, and was expanded during the German administration. The greatest period of economic activity, however, occurred during the Japanese administration. Village development took place in the Shomushon area, where the Japanese built homes, barracks, stores, and other buildings. A small-gauge railway, a sugar mill, a rope manufacturing plant, a small sulfur mining operation, a hospital, religious shrines, cisterns and a water catchment system were also built by the Japanese. [2] During the buildup to World War II, the Japanese constructed a military base with airport facilities. Bunkers, caves, and tunnels along the coastlines were also established. Pagan supported an estimated 5,000 to 8,000 people during the war, mostly Japanese military personnel. [2] Residents on Pagan and the Northern Islands historically farm, fish, and raise livestock and chickens for subsistence. [11] Prior to the 1970’s PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 4 – Social Settings 4-3ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation most inhabitants lived in a small settlement on the north side of Laguna Lake. A movement from Laguna to Bandera occurred in the early 1970’s in order to be near the harbor. Until the 1980 eruption the habitation to a close, all residents lived at or in the vicinity of Bandera Peninsula and the former Japanese village of Shomushon. Public facilities at that time included a power plant, copra warehouse, church, dispensary, and a one-room school house. [2] Pagan Residents has relied on quarterly deliveries of supplies by cargo boats chartered by the Northern Islands Mayor’s Office to supplement their way of life. These cargo boats bring mail, clothes, food, cigarettes, fuel, alcohol, tools and other items to give or exchange with the island’s inhabitants. Records show no indication of stores on Pagan or evidence of cash exchanges among residents for goods or services. Some Pagan residents have also participated in the USDA Needy Family Food Distribution Program and its succeeding programs. Food shipments are made by field trip vessel. [2] During the November 2007 field trip conducted by EFC Engineers and Architects, Pagan residents reported receiving occasional visitors, including federal or local government delegations, tourists on cruise ships, and Coast Guard ships. They often assist these occasional visitors with tours of the island and supplies of food. Exchanges of goods take place as well. The residents indicated receiving word from the U.S. Coast Guard to expect more frequent visits to the islands, and said they were preparing for these visits by growing more agricultural produce to sell to the crew members. PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 4 – Social Settings 4-4ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation Prehistoric: Subsistence fishing and horticulture. Spanish: Subsistence fishing and horticulture (until forced removal of island’s residents to Saipan and Guam in the late 1690s); Whaling primarily by American and British whalers (1830s- 1860s). Includes shore visits for resource procurement; Copra plantation 1865-1869 (La Sociedad Agricola de la Concepcion established by George Johnson under lease agreement with Spanish government on Guam); Copra production 1888s by itinerant Carolinian workers. Copra bought by a Captain Williams, master of the ship Esmeralda. German: Copra production under land lease to Pagan Company (1899- 1914) Japanese: Copra production; Rope making; Commercial fishing Postwar: Copra production by the Northern Islands Development Company (1951-1960s); Subsistence fishing and farming by island’s resident population until island was declared off-limits following a volcanic eruption in 1981; Betel nut exports; Feral cattle and swine hunting; Commercial fishing by Saipan-based boats TABLE 4A: A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF “PEOPLE USE” OF PAGAN THROUGH EACH OF THE HISTORICAL TIME PERIODS…. (Source: Russell, Scott. 2003. A Land Use History of the Northern Islands. Unpublished report to Micronesian Environmental Services. 23 pp. ) 4.3 Population The first organized census of Pagan was taken by the Japanese administration in 1920. Between the 1920s and 1940s, the indigenous population ranged from 90 to 150. In 1925 a volcanic eruption resulted in the temporary evacuation of all Pagan residents. In the 1930s a large influx of Okinawan and Japanese nationals into Pagan occurred, and by 1940 several hundred people lived on the island. During the war, Pagan supported between 5,000 and 8,000 people, mostly Japanese military personnel. [11] PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 4 – Social Settings 4-5ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation With the exception of a small detachment of U.S. Marines stationed on Pagan in 1950, no one had lived on the island from 1945, until groups from Saipan and Agrihan migrated there in 1951. A 1954 census recorded a total of 90 residents on Pagan, 73 of whom were Chamorros and 17 of whom were Carolinians, living primarily in the lowlands west and southwest of Mount Pagan. Most of these individuals were transients from Saipan and Agrihan who were hired to harvest coconuts, and who also maintained small gardens and raised livestock. Just prior to the 1981 volcanic eruption, Pagan was inhabited by 56 residents. All 56 residents were safely evacuated from the island and permanently relocated to Saipan. Though resettling in Pagan is still not officially permitted, a few individuals have relocated to Pagan since the 1981 eruption, or intermittently reside there. [11] Because of the lack of infrastructure and public services such as healthcare and educational facilities, population figures for the Northern Islands, including Pagan, have historically been in flux. According to the US Census Bureau 2000 Update (July 10, 2001), the total population of the Northern Islands has declined from 104 persons in 1980, to 36 persons in 1990, 8 persons in 1995, and 6 persons in 2000. The Census 2000 information does not distinguish the population between the different islands within the Northern Islands Municipality. [12] Voter registration records available at the Commonwealth Election Commission, however, may be more accurate indicators of the number of people who consider the Northern Islands their permanent residence. The most recent records, dated November 1, 2007, show that 102 people registered to vote in the Northern Islands election district. Actual population figures are likely to be higher, since voter registration records do not include minors and others ineligible to vote, PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 4 – Social Settings 4-6ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation or citizens who failed to register but who would still be considered residents of the Northern Islands. No official population information exists which distinguish the population between the different islands within the Northern Islands Municipality. [13] The Northern Marianas Mayor’s Office (NIMO) estimates a total population of over 200 persons currently residing in the 10 islands of the Northern Islands Municipality, particularly Agrihan and Alamagan. NIMO also projects this figure to reach over 1,000 once basic infrastructures are established, and consistent and reliable transportation and other governmental services are in place in the Northern Islands. [15] [Source: NIMO, Meeting Notes #001] 4.4 Proposed Development Plans In 2001 the Northern Islands Mayor’s Office prepared an Economic Development Plan to guide the permanent resettlement of Pagan and the Northern Islands. The Northern Islands Development Plan seeks Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) funding and loans for the provision of essential infrastructures to assist in the resettlement and economic development of the Northern Islands. Proposed infrastructure development for Pagan includes the airport runway and terminal facilities, water, electrical power, solid waste disposal, and sewer treatment facilities, a public school, public roadways, a transportation system for passengers and cargo, a reliable communications system, port facilities, and other public facilities. [14] [15] Economic industries proposed by the Northern Islands Mayor include commercial fisheries, agriculture, aquaculture, mariculture, film and television, ecotourism and volcanic mineral mining. [14] PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 4 – Social Settings 4-7ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation Pagan is envisioned to be the future transportation hub for the Northern Islands. The lack of reliable transportation is the key for economic developments. A fleet of fishing boats regularly use Pagan as storm shelter and refueling base. Such activities indicate the potential of further economic activity and resettlements on Pagan. [Source: NIMO, Meeting Notes #007] Nature-based attractions and activities that would support ecotourism on Pagan include black sand and white sand beaches, two lakes, volcano tours, scuba diving, caves, numerous walking trails, cliff-line and deep-sea fishing, geothermal springs, and rock-climbing. In addition, the numerous cultural and historic sites on Pagan are potential tourist attractions, including prehistoric artifacts, Japanese- era shrines and monuments, the old Shomushon village, and World War II relics. NIMO sees great potential for future development of the fisheries and ecotourism industries. It was noted that NOAA has awarded $90,000 for a remote island fishing station on Alamagan island, and investors are interested in stationing a yacht in Pagan bay to provide diving tours. [Source: NIMO, Meeting Notes #001] With respect to volcanic mineral mining, the northern area of Pagan contains large quantities of pozzolan, a glassy material that was generated during the volcanic eruption of 1981. Pozzolan is used as a strengthening agent in construction materials. One private company was issued a permit to mine pozzolan on Pagan; only limited mining was conducted, however, and in 2006 the permit was terminated for repeatedly failing to abide by the permit conditions. In 2007 the CNMI government created a multi-agency task force to conduct a comprehensive feasibility and environmental impact study of pozzolan mining on Pagan. A consultant was also contracted by the PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 4 – Social Settings 4-8ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation government to evaluate the quantity and quality of the pozzolan deposits on Saipan. Initial reports indicate that the quality of Pagan pozzolan may be acceptable for commercial use. The final report has not yet been released. According to the Northern Islands Mayor, if the airstrip is restored, Pagan would be established as the transportation hub for the Northern Islands. Visitors and residents seeking to travel to any of the Northern Islands would first have to fly into Pagan, and then board vessels to the neighboring Northern Islands. This transportation scheme would also facilitate commerce among the Northern Islands communities, and between the Northern Islands and the larger population centers on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota. [Source: NIMO, Meeting Notes #001] Based on recommendations by the US Geological Survey, two programs are being implemented that would support future efforts to resettle Pagan and the Northern Islands. Seismographs are being installed and are being monitored locally to provide more accurate data of any threat of eruptions. Secondly, the CNMI government is implementing an early warning system and evacuation plans on each of the Northern Islands. [Source: NIMO, Meeting Notes #001] 4.5 Regional Setting and Land Use 4.5.1 Land Ownership All land on Pagan is publicly owned and administered by the Department of Public Lands (DPL). Establishing essential infrastructure, including transportation systems, will require the DPL to appropriate PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 4 – Social Settings 4-9ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation port areas for construction and installation of seaports and airports. The Pagan Airstrip has yet to be appropriated to the Commonwealth Ports Authority (CPA) in order for CPA to proceed with the planning, funding, and authorizing of the construction of the Pagan Airstrip. [Source: Dept. of Public Lands, Meeting Notes #003] 4.5.2 Proposed Homestead Program The Northern Islands Development Plan calls for the creation of a homestead program on Pagan that would grant residents fee simple title to land and facilitate the resettlement process. Currently, residents of Pagan do not title to any land, though some individuals and families may have claimed de-facto residency near, or on, the Pagan Airstrip boundaries. These claims must be further investigated and processed by Department of Public Lands. [Source: Dept. of Public Lands, Meeting Notes #003] Several areas on Pagan have been identified as acceptable for potential homestead designation. Although the old Shomushon village was evacuated after the 1981 eruption, the area is still considered suitable for settlement. Shomushon is located along the Bandera Peninsula and north of the Pagan Airstrip. Other suitable homestead areas that have been identified include Regusa, a fairly accessible and gently sloping land southeast of Mt. Pagan that spans approximately 400 hectares, and Marasu, located approximately four miles north of the old Shomushon village. [16] A Northern Islands Residential and Agricultural Homestead Act and the Homestead Waiver Act are currently under consideration by the CNMI legislation. NIMO advocates granting agricultural homestead to the individuals who have been continuously occupying parcels of public land in Pagan, but have not been granted homestead permits. PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 4 – Social Settings 4-10ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation [Source: NIMO, Meeting Notes #010] 4.5.3 Military Exercise Activities in the Northern Islands (Farallon de Mendinilla) The southernmost island of the Northern Islands, Farallon de Mendinilla, the closest island of the Northern Islands chain to Saipan, is presently being leased by the United States for military exercises as part of the Covenant agreement between the U.S. and the CNMI. The uninhabited 200-acre coral island is located approximately 150 miles north of Guam, 45 miles north of Saipan, and 275 miles south of Pagan Island. [1] Farallon de Medinilla is the Pacific Fleet’s only U.S.-controlled range available for live-fire training bombing exercises of the forward deployed naval forces. The target range is frequently used as a high- fidelity scenario-based target, for the purpose of training fighter pilots to develop and maintain proficiency in precision-guided arms and specific target engagement. EMO and the Office of the Governor, in conjunction with the US Naval Forces Marianas (N3) Guam, regularly issue Area Advisories to inform the general public of the schedule and dates of the US Military Unit live fire trainings on the island of Farallon De Medinilla. The general location of these live fire trainings are on Farallon De Medinilla Training Area (R7201) on a ten nautical mile radius on all quadrants. Due to the danger imposed, EMO advises the general public, especially fisherman, commercial pilots, and marine tour operators, to stay away from this area during the schedule time and dates. This information is announced on local newspapers, as well as on the EMO website. [8] PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 4 – Social Settings 4-11ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation 4.6 Proposed Developments 4.6.1 Volcano Monitoring System USGS and the CNMI Emergency Management Office have been working together on monitoring volcanoes in the CNMI since 1981. Under the Stafford Act (Public Law 93-288), the USGS has the responsibility to issue timely warnings of potential geologic disasters to the affected populace and civil authorities. The ash hazard caused by volcanoes in the CNMI affects both local and trans-pacific aviation activities, as well as military aviation activities. USGS is pursuing to install a real-time geophysical monitoring network for high-threat volcanoes including Mt. Pagan. This modern digital seismic instrumentation enables deformation monitoring (tiltmeters, GPS, tide gauges, InSAR) and up-to-date hazard assessments as outlined in the National Volcano Early Warning System. [17] NIMO has high expectations on this project, as it is necessary to assess real-time volcanic hazards for any resettlement on the island, as well as providing safety advisories of volcano and earthquake hazards and preparing evacuation procedures that would protect and foster nearby population as well as economic activities such as fishing. Unmonitored, the potential for volcanic and seismic hazards inhibits economic development and any prospective resettlement in Pagan. Vigilance is of greater importance with the planned reoccupation and ongoing resettlement of residents. [Source: NIMO, Meeting Notes #006] Since Mt. Pagan is the most active volcano in the Mariana Island Arc, as much data as possible should be collected in order to ascertain how these types of volcanoes work. [17] A continued support for PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 4 – Social Settings 4-12ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation maintaining the seismic instrumentation and data analysis is critically important in monitoring the internal state of the volcanoes in the Northern Islands. Residents are encouraged to operate portable seismographs and learn to recognize the common signals caused by earthquakes, volcanic tremor, weather conditions, cultural noise, or instrumental problems, and detection of warning signals should be communicated by radio with EMO in Saipan. Residents, in conjunction with civil authorities, should prepare safety procedures and evacuation plans. It is essential that a log of seismic activity is kept and relayed to USGS for further analysis. [18] However, despite of planning efforts by USGS and EMO, funding for this project is not in place. It reported that in 2007, CNMI government lobbied the US Congress for at least $2 million for the system. According the implementation play by USGS, full monitoring and hazard assessment will cost approximately $7 million to complete. This is to be followed by the establishment of a Marianas Volcano Observatory to maintain the monitoring network and issue warnings to the general public, with operational costs running approximately $500,000 annually. USGS requested $800,000 for fiscal year 2007 to establish a monitoring network on Pagan and complete its hazard assessment, but the US President’s FY2008 budget request didn’t include any funds for the CNMI volcano monitoring and hazard assessment. [19] 4.6.2 Pilot Studies on Geothermal Energy A former USGS scientist is leading a research team to study the possibility of producing electricity through geothermal energy of the volcano in Pagan. Pagan is the proposed site for a geothermal power PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 4 – Social Settings 4-13ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation plant. In June 2008, the Office of Insular Affairs (OIA) approved a $220,000 grant for the pilot reearch, jumpstarting this project. [20] US Department of the Interior officials met with CNMI local government on energy issues, and OIA flew to Pagan to conduct preliminary research. The team also met with CNMI Governor Fitial to discuss federal funding and various other issues, including the volcano monitoring system for the Northern Islands. [Source: NIMO, Meeting Notes #006] The research team is seeking federal assistance to finance their logistics in the remote and uninhabited volcanic islands of Pagan and Alamagan. The first step is an assessment of the geothermal potential and the cost to utilize the energy. Subsequent survey includes exploration and drilling to locate the power sources. [21] NIMO and the CNMI government have high expectations on this geothermal project to be promising as an alternative energy. CNMI government expressed that they will work closely with the US government, including its military which eyes the site for training purposes, to develop the potential of geothermal energy in Pagan Island. [22] 4.6.3 Military Relocation to Guam Plans for the U.S. military transfer from Okinawa to Guam may also involve the CNMI, including the Northern Islands. The US military conducted a survey of Pagan in 2003. However, no details of this survey or any reports are available. [Source: Dept. of Public Lands, Meeting Notes #003. Joint Guam Program Office, Meeting Notes #007] PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 4 – Social Settings 4-14ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation At an August 2007 Guam Industry Forum held in preparation for the military buildup, military planners specifically mentioned Pagan and Sarigan of the Northern Islands as possible sites for full-scale amphibious assault trainings. The use of the old Tinian airstrip was also mentioned, which may bear implications for the Pagan airstrip as well. [Source: CNMI Historic Preservation Office, Meeting Notes #005] More specific and concrete details of the military’s proposed activities for CNMI and the Northern Islands are not available. All plans are considered purely speculative at the present time. According to the Joint Guam Program Office, which is coordinating military planning efforts in the region, Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) will influence the final determination of site uses in the region. A draft EIS is not expected to be ready for review until 2009. [Source: Joint Guam Program Office, Meeting Notes #007] Massive construction expected to take place in Guam presents an opportunity to use the yet untapped resources of pozzolan on Pagan. It is expected that a major portion of the estimated $15 billion investment involves concrete construction, and the CNMI government expresses willingness to expedite the mining of pozzolan and bring the much needed revenues to the CNMI. Also, NIMO is eager to explore possibility or mining lava rocks as construction material. The lava rocks can be used as a non-skid material for road pavement, airport runways, and similar projects, as well as be used for manufacturing cement bricks and blocks for home and building construction projects. Mining of these abundant volcanic products is expected to bring revenue resources to the Northern Islands, and NIMO is urging appropriate agencies to prioritize mining projects in Pagan. [23] PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 4 – Social Settings 4-15ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation While much of the military activities are focused on Tinian, the Department of Defense is also considering using other islands for training purposes. The Marine Corps is conducting a training concept study as well as looking throughout the CNMI, as far as Pagan, to enhance its training activities. [24] Despite the military’s interest in Pagan and the Northern Islands, no definitive plans have been announced. [Source: Joint Guam Program Office, Meeting Notes #007] 4.6.4 Mariana Trench Marine National Monument The creation of a Mariana Trench Marine National Monument is being proposed by Pew Charitable Trusts and considered by the White House. Pew Charitable Trusts, a nonprofit organization dedicated to planning and evaluating public policies, has been proposing this project to the White House, and their Economic Impact report states that a decision will be made in 2008, whether or not President George Bush will consider designating the vast areas in the northernmost part of the CNMI archipelago as a marine sanctuary. [25] The proposed marine national monument is approximately 115,000 square miles, if designated, would make it the second largest marine reserve in the world, encompassing three islands of the Northern Islands: Maug, Asuncion, and Farallon de Pajaros. There are no commerce, transshipment, or other use of these islands which are preserved under the CNMI constitution to be “used only for the preservation and protection of natural resources, including but not limited to bird, wildlife, and plant species” [CNMI Constitution, Article XIV, Section 2] Since the public announcement of this proposal in March 2008, there PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 4 – Social Settings 4-16ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation have been active discussions in the local community. Opponents of the proposal argue that the prohibition of commercial fishing in the area will cause damages to the local fishing industry. It will also prevent all future extraction of minerals, gas, and oil in the region. Proponents argue that the sanctuary would lead to more recreational activities and increase in tourism, and the advantages of creating the marine monument outweigh the potential future fishing and mining value. Active discussions and presentations continue to inform the public about the proposal. The proposal is yet to be discussed by the government at federal and local levels, as well as the local community. PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 4 – Social Settings 4-17ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation Census 2000 Update (July 10, 2001) The CNMI’s total population was 69,221 persons, as of April 1, 2000, according to the US Census Bureau’s first release on the CNMI 2000 Census. By island, Saipan’s population was 62,292, Tinian’s was 3,540, Rota’s was 3,283, and the Northern Islands’ was 6 persons, as of April 1, 2000. Compared to Five Years ago, 1995 Census, the CNMI population increased by 10,375 persons (or 18 percent) from the 1995 count of 58,846 persons. By island, Saipan’s population increased by 9,694 persons (or 18 percent); the Northern Islands’declined by 2 persons (or -25 percent), from the 1995 Census. Compared to Ten Years Ago, 1990 Census, the CNMI population increased by 25,876 persons (or 60 percent) from the1990 count of 43,345 persons. By island, Saipan’s population increased by 23,496 (or 60 percent) from 38,896 in 1990; the population in the Northern Islands declined from 36 to 6 persons, a decline of 83 percent. Compared to Twenty Years Ago, 1980 Census, the CNMI population increased over three times, by 52,441 (or 313 percent) from the 1980 count of 16,780 persons. By island, Saipan’s population increased 329 percent (or over 3 times) from 14,549 in 1980; the population in the Northern Islands declined from 104 to 6 persons, a decline of 95 percent. CNMI Population by Island: 1980 to 2000 Population ISLAND 2000 1995 1990 1980 CNMI Total 6 9,221 5 8,846 4 3,345 1 6,780 Saipan 6 2,392 5 2,698 3 8,896 1 4,549 Tinian 3,540 2,631 2,118 866 Rota 3,283 3,509 2 ,295 1 ,261 Northern Islands 6 8 36 104 FIGURE 4A: CENSUS 2000 POPULATION OF CNMI US Census Bureau 2000 data does not distinguish population between the different islands of the Northern Islands Municipality. (Source: 2000 Census of Housing and Population, 1995 Census of Population and Housing, and 1990 Census of Population and Housing.) PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 4 – Social Settings 4-18ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation CNMI Voter Registration Statistics Results as of: November 1, 2007 District Village Count ED No. 1A San Antonio 780 ED No. 1B San Vicente 2417 ED No. 1C Koblerville 1029 Total 4226 District Village Count ED No. 2 Chalan Kanoa/Susupe 1160 Total 1160 District Village Count ED No. 3A Oleai 880 ED No. 3B Garapan 2340 Total 3220 District Village Count ED No. 4A Tanapag 602 ED No. 4B San Roque 528 ED No. 4C Capitol Hill 436 ED No. 4D Northern Islands 102 Total 1668 District Village Count ED No. 5 Kagman 2075 Total 2075 District Village Count ED No. 6 Tinian 1271 Total 1271 District Village Count ED No. 7 Rota 1564 Total 1564 Grand Total 15184 FIGURE 4B: Registered voters in the Northern Islands election district as of November 1, 2007 (Source: Commonwealth Election Commission) PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 4 – Social Settings 4-19ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation FIGURE 4C: EMO Area Advisory Area Advisories are issued and made available on EMO’s website to warn the general public, including commercial pilots and marine tour operators of the danger of live fire training in the designated military training area. (Source: Emergency Management Office website) PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 4 – Social Settings 4-20ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation FIGURE 4D: Pew Charitable Trust’s Proposed Mariana Trench Marine National Monument (Source: Economic Impact Study, Pew Charitable Trusts) PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 4 – Social Settings 4-21ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation (INSERT FIGURES HERE) PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-1 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation CHAPTER 5 EXISTING CONDITIONS 5.1 General This chapter documents the general conditions and existing facilities of the Pagan Airstrip. The background section provides a brief historical overview of the airstrip. The inventory section identifies the existing physical conditions. This chapter also describes infrastructure limitations on Pagan which may constrain future economic development and aviation demand, and restrict the extent to which the Pagan Airstrip and associated facilities can be expanded. 5.2 Historical Background The construction of the Pagan Airstrip and its supporting installations began during the Japanese era, around 1935, as Japan was preparing for war. An estimated 200 Japanese and 400 - 500 indigenous residents from surrounding islands were brought to Pagan to initiate construction of the airstrip and supporting facilities in the basin just south of Mount Pagan, near the Bandera Peninsula and the old village of Shomushon. [25] In 1937, the Japanese military took over the construction and built a military base and a complex airfield with rainwater drainage ditches, water storage cisterns, bunkers, pillboxes, and defense guns. [25] On EFC’s field survey, a local resident described a hangar was also carved into the escarpment cliff face, and was destroyed in the 1970s. Except for handwritten notes by Shin’ichi Kameoka, a surviving Japanese Navy officer who was stationed at the military base in Pagan during World War II, most documentation on Japanese military activities does not exist today. PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-2 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation Official documents relating to the Pagan military base were maintained and kept at the headquarters for the Japanese Central Pacific Fleet located in Garapan, Saipan, and were completely destroyed during bombings followed by landings by the U.S. Marines, and severe ground battles. [25] The Japanese navy officer’s notes describe the Pagan military base as follows: Outline of Japanese Military Base in Pagan: 1. Airfield: Total area 80,000 square meters. North-south length 600 meters, East-west length 730 meters. 2. Hangars: 10 zero fighters were housed. 3. Naval Barracks: 4 buildings 4. Fuel Storage and Arsenal: Dugout at escarpment. 200 drums of fuel tanks were stored. 5. Air Raid Shelters: Two concrete bunkers built at west of airfield. Housed about 20 persons each. Other shelters were carved into the escarpment. 6. Cut and flatten peak of Bandera Peninsula 7. Dock: 30-meters length at Bandera Lagoon According to the same notes, the runway was approximately 2,000 feet long and 170 feet wide. The west end of the facility was on fill, as much as 15 feet thick, and the eastern end cut into lava flow with excavations up to 20 feet deep. Concrete drainage ditches were built on either side of the runway and were utilized for water catchment, but these facilities have since been destroyed. (Figure 5-G) [4] [25] During World War II, U.S. fighter planes bombed Pagan, severely destroying the airstrip and Japanese fortifications, as well as the Shomushon village and harbor. The bombings started in June 1944, and succeeded in completely destroying most facilities of the Japanese military base within 48 hours. The U.S. Navy continued frequent aerial bombings for 14 months until the PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-3 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation surrender by the Japanese Empire in August 1945. The massive bombing raids by formations of about 15 to 30 fighter planes dropped an estimated 400 tons of bombs and many incendiary bombs. This scarred the airstrip making it almost unusable, and many bomb craters still mark the existing runway. [25] In the 1960s, Pagan residents and American Peace Corps volunteers took on the task of repairing the airstrip. In 1970, US Air Force Civic Action Team, “Prime Beef” (Prime Base Engineer Emergency Force) rebuilt the runway. The bomb craters were repaired and the runway was given a smooth surface of crushed volcanic rock. During the reconstruction, which lasted almost a year, the team built a headquarters building, latrine buildings, a generator station, and a plumbing system. None of these temporary structures exist today. [11] The 1981 eruption of Mt. Pagan covered nearly half of the airstrip with lava. The existing runway measures approximately 1,900 feet in length. Photo 5-A: Aerial view of Pagan Airstrip from southeast. The grass-covered runway of the existing portion of the runway is highlighted in this photograph. The runway starts by the edge of the black sand beach at the Bandera Peninsula, and is abruptly terminated by the lava flow at the west end. PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-4 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation c. 1935 Japanese colonists began construction of airport c. 1937 Japanese military began construction of naval base 1945 Japan’s surrender of WWII 1947 Mariana Islands became part of the US Trust Territory 1967 Pagan residents and Peace Corps volunteers cleared the airstrip for the first touchdown since 1944 1970 US Air Force Civic Action Team “Prime Beef” rebuilt and extended the runway from 1,200 to 3,000 feet 1978 CNMI entered into a Commonwealth arrangement in political union with the United States 1981 Mt. Pagan erupted and lava flow partially covered the airstrip leaving approximately 1,600 ft runway length FIGURE 5A: TIMELINE OF EVENTS FIGURE 5B: Preliminary Geologic Map of Mt. Pagan Volcano: The most recent lava flow in 1881 is shown in red. The pink and orange represent older lava flows in 1925 and 1873, respectively. The gray color shows a fill which follows the outline of the Japanese military base. [Source: USGS Preliminary Geologic Map of Mount Pagan Volcano, 2006] PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-5 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI 5.3 Inventory and Description of Existing Airstrip Facilities 5.3.1 Description of Existing Airstrip Today the Pagan Airstrip is a grassy strip extending approximately 1,900 feet long and 120 feet wide, bearing South 69°49’15” East. The conditions of the airstrip are continuously deteriorating and have undergone only minor repairs since the 1981 eruption. Cattle and goats are commonly seen grazing on the airstrip, which keeps the grass somewhat under control. Pagan residents will also occasionally trim the grass when there is fuel available for their grass cutters. Otherwise, there is no regular maintenance of the runway. The width of the existing clearance is approximately 250 feet. The main strip measures at a width of approximately 56 feet, and at a length of approximately 1,900 feet. The runway slopes up significantly from west to the east. At the west end of the runway is an abrupt drop off to the beach, approximately 20 feet deep. See Photos 5-E, 5-H. The east end of the runway is interrupted by the lava flow, which abruptly rises to a height of approximately 15-20 feet. The lava is of a type known as aa, a slow-moving flow that solidifies in loose, sharp, and brittle chunks. Pockets of grass, ironwood (Casuarina sp.) trees, and fern-like plants were observed within the lava flow. See Photos 5-L, 5-M, 5-N. The runway is grassy, with short shrubs and ironwood trees all along the sides. The surface is irregular, with potholes and thick patches of Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-6 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-7 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation grass. There is a low berm on each side of the runway, as well as old bomb craters of varying depths, as deep as approximately 7 feet. 5.3.2 FAA Airport Master Record of TT01 Pagan Airstrip is listed by FAA as a public airport located near the village of Shomushon. FAA assigned the Location Identifier of Pagan Airstrip as TT01. The current FAA Airport Master Record (Effective Date: October 25, 2007) contains information collected during the last inspection in September 1980. According to the FAA Airport Master Record, for a 12-month period ending September 26, 1980, Pagan Airstrip had 240 aircraft operations: 79% air taxi and 21% general aviation. Air taxi is defined Figure 5C: Pagan Airstrip, listed as as a chartered aircraft, and more broadly as a part of general aviation, Location Identifier TT01 by FAA which refers to all flights other than military and scheduled airline flights. The regional control facility is Honolulu Control Facility Center, and flight service station is Honolulu Flight Service Station. NOTAMs (“Notice To Airmen” aeronautical information and alerts) are provided by Honolulu Airport. 5.3.3 Non-existence of Other Facilities The grass-covered airstrip is the only functional element of the existing Pagan Airstrip. There are no existing public utilities on the island. No terminal facilities are present at the site, nor any navigational aids, visual approach aids, runway markings, lights, windsocks, or signage. An existing trail, utilizing the old Japanese road system, is in fair condition and serves as an access road to the airstrip. Drums of fuel are stored at the edge of the airstrip. PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-8 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation Historical aviation facilities include old hangars, maintenance buildings, and bunkers, built by the Japanese military, of which a few remain scattered within the boundaries of the old Japanese military airport, all in deteriorated state. Remains of hardstands on both the north and south of the runway, taxiways and hangars, and ditches along the north and west that drain to cisterns in the northwest are present. Figure 5-G graphically depicts the inventory of the existing remains in the surrounding areas of the Pagan Airstrip. PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-9 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation FIGURE 5D: AIRPORT MASTER RECORD OF TT01 PAGAN AIRSTRIP PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI FAA Location Identifier Location/Facility/Hours Ident Tie-In Fac Cntr PAGAN AIRSTRIP ARPT, SHOMU-SHON, CQ TT01 HNL ZHN FIGURE 5E: FAA INTERNATIONAL CIVIL AVIATION ORGANIZATION (ICAO) LOCATION IDENTIFIER: The ICAO location Identifier of Pagan Airstrip is listed by FAA NAS Aeronautical Information Management Enterprise System (NAIMES) as above. The PilotWeb site provides aeronautical information and access to current NOTAM information derived from the United States Consolidated NOTAM Office at the FAA Air Traffic Control Systems Command Center in Herndon Virginia. (Source: FAA website) Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-10 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI FIGURE 5F: CRM MAP OF PAGAN AIRSTRIP (Source: CNMI Costal Resources Management) Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-11 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-12 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation FIGURE 5-G: DIAGRAM OF HISTORICAL REMAINS PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-13 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation Photo 5-B: Aerial view of runway. Numerous bomb craters remain along the side of the runway. Photo 5-C: Aerial view of runway. PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-14 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation Photo 5-C: Aerial view of runway. Photo 5-E: Runway west end looking towards northwest and Bandera Peninsula. The ground drops abruptly to the black sand beach at the west end of the runway PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-15 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation Photo 5-F: View of entire length of existing runway facing east, towards the lava flow. Photo 5-G: View of entire length of existing runway looking towards west. PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-16 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation Photo 5-H: Bandera Peninsula and black sand beach to the west of runway. The Japanese military cut and flattened the peak of the peninsula. Photo 5-I: Bandera Peninsula was cut and flattened by Japanese military. PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-17 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation Photo 5-J: Escarpment along south side of the airstrip. Photo 5-K: Numerous bomb craters over entire airfield. Only the runway portion was restored to usable condition. PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-18 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation Photo 5-L: The lava flow abruptly interrupts the runway at the west. Photo 5-M: Lava flow covers about 3/5 of the proposed property. PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-19 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation Photo 5-N: The lava flow covering the runway is of a type known as aa, a slow- moving flow that solidifies in loose, sharp, and brittle chunks. Photo 5-O: Old lava stratum is exposed at the drop off along the west edge of the runway. The lava of this stratum appears to be a different type called pahoehoe, which is smooth and liquid, which has cooled and crystallized into a solid mass. PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-20 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation Photo 5-P: Japanese concrete bunker near the east side of the runway. Photo 5-Q: Japanese concrete bunker near the east side of the runway. PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-21 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation Photo 5-R: Japanese water tank. Photo 5-S: Japanese airplane ruin remains at the west end of the runway. Bomb crater is visible in the foreground of this photograph. PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-22 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation Photo 5-T: Japanese machine gun ruin remains at north of airstrip. Photo 5-U: Japanese zero fighter ruin remains at south of airstrip surrounded by bomb craters. PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI 5.4 Existing Infrastructure and Limitations of Future Development Like the rest of the Northern Islands, Pagan has received minimal infrastructure development in the last three decades. Limited infrastructure necessarily imposes a constraint on future economic development, aviation demand, and the extent to which the Pagan Airstrip and associated facilities can be developed. Future economic development for the island will depend on improvements to utilities as well as improvements to inter-island and intra-island transportation facilities. There are no ongoing or future plans for any critical infrastructure improvements on Pagan Island. During the 5-year projected period, the CNMI government does not appear to have funds to conduct infrastructure improvements throughout the CNMI, which includes Saipan, Tinian, Rota Islands, as well as the entire Northern Islands Municipality. The following is a summary of the existing infrastructure on Pagan: • No potable running water. Pagan residents rely on rainwater catchments which provide water for cooking and drinking; the water must be boiled before it is consumed. Wells supply water for bathing. • No power distribution system. For basic electricity, Pagan residents have relied on generators and solar panels installed on the roofs of their homes. The solar panels charge batteries for minimal lighting and radio communications. • No sanitary sewer system, nor any other wastewater disposal facilities. Pagan residents rely on outdoor latrines. • No solid waste disposal facilities. Pagan residents dispose of paper and yard wastes by burning; all other solid wastes are stored and Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-23 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-24 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation then removed during quarterly visits by cargo ships for eventual disposal at the Marpi Landfill on Saipan. • No seaport or docking area for ships and boats. • No reliable communications system. • No healthcare facilities and public safety services. • No public roadways and ground transportation systems. Inland roads are nonexistent and limited only to walking trails. Residents also travel by all-terrain vehicles. Most of the existing paths and trails are remnants of the roads built by the Japanese. The roads were constructed as one-lane loose-surface grade, all-weather roads. Due to lack of maintenance, these roads have deteriorated into trails. To support economic development, there will be a need to improve the roads, including grading, compacting of the existing system, drainage improvements, and realignment. The existing dock at Shomushon Harbor was constructed by the Japanese prior to World War II. It has since been in a state of disrepair, making it impossible for vessels other than shallow draft boats to land. Presently, vessels anchor in the deeper parts of the Harbor. There is a need to repair or reconstruct the existing dock and construct a port for future development and commercial activities to take place. Also, during tropical storms and typhoons, it will be necessary to secure vessels on land. The proximity of the seaport and airport to one another must also be considered in the planning process. The two transportation resources could be designed to integrate their cargo/passengers to allow smooth transitions from air to sea and vice versa. Should any future planning PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 5 Existing Conditions 5-25 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation for developing the harbor arise, it is may be considered in conjunction with the development of the airstrip. Grass Runway as of today. Lava flow has cut the runway length. Extent of the Pagan Airfield Area FIGURE 5H: AERIAL VIEW OF PAGAN AIRSTRIP FIGURE 5I: PARCEL SURVEY PLAT OF PAGAN AIRSTRIP PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 6 – Aviation Forecast 6-1 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITARCHITARCHITARCHITECTSECTSECTSECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation CHAPTER 6 AVIATION FORECASTS 6.1 Overview of Aviation Forecasts and Scope Forecasts of future levels of aviation activity are used to guide airport planning and decision-making. Forecasts should be realistic, based upon the latest available data, be supported by information in the study, and provide sufficient justification for airport planning and development. For the purposes of the Pagan Airstrip Master Plan, it was intended that only existing forecasts, if any, and past aviation activities would be used along with data gathered during public involvement interviews in order to arrive at a reasonable aviation forecast that would guide planning and development for the Pagan Airstrip. Formal forecasts utilizing complex forecasting tools and techniques, including peak period forecasts, are not deemed necessary for this master plan because of the factors that limit aviation demand and the extent to which the airport can be developed. These limiting factors include the lack of basic infrastructure on Pagan, the limited availability of land, and continued volcanic activity on Pagan Island. 6.2 Historical Aviation Data Charter flights to Pagan and the other Northern Islands began in the late 1980s and continue today. From the 1980s to 2000, flight service to the Northern Islands was provided by one company, Macaw Helicopters. Macaw Helicopters was bought out by Americopters in PAGAN AIRSTRIP MASTER PLAN Pagan, Northern Islands, CNMI Chapter 6 – Aviation Forecast 6-2 ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ENGINEERS • ARCHITARCHITARCHITARCHITECTSECTSECTSECTS Corporation Corporation Corporation Corporation 2000, and Americopters is the only company that provides flight service to the