2020 JAN. 26, 2020–FEB. 12, 2021
Eskaleran Pulan Chamorro Refaluwasch Pápáál Maram
Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council
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3 Participants from Tinian attend bottomfish training on Tinian [1–3]. Lino Tenorio goes over his presentation [4] while a participant examines bottomfish gear on Saipan [5]. PHOTOS: FLOYD MASGA / MARCY TENORIO
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In June 2017, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) Department of Lands and Natural Resources (DLNR) completed a threeyear Marine Conservation Plan (MCP), in collaboration with the Council, that lists several fishery-related conservation and management objectives. Various sources of funds combine to fund projects that meet objectives in the MCP, one of which is to promote responsible domestic fisheries development to provide long term economic growth and stability and local food production. Tenorio & Associates received a MCP community grant to teach local fishers about bottomfishing basics like gear type, types of bait, vessel use and GPS navigation. Lino Tenorio is an active bottomfisherman who shared his many years of experience fishing within CNMI waters with workshop participants, describing his successes and his challenges with issues ranging from natural disasters to marketing.
Umagahaf ‹›Tumur 26 SUN
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30 THU
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February
January
Sinahi Uno • Sighauru
January 26–February 24, 2020
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16 SUN
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Osáláng
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01:14 12:54 N
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18 TUE
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02:11 13:44 N
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03:07 14:37 N
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Hinecog • Arofú
Afánágh
20 THU
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Moon-related Observations & Activities Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council WPCouncil.org
The Council’s US Pacific Island Fisheries Capacity-Building Scholarship Program was initiated in 2015 to address a lack of local capacity in fisheries science and management in the US Pacific Islands of American Samoa, CNMI and Guam. This program provides unique and rigorous educational programs and opportunities in marine science and fisheries and has allowed the territories’ local programs to grow. Scholarship recipients Keena Leon Guerrero (at left) and Carey Demapan (above) from CNMI have both graduated from Hawai‘i universities and returned to work at the CNMI Division of Fish & Wildlife (DFW). “This program has definitely bridged the gap for our CNMI scholars so that they can return to join our workforce. It has been a constant priority of this administration to cultivate the current and next generation’s interest in coming back to serve our islands, build our economy, and protect our environment. I sincerely thank the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council for their support and diligence in giving students the opportunity to sustain our local practices and our fisheries,” said CNMI Gov. Ralph DLG Torres. Scholarship recipient Keena Leon Guerrero (center) with Council staff Floyd Masga (left) and DLNR Secretary Tony Benavente (right).
Look for the 2020–2021 scholarship application on the Council website in early 2020: WPCouncil.org
Tumaiguini ‹›Méél 25 TUE
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Mesóól
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09:26 22:03 N
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29 SAT
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March
February
Sinahi Uno • Sighauru
February 25–March 24, 2020
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10:02 22:50 N
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10:41 23:39 N
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10 TUE
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07:37 20:05 N
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Henemhom Dos Ghiney
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08:24 21:06 N
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13 FRI
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09:11 22:06 N
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09:59 23:05 N
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15 SUN
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01:02 12:33 N
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01:57 13:27 N
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19 THU
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02:49 14:20 N
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20 FRI
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Moon-related Observations & Activities Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council WPCouncil.org
Saipan recently received and installed a new ice machine at the Garapan Public Market through a collaboration involving Gov. Ralph DLG Torres and Lt. Gov. Arnold Palacios’s Fishery Development Plan (under the Marine Conservation Plan) for CNMI, the Council and CNMI DLNR. The long-awaited machine, which can produce 980 pounds of high-quality flake ice/day, was purchased by a Sustainable Fisheries Funds grant from funds provided by the Hawai‘i Longline Association per the bigeye tuna fishing agreements.
This ice machine will help the community and the Garapan Public Market maintain the quality of produce, fish and value-added products to be sold. The added advantage for this location is that fishers and the public will have easier access from the Garapan Fishing Base launching ramp to purchase ice for their coolers and fish boxes. Above: Department of Lands and Natural Resources Secretary Tony Benavente (center) and community members test out out the Garapan Public Market’s new ice machine.
Maimo ‹› Máilap 25
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26 THU
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08:02 20:46 N
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Mesóól
28 SAT
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Mesáfúú
08:40 21:35 N
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29 SUN
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Mesáwan
09:20 22:25 N
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30
MON 6
R S
Mesátiw
10:04 23:17 N
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31 TUE
Emetan
Kuåtto Presente Eschúw
April
March
Sinahi Uno • Sighauru
March 25–April 23, 2020
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03:46 15:41 N
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MON 6
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Gualåfon Umang Emmasch
04:36 16:43 N
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7
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05:23 17:44 N
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Gualåfon • Úúr
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06:57 19:47 N
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Henemhom Dos Ghiney
10 FRI
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07:46 20:49 N
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11 SAT
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08:36 21:51 N
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Sópásch
12 SUN
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6
Arosa
09:29 22:51 N
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13
MON 6
S R
10:24 23:50 N
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3 2 1 0 -1
Kuåtto Menguante Arosan Efnágh
14 TUE
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11:19 N
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Sópásch Me Emwiir
15
WE D 6
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00:44 12:14 N
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Osáláng
16 THU
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01:34 13:08 N
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17 FRI
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Schomwan Fán
02:20 14:00 N
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18 SAT
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03:02 14:49 N
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Hinecog • Arofú
Afánágh
19 SUN
6
R S
03:40 15:37 N
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20
MON 6
R S
04:17 16:23 N
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Eyú
21 TUE
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Efeng
04:52 17:09 N
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22
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05:27 17:55 N
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23 THU
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Moon-related Observations & Activities Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council WPCouncil.org
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Traditional navigation [1], shallow bottomfishing [2, 3], Mina Beach cleanup [4], Northern Marianas College (NMC) aquaculture [5], fish identification in the classroom [6], Micronesian Environmental Services’s John Gourley presents to students [7], food safety at the Marianas Trade Institute [8] and student sample collection with NMC aquaculture [9]. PHOTOS: JOSHUA VILLAGOMEZ
The Council sponsors the annual Saipan High School Summer Fisheries Course coordinated by Joshua Villagomez and instructed by Glenn Policare, Floyd Masga, Larry Lee, Larry Guerrero, Roberta Guerrero, John Gourley, Emma and Pete Perez and Gina Tomokani. This survey course introduces a broad range of subjects including fish biology and habitat, coral reefs, Red Cross CPR certification, marine preserves/sanctuaries, fishery data, cultural and traditional fishing canoe sailing and canoe management skills, fish cleaning and preparation, fisheries conservation and management, fisheries economics and marketing, fishing gear and techniques, fisheries research, fishery regulations and statutes, marine debris, fishery enforcement and seafood safety.
Check out the Council website in Spring 2020 to find information about the Summer 2020 program, WPCouncil.org.
Umatalaf ‹› Séétá 24 FRI
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6
06:40 19:32 N
6
Sinahi Dos • Eling
25 SAT
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6
07:19 20:22 N
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Sinahi Tres • Meseling
26 SUN
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6
08:02 21:14 N
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Mesóól
27
MON 6
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Mesáfúú
08:48 22:07 N
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28 TUE
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6
Mesáwan
09:39 23:01 N
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29
WED 6
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Mesátiw
10:33 23:55 N
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30 THU
Emetan
Kuåtto Presente Eschúw
May
April
Sinahi Uno • Sighauru
April 24–May 23, 2020
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6
11:30 N
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FRI
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00:47 12:28 N
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01:39 13:28 N
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S R
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02:27 14:27 N
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3 2 1 0 -1
Arobwoghúw
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MON 6
S R
03:14 15:26 N
6
Olobwuwey
5
TUE
S R
6
03:59 16:26 N
6
Olomwaay
6
WE D 6
S R
Gualåfon Umang Emmasch
04:45 17:26 N
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7
THU
S R
6
05:32 18:28 N
6
Gualåfon • Úúr
8
FRI
S R
6
06:21 19:31 N
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Henemhon Uno Letiw
9
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S R
6
07:14 20:33 N
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Henemhom Dos Ghiney
10 SUN
S R
6
08:09 21:35 N
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Henemhon Tres • Ara
11
MON 6
S R
09:06 22:33 N
6
Sópásch
12 TUE
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6
Arosa
10:03 23:27 N
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13
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WED 6
10:59 N
6
3 2 1 0 -1
Kuåtto Menguante Arosan Efnágh
14 THU
6
R S
00:16 11:53 N
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Sópásch Me Emwiir
15 FRI
6
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01:00 12:44 N
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Osáláng
16 SAT
6
R S
Emwalú
01:40 13:33 N
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17 SUN
6
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Schomwan Fán
02:17 14:20 N
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18
MON 6
R S
02:53 15:06 N
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Hinecog • Arofú
Afánágh
19 TUE
6
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03:28 15:52 N
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20
WED 6
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04:03 16:38 N
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Eyú
21 THU
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Efeng
04:39 17:26 N
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22 FRI
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R S
Ascaif
05:18 18:16 N
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23 SAT
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06:00 19:09 N
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Moon-related Observations & Activities Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council WPCouncil.org
The CNMI has a unique and beautiful natural heritage, but these natural treasures are at risk of continued degradation. The Micronesia Islands Nature Alliance (MINA) is a community-based, nonprofit organization that was formed by a group of dedicated, compassionate people that felt the need to promote and advocate for the protection and restoration of the natural resources in the Northern Mariana Islands. Using Marine Conservation Plan funds, MINA created the Tasi Watch Program that recruits local young adults to serve as Rangers to raise community environmental awareness and monitor sites around Saipan for environmental violations.
MINA volunteers cleaned beaches on Saipan following the devastation wrought by Super Typhoon Yutu that struck Saipan and Tinian on October 25, 2018. Inset: Included among the debris cleared were corrugated steel sheeting torn off buildings as a result of the 180 mph winds. PHOTOS: MINA STAFF
Lumuhu ‹›Naa 24 SUN
R S
6
06:45 20:03 N
6
Sinahi Dos • Eling
25
MON 6
R S
07:35 20:57 N
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Sinahi Tres • Meseling
26 TUE
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6
08:29 21:52 N
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Mesóól
27
WED 6
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Mesáfúú
09:25 22:45 N
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28 THU
R S
6
Mesáwan
10:23 23:36 N
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29 FRI
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6
Mesátiw
11:21 N
6
30 SAT
S R
6
Emetan
00:24 12:19 N
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31 SUN
Kuåtto Presente Eschúw
June
May
Sinahi Uno • Sighauru
May 24 – June 21, 2020
S R
6
01:10 13:17 N
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1
MON 6
S R
01:54 14:14 N
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Epey
2
TUE
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02:38 15:12 N
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3 2 1 0 -1
Arobwoghúw
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WE D 6
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03:23 16:11 N
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Olobwuwey
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THU
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6
04:09 17:12 N
6
Olomwaay
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FRI
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6
Gualåfon Umang Emmasch
04:59 18:14 N
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6
SAT
S R
6
05:53 19:16 N
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Gualåfon • Úúr
7
SUN
S R
6
06:49 20:17 N
6
Henemhon Uno Letiw
Henemhom Dos Ghiney
8
9
MON 6
S R
07:47 21:14 N
6
TUE
S R
6
08:45 22:07 N
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Henemhon Tres • Ara
10
WED 6
S R
09:41 22:54 N
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Sópásch
11 THU
S R
6
Arosa
10:35 23:36 N
6
12 FRI
6
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11:26 N
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3 2 1 0 -1
Kuåtto Menguante Arosan Efnágh
13 SAT
6
R S
00:15 12:14 N
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Sópásch Me Emwiir
14 SUN
6
R S
00:52 13:00 N
6
Osáláng
15
MON 6
R S
Emwalú
01:27 13:46 N
6
16 TUE
6
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Schomwan Fán
02:02 14:33 N
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17
WED 6
R S
02:38 15:20 N
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18 THU
6
R S
03:15 16:09 N
Eyú
Hinecog • Arofú
Afánágh
6
19 FRI
6
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03:56 17:01 N
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20 SAT
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Ascaif
04:40 17:55 N
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21 SUN
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05:29 18:50 N
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Moon-related Observations & Activities Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council WPCouncil.org
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1 The CNMI Division of Fish & Wildlife (DFW) within DLNR is responsible for the protection of fish, game and endangered and threatened species. For many years, DFW collected data volunÂtarily provided by various persons and business entities in the seafood trade. The data included information on fish harvested for commercial and retail sale (i.e., fish species, and weight and length measurements), which are needed for the division to adequately monitor and report annual catch, record trends and implement sustainable management plans. However, resource managers found that, in the last few years, stakeholders have become reluctant to voluntarily submit this information. DFW held public meetings on Saipan [1], Tinian [2, 3], and Rota [4] to discuss this issue. The public provided comments in favor of data regulations and other changes. 4
Makmamao ‹›Ghúúw 22
MO N 6
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06:22 19:46 N
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Sinahi Dos • Eling
23 TUE
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6
07:18 20:40 N
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08:17 21:33 N
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Mesóól
25 THU
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Mesáfúú
09:16 22:22 N
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26 FRI
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Mesáwan
10:15 23:09 N
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27 SAT
R S
6
Mesátiw
11:12 23:53 N
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28 SUN
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6
Emetan
12:09 N
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29
MON 6
S R
Kuåtto Presente Eschúw
00:37 13:05 N
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30 TUE
Epey
July
June
Sinahi Uno • Sighauru
June 22 – July 21, 2020
S R
6
01:19 14:02 N
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1
WED 6
S R
02:04 15:00 N
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3 2 1 0 -1
Arobwoghúw
2
THU
S R
6
02:51 16:00 N
6
Olobwuwey
3
FRI
S R
6
03:42 17:01 N
6
Olomwaay
4
SAT
S R
6
Gualåfon Umang Emmasch
04:36 18:02 N
6
5
SUN
S R
6
05:32 19:01 N
6
Gualåfon • Úúr
6
MON 6
S R
06:31 19:55 N
6
Henemhon Uno Letiw
Henemhom Dos Ghiney
7
8
TUE
S R
6
07:28 20:45 N
6
WED 6
S R
08:23 21:30 N
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Henemhon Tres • Ara
9
THU
S R
6
09:16 22:11 N
6
Sópásch
10 FRI
S R
6
Arosa
10:06 22:49 N
6
11 SAT
S R
6
10:54 23:25 N
6
3 2 1 0 -1
Kuåtto Menguante Arosan Efnágh
12 SUN
6
S R
11:40 00:00 N
6
Sópásch Me Emwiir
13
MON 6
S
12:26 N
6
Osáláng
14 TUE
6
R S
Emwalú
00:35 13:13 N
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15
WED 6
R S
Schomwan Fán
01:12 14:01 N
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16 THU
6
R S
01:51 14:51 N
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Hinecog • Arofú
Afánágh
17 FRI
6
R S
02:33 15:44 N
6
18 SAT
6
R S
03:20 16:39 N
6
Eyú
19 SUN
6
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Efeng
04:11 17:35 N
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20
MON 6
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Ascaif
05:07 18:32 N
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21 TUE
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Moon-related Observations & Activities Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council WPCouncil.org
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The Mariana Islands Fishing and Seafood Festival is a gathering place to bring health and environÂmental awareness to our community. The primary goal is to highlight the abundance and freshness of our ocean resources, the health benefits of eating fresh seafood and promote the preservation of our ocean environment for future generations. Several agencies attended the festival to share environmental conservation and management information, including the Council, the DFW and the Bureau of Environmental and Coastal Quality.
7 The 3rd annual Mariana Islands Fishing and Seafood Festival, hosted by KKMP radio personality Gary Sword, 2019. [1] JD Tenorio and Crew with their winning catch. [2] DFW Data Manager Jude Lizama collects data. [3, 5] Hyatt Regency Saipan prepares their winning dish for the poki contest. [4] Local entertainers pose with the Council banner. [6] Lt. Gov. Arnold Palacios with event organizer Gary Sword. [7] Local spearfishermen display their catch.
Mananaf ‹›Uul July
Sinahi Uno • Sighauru
22
WE D 6
R S
07:06 20:17 N
6
Sinahi Dos • Eling
23 THU
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6
08:07 21:06 N
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Sinahi Tres • Meseling
24 FRI
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6
09:06 21:52 N
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July 22 – August 19, 2020
Mesóól
25 SAT
R S
6
Mesáfúú
10:04 22:36 N
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26 SUN
R S
6
Mesáwan
11:01 23:19 N
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27
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MON 6
Mesátiw
11:57 N
6
28 TUE
S R
6
Emetan
00:03 12:55 N
6
29
WED 6
S R
Kuåtto Presente Eschúw
00:48 13:53 N
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30 THU
S R
6
01:37 14:53 N
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Epey
31 FRI
S R
6
02:28 15:52 N
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3 2 1 0 -1
August
Arobwoghúw
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SAT
S R
6
03:23 16:51 N
6
Olobwuwey
2
SUN
S R
6
04:20 17:46 N
6
Olomwaay
3
MON 6
S R
Gualåfon Umang Emmasch
05:17 18:37 N
6
4
TUE
S R
6
06:13 19:24 N
6
Gualåfon • Úúr
5
WED 6
S R
07:06 20:06 N
6
Henemhon Uno Letiw
Henemhom Dos Ghiney
6
7
THU
S R
6
07:58 20:45 N
6
FRI
S R
6
08:46 21:22 N
6
Henemhon Tres • Ara
8
SAT
S R
6
09:33 21:58 N
6
Sópásch
9
SUN
S R
6
Arosa
10:20 22:33 N
6
10
MON 6
S R
11:06 23:08 N
6
3 2 1 0 -1
Kuåtto Menguante Arosan Efnágh
11 TUE
6
S R
11:53 23:46 N
6
Sópásch Me Emwiir
12
WE D 6
S
12:42 N
6
Osáláng
13 THU
6
R S
Emwalú
00:26 13:33 N
6
14 FRI
6
R S
Schomwan Fán
01:10 14:26 N
6
15 SAT
6
R S
01:59 15:21 N
6
Hinecog • Arofú
Afánágh
16 SUN
6
R S
02:53 16:18 N
6
17
MON 6
R S
03:50 17:13 N
6
Eyú
18 TUE
6
R S
Ascaif
04:51 18:07 N
6
19
WED 6
R S
05:52 18:57 N
6
3 2 1 0 -1
Moon-related Observations & Activities Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council WPCouncil.org
The Saipan International Fishing Tournament organized by the Saipan Fishermen’s Association (SFA) is the longest-running fishing tournament in the region. SFA is committed to programs that promote fishing as a cultural and traditional activity and as important to the economic development of the CNMI. SFA fosters public outreach and educational programs on safe boating and responsible fishing in CNMI and Micronesia through cooperatives and other ventures. The Council and other agencies have partnered and supported the tournament for many years by providing outreach materials, funding and staff. In 2019, the Council sponsored an advertisement in the 35th Annual Booklet and SFA’s new quarterly magazine, the Marianas Pond. The tournament had 76 participants (20 from Guam). The heaviest fish caught was a 462-pound billfish, which was landed by Aquaholics, captained by Tony Flores and crewed by Louie Manibusan and John Castro.
Semo ‹› Ehiyél August
Sinahi Uno • Sighauru
20 THU
R S
6
06:53 19:45 N
6
Sinahi Dos • Eling
21 FRI
R S
6
07:53 20:31 N
6
August 20–September 17, 2020
Sinahi Tres • Meseling
22 SAT
R S
6
08:52 21:16 N
6
Mesóól
23 SUN
R S
6
Mesáfúú
09:51 22:00 N
6
24
MON 6
R S
Mesáwan
10:49 22:46 N
6
25 TUE
R S
6
Mesátiw
11:48 23:33 N
6
26
R
WED 6
Emetan
12:48 N
6
27 THU
S R
6
Kuåtto Presente Eschúw
00:24 13:47 N
6
28 FRI
S R
6
01:18 14:45 N
6
Epey
29 SAT
S R
6
02:14 15:41 N
6
3 2 1 0
Arobwoghúw
30 SUN
S R
6
03:10 16:32 N
6
Olobwuwey
31
MON 6
Olomwaay
Gualåfon Umang Emmasch
September
-1
S R
04:06 17:20 N
6
1
TUE
S R
6
05:00 18:03 N
6
2
WED 6
S R
05:51 18:43 N
6
Gualåfon • Úúr
3
THU
S R
6
06:40 19:21 N
6
Henemhon Uno Letiw
Henemhom Dos Ghiney
4
5
FRI
S R
6
07:28 19:56 N
6
SAT
S R
6
08:15 20:31 N
6
Henemhon Tres • Ara
6
SUN
S R
6
09:01 21:06 N
6
Sópásch
7
MON 6
S R
Arosa
09:47 21:43 N
6
8
TUE
6
S R
10:35 22:22 N
6
3 2 1 0 -1
Kuåtto Menguante Arosan Efnágh
9
WED 6
S R
11:25 23:04 N
6
Sópásch Me Emwiir
10 THU
6
S R
12:16 23:50 N
6
Osáláng
11 FRI
6
S
Emwalú
13:10 N
6
12 SAT
6
R S
Schomwan Fán
00:40 14:04 N
6
13 SUN
6
R S
01:35 14:59 N
6
14
MON 6
R S
02:33 15:53 N
Eyú
Hinecog • Arofú
Afánágh
6
15 TUE
6
R S
03:33 16:44 N
6
16
WED 6
R S
Ascaif
04:34 17:34 N
6
17 THU
6
R S
05:35 18:21 N
6
3 2 1 0 -1
Moon-related Observations & Activities Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council WPCouncil.org
1
2
3
Bottomfish Training: Part 1 The Council collaborated with the CNMI Governor’s Office to offer a 4-day vessel maintenance and capacity-building training on Saipan from May 31–June 3, 2019. The training included hands-on experience in targeting deep slope bottomfish fishing, fresh fish handling and processing, and commercial fishing vessel maintenance. To enhance this training, CNMI leased a commercially outfitted vessel configured to target bottomfish after extensive solicitation and expert consultations. Certified Volvo mechanic William Salt and vessel owner Ray Shirakawa taught local fishers about vessel maintenance and service. In addition, participants attended classroom lectures and hands-on workshops to introduce electronic reels, depth sounders, fish finders, and baiting and chumming techniques, along with other aspects of bottomfishing.
4 William Salt [1] and Ray Shirakawa (standing far right). [2] Gov. Ralph DLG Torres (left) and Mayor of the Northern Islands Vicente Santos (right) inspect vessel storage and accessories. [3] conduct vessel maintenance training for local fishers at the CNMI Department of Public Safety Boating Safety Warehouse. [4] CNMI’s bottomfish research vessel, the Kirida, is used to develop and build capacity within bottomfish fisheries. The 36-foot Radon boat arrived on Saipan on May 9, 2019.
Tenhos ‹› Maal September
Sinahi Uno • Sighauru
18 FRI
R S
6
06:36 19:07 N
6
Sinahi Dos • Eling
19 SAT
R S
6
07:36 19:52 N
6
Sinahi Tres • Meseling
20 SUN
R S
6
08:37 20:39 N
6
September 18–October 17, 2020
Mesóól
21
MON 6
R S
Mesáfúú
09:38 21:27 N
6
22 TUE
R S
6
Mesáwan
10:39 22:18 N
6
23
WED 6
R S
Mesátiw
11:41 23:12 N
6
24 THU
R
6
Emetan
12:40 N
6
25 FRI
S R
6
Kuåtto Presente Eschúw
00:08 13:37 N
6
26 SAT
S R
6
01:05 14:30 N
6
Epey
27 SUN
S R
6
02:01 15:19 N
6
3 2 1 0
Arobwoghúw
28
MON 6
S R
02:55 16:03 N
6
Olobwuwey
29 TUE
S R
6
03:47 16:43 N
6
Olomwaay
30
WE D 6
Gualåfon Umang Emmasch
October
-1
S R
04:37 17:21 N
6
1
THU
S R
6
05:24 17:57 N
6
Gualåfon • Úúr
2
FRI
S R
6
06:11 18:31 N
6
Henemhon Uno Letiw
Henemhom Dos Ghiney
3
4
SAT
S R
6
06:57 19:06 N
6
SUN
S R
6
07:44 19:42 N
6
Henemhon Tres • Ara
5
MON 6
S R
08:31 20:20 N
6
Sópásch
6
TUE
S R
6
Arosa
09:20 21:00 N
6
7
WED 6
S R
10:10 21:44 N
6
3 2 1 0 -1
Kuåtto Menguante Arosan Efnágh
8
THU
6
S R
11:02 22:32 N
6
Sópásch Me Emwiir
9
FRI
6
S R
11:55 23:24 N
6
Osáláng
10 SAT
6
S
Emwalú
12:49 N
6
11 SUN
6
R S
Schomwan Fán
00:19 13:41 N
6
12
MON 6
R S
01:17 14:32 N
6
Hinecog • Arofú
Afánágh
13 TUE
6
R S
02:16 15:21 N
6
14
WED 6
R S
03:16 16:08 N
6
Eyú
15 THU
6
R S
Efeng
04:16 16:54 N
6
16 FRI
6
R S
Ascaif
05:16 17:40 N
6
17 SAT
6
R S
06:17 18:26 N
6
3 2 1 0 -1
Moon-related Observations & Activities Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council WPCouncil.org
1
2
3
Bottomfish Training: Part 2 Hawai‘i commercial bottomfish fisherman Ed Ebisui III [1–3] led the classroom training on the preparation of terminal rigs; bathymetry— understanding structure and preferred habitat; technology to locate, identify and target species to maximize margins for commercial fishermen; anchoring vs. drifting, day vs. night, tides, moon phases, currents; handling and storage to maximize quality; braining and bleeding techniques; and at-sea packing to minimize damage. Clay Tam [4], the Council’s Advisory Panel chair, provided fishers with information on the importance of collecting detailed fishing data that can be used to better understand the status of bottomfish stocks in CNMI. Once fish are caught, scientists collect life history information to help determine age, growth, sex, maturity and other biological data that help inform stock assessments. Hawai‘i fishermen collected similar information, leading to a near doubling of the annual catch limit for bottomfish. John Gourley, Council member and owner of Micronesian Environmental Services (MES), also provided a briefing to meeting participants on MES’s life history program for reef fish.
4
Lumamlam ‹› Itch October
Sinahi Uno • Sighauru
18 SUN
R S
6
07:19 19:15 N
6
Sinahi Dos • Eling
19
MON 6
R S
08:23 20:06 N
6
Sinahi Tres • Meseling
20 TUE
R S
6
09:27 21:01 N
6
October 18–November 15, 2020
Mesóól
21
WED 6
R S
Mesáfúú
10:30 21:58 N
6
22 THU
R S
6
Mesáwan
11:30 22:57 N
6
23 FRI
R S
6
Mesátiw
12:26 23:55 N
6
24 SAT
R
6
Emetan
13:17 N
6
25 SUN
S R
6
Kuåtto Presente Eschúw
00:51 14:02 N
6
26
MON 6
S R
01:44 14:44 N
6
Epey
27 TUE
S R
6
02:34 15:22 N
6
3 2 1 0
Arobwoghúw
28
WE D 6
S R
03:22 15:58 N
6
Olobwuwey
29 THU
S R
6
04:09 16:33 N
6
Olomwaay
30 FRI
S R
6
Gualåfon Umang Emmasch
04:55 17:07 N
6
31 SAT
S R
6
05:41 17:43 N
6
Gualåfon • Úúr
November
-1
1
SUN
S R
6
06:28 18:20 N
6
Henemhon Uno Letiw
Henemhom Dos Ghiney
2
3
MON 6
S R
07:16 18:59 N
6
TUE
S R
6
08:06 19:42 N
6
Henemhon Tres • Ara
4
WED 6
S R
08:58 20:29 N
6
Sópásch
5
THU
S R
6
Arosa
09:51 21:19 N
6
6
FRI
6
S R
10:44 22:12 N
6
3 2 1 0 -1
Kuåtto Menguante Arosan Efnágh
7
SAT
6
S R
11:36 23:08 N
6
Sópásch Me Emwiir
8
SUN
6
S
12:26 N
6
Osáláng
9
MON 6
R S
Emwalú
00:05 13:14 N
6
10 TUE
6
R S
Schomwan Fán
01:02 14:00 N
6
11
WED 6
R S
02:00 14:44 N
6
Hinecog • Arofú
Afánágh
12 THU
6
R S
02:58 15:28 N
6
13 FRI
6
R S
03:57 16:13 N
6
Eyú
14 SAT
6
R S
Ascaif
04:57 17:01 N
6
15 SUN
6
R S
06:00 17:51 N
6
3 2 1 0 -1
Moon-related Observations & Activities Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council WPCouncil.org
The Garapan Fishing Base in one of 3 active launching areas on Saipan. The Council supported recreational fishers by paving the base’s parking area, which is capable of holding up to 11 boat trailers at a time. Fishermen agreed that the project improved boater safety and organization. The Garapan Fishing Base is one of the most popular sites on Saipan. It is not just a boat ramp—it is also the location of the weekly Thursday Market and other annual festivities and serves as a revenue source for many fishermen. PHOTOS: WILLIAM HUNTER (AERIAL), FLOYD MASGA (INSET)
Fanggualo' ‹› Sarobwél November
Sinahi Uno • Sighauru
16
MO N 6
R S
07:04 18:44 N
6
Sinahi Dos • Eling
17 TUE
R S
6
08:10 19:41 N
6
Sinahi Tres • Meseling
18
WED 6
R S
09:14 20:41 N
6
Mesóól
19 THU
R S
6
November 16–December 15, 2020
Mesáfúú
10:14 21:42 N
6
20 FRI
R S
6
Mesáwan
11:09 22:41 N
6
21 SAT
R S
6
Mesátiw
11:58 23:37 N
6
22 SUN
R
6
Emetan
12:42 N
6
23
MON 6
S R
Kuåtto Presente Eschúw
00:30 13:22 N
6
24 TUE
S R
6
01:18 13:59 N
6
Epey
25
WED 6
S R
02:06 14:34 N
6
3 2 1 0
Arobwoghúw
26 THU
S R
6
02:52 15:08 N
6
Olobwuwey
27 FRI
S R
6
03:38 15:43 N
6
Olomwaay
28 SAT
S R
6
Gualåfon Umang Emmasch
04:24 16:20 N
6
29 SUN
S R
6
05:12 16:58 N
6
Gualåfon • Úúr
30
MON 6
Henemhon Uno Letiw
Henemhom Dos Ghiney
1
2
December
-1
S R
06:02 17:40 N
6
TUE
S R
6
06:54 18:26 N
6
WED 6
S R
07:47 19:15 N
6
Henemhon Tres • Ara
3
THU
S R
6
08:40 20:08 N
6
Sópásch
4
FRI
S R
6
Arosa
09:33 21:03 N
6
5
SAT
S R
6
10:24 21:59 N
6
3 2 1 0 -1
Kuåtto Menguante Arosan Efnágh
6
SUN
6
S R
11:12 22:56 N
6
Sópásch Me Emwiir
7
MON 6
S R
11:57 23:52 N
6
Osáláng
8
TUE
6
S
Emwalú
12:41 N
6
9
WED 6
R S
Schomwan Fán
00:47 13:23 N
6
10 THU
6
R S
01:43 14:06 N
6
Hinecog • Arofú
Afánágh
11 FRI
6
R S
02:41 14:50 N
6
12 SAT
6
R S
03:40 15:37 N
6
Eyú
13 SUN
6
R S
Efeng
04:42 16:28 N
6
14
MON 6
R S
Ascaif
05:47 17:23 N
6
15 TUE
6
R S
06:52 18:21 N
6
3 2 1 0 -1
Moon-related Observations & Activities Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council WPCouncil.org
Mayor Efraim Atalig’s Office and Stan Taisacan taught Preserving Traditional Fishing classes on Rota—a project under the CNMI DLNR Marine Conservation Plan. Participants learned basic knowledge about traditional fishing methods and making canoes. Students were taken to remote locations on Rota to identify suitable type of trees to make a canoe and received training on cutting, designing and the types of traditional tools used. Local boating safety and medical staff added to the students’ training in water safety and emergency procedures. When the canoe was constructed, participants received valuable hands-on at-sea guidance. PHOTOS: ROTA MAYOR STAFF
Sumongsong ‹›Oromoi December 16, 2020–January 13, 2021 December
Sinahi Uno • Sighauru
16
WE D 6
R S
07:55 19:23 N
6
Sinahi Dos • Eling
17 THU
R S
6
08:54 20:24 N
6
Sinahi Tres • Meseling
18 FRI
R S
6
09:48 21:24 N
6
Mesóól
19 SAT
R S
6
Mesáfúú
10:36 22:20 N
6
20 SUN
R S
6
Mesáwan
11:18 23:12 N
6
21
R
MON 6
Mesátiw
11:57 N
6
22 TUE
S R
6
Emetan
00:02 12:33 N
6
23
WED 6
S R
Kuåtto Presente Eschúw
00:48 13:08 N
6
24 THU
S R
6
01:33 13:42 N
6
Epey
25 FRI
S R
6
02:19 14:18 N
6
3 2 1 0
Arobwoghúw
26 SAT
S R
6
03:06 14:56 N
6
Olobwuwey
27 SUN
S R
6
03:55 15:36 N
6
Olomwaay
28
MON 6
S R
Gualåfon Umang Emmasch
04:46 16:21 N
6
29 TUE
S R
6
05:39 17:09 N
6
Gualåfon • Úúr
30
WED 6
S R
06:33 18:02 N
6
Henemhon Uno Letiw
31 THU
Henemhom Dos Ghiney
January
-1
S R
6
07:27 18:57 N
6
1
FRI
S R
6
08:20 19:54 N
6
Henemhon Tres • Ara
2
SAT
S R
6
09:09 20:51 N
6
Sópásch
3
SUN
S R
6
Arosa
09:56 21:48 N
6
4
MON 6
S R
10:40 22:43 N
6
3 2 1 0 -1
Kuåtto Menguante Arosan Efnágh
5
TUE
6
S R
11:22 23:38 N
6
Sópásch Me Emwiir
6
WE D 6
S
12:04 N
6
Osáláng
7
THU
6
R S
Emwalú
00:33 12:46 N
6
8
FRI
6
R S
Schomwan Fán
01:30 13:30 N
6
9
SAT
6
R S
02:29 14:18 N
6
10 SUN
6
R S
03:30 15:09 N
Eyú
Hinecog • Arofú
Afánágh
6
11
MON 6
R S
04:33 16:06 N
6
12 TUE
6
R S
Ascaif
05:36 17:05 N
6
13
WED 6
R S
06:37 18:06 N
6
3 2 1 0 -1
Moon-related Observations & Activities Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council WPCouncil.org
The CNMI Biosampling Program, in cooperation with local Saipan fish markets, has measured more than 215,000 reef fish since 2011. The collection of biosamples for life history studies is one of the many critical components needed for accurate stock assessments. Although the research program receives annual base funding from the NOAA Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center (PIFSC), several Marine Conservation Plan grants through the Council were awarded to assist the program during the early years. Local partners include DFW and Michael Trianni from the Saipan NOAA PIFSC Office. The current biosampling team is comprised of Tony Flores, George B. Salas Jr., Max Garcia, Jay Camacho (above) and Shirley Ann Taitano. PHOTO: SHIRLEY TAITANO /TONY FLORES
Umayangan ‹› Schoow January
Sinahi Uno • Sighauru
14 THU
R S
6
07:34 19:06 N
6
Sinahi Dos • Eling
15 FRI
R S
6
08:25 20:05 N
6
Sinahi Tres • Meseling
16 SAT
R S
6
09:10 21:00 N
6
Mesóól
17 SUN
R S
6
January 14–February 12, 2021
Mesáfúú
09:51 21:51 N
6
18
MON 6
R S
Mesáwan
10:29 22:40 N
6
19 TUE
R S
6
Mesátiw
11:05 23:28 N
6
20
R
WED 6
Emetan
11:40 N
6
21 THU
S R
6
Kuåtto Presente Eschúw
00:14 12:15 N
6
22 FRI
S R
6
01:00 12:52 N
6
Epey
23 SAT
S R
6
01:47 13:31 N
6
3 2 1 0
Arobwoghúw
24 SUN
S R
6
02:37 14:14 N
6
Olobwuwey
25
MON 6
S R
03:29 15:00 N
6
Olomwaay
26 TUE
S R
6
Gualåfon Umang Emmasch
04:23 15:51 N
6
27
WED 6
S R
05:17 16:46 N
6
Gualåfon • Úúr
28 THU
S R
6
06:11 17:43 N
6
Henemhon Uno Letiw
29 FRI
S R
6
07:03 18:42 N
6
Henemhom Dos Ghiney
30 SAT
S R
6
07:51 19:40 N
6
Henemhon Tres • Ara
31 SUN
Sópásch
Arosa
February
-1
S R
6
08:37 20:37 N
6
1
MON 6
S R
09:21 21:33 N
6
2
TUE
S R
6
10:03 22:29 N
6
3 2 1 0 -1
Kuåtto Menguante Arosan Efnágh
3
WED 6
S R
10:46 23:26 N
6
Sópásch Me Emwiir
4
THU
6
S
11:29 N
6
Osáláng
5
FRI
6
R S
Emwalú
00:23 12:15 N
6
6
SAT
6
R S
Schomwan Fán
01:23 13:04 N
6
7
SUN
6
R S
02:23 13:57 N
6
Hinecog • Arofú
Afánágh
8
MON 6
R S
03:25 14:54 N
6
9
TUE
6
R S
04:25 15:53 N
6
Eyú
10
WED 6
R S
Efeng
05:22 16:53 N
6
11 THU
6
R S
Ascaif
06:15 17:51 N
6
12 FRI
6
R S
07:02 18:47 N
6
3 2 1 0 -1
Moon-related Observations & Activities Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council WPCouncil.org
About the Council The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council was established by Congress in 1976 to manage fisheries in the offshore waters surrounding Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, Hawai‘i and the US Pacific Remote Island Areas. The fisheries in federal waters surrounding CNMI are managed under the Mariana Archipelago and Pacific Pelagic Fishery Ecosystem Plans. Traditional knowledge and wide community involvement are integral parts of the ecosystembased approach to fishery management.
CNMI Contacts Council Vice Chair John Gourley Phone: (670) 322-7289 Email: john.e.gourley@gmail.com Council Member McGrew Rice Phone: (808) 960-1424 Email: mcgrewrice@gmail.com
The 35th Annual Saipan International Fishing Tournament, 6 a.m. checkout.
About This Calendar The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council has produced traditional lunar calendars for the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) since 2007. The intent is to raise awareness about traditional ecological knowledge and enhance community involvement in fishery management. The calendar features previous contributions and advice from the CNMI lunar calendar committees (Chamorro: Adolfo S. Calvo, Anicet H. Mundo, Estanislao M. Taisacan; and Refaluwasch: Lino Olopai, Cecilio Raiukiulipiy and Raymond Tebuteb). This 2020 Eskaleran Pulan Chamorro/2020 Refaluwasch Pápáál Maram highlights Council-sponsored and related projects in CNMI. Chamorro and Refaluwasch are the indigenous people of the Mariana Archipelago. Chamorro and Refaluwasch, along with English, are the official languages of CNMI. The Chamorro names for the lunar months and moon phases are in black, and the Refaluwasch names are in green.
Council Member Tony Benavente CNMI Department of Lands & Natural Resources Phone: (670) 322-9834 Email: tonybenavente@gmail.com Guam Island Coordinator Floyd Masga Phone: (670) 285-9125 Email: floyd.masga@wpcouncil.org
The calendar reflects the Council’s continued work with the CNMI community to recognize the importance of island cultures and traditional fishing practices in managing fishery resources and to foster opportunities for local fishermen participation, which is one of the Council’s 7 Guiding Principles. The moon phases in this calendar are for Saipan as calculated by the HM Nautical Almanac (astro.ukho.gov. uk/websurf). The tide charts with moon rise and set times are in Chamorro time for Saipan and were provided by OceanFun Publishing, NZ. Front cover photo: The Council supported recreational fishers by paving the Garapan Fishing Base parking area, 1 of 3 active launching areas on Saipan that is capable of holding up to 11 boat trailers at a time. PHOTO: WILLIAM HUNTER
Calendar photos by Floyd Masga unless otherwise noted.
Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council 1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1400 Honolulu, Hawaii 96813 Phone: (808) 522-8220 Fax: (808) 522-8226 Email: info@wpcouncil.org Web: www.wpcouncil.org Published in the United States by the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council under NOAA Award NA15NMF4410008 ©2019, Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council ISBN 978-1-944827-40-3