Achugao and Laolao Bay Watershed Restoration

Pacific Coastal Research and Planning | Horsley Witten Group, Inc.

Funding Source: NOAA Restoration Center

Project Background

Achugao and Laolao Bay watersheds have been listed as priority watersheds by both the CNMI Division of Coastal Resources Management as well as the NOAA Coral Reef Conservation Program. These watersheds drain into two of Saipan’s most valuable marine ecosystems: the northern Saipan Lagoon and Laolao Bay. PCRP, in collaboration with Horsley Witten Group, will build on recently completed Watershed Management Plans (WMPs) for these two priority watersheds to implement 1-2 coastal and watershed restoration projects that will enhance the local communities’ resiliency and restore valuable ecosystem services.

Project Stages (Timeline - 36 months)

Stakeholder Engagement & Project Selection - Complete
Development of Conceptual Designs - In progress
Advanced Design & Permitting
Construction Plans & Project Implementation
Community Outreach (in collaboration with Mariana Islands Nature Alliance)

Site and Project Selection:

Based on public and stakeholder feedback, PCRP and Horsley Witten have selected 4 watershed restoration projects to carry into the preliminary design phase in 2024. These projects are evenly distributed between the Achugao and LaoLao Bay watersheds. The projects selected are as follows:

Achugao Watershed

Development of a “Stormwater Management Master Plan” for the Tanapag Middle School Campus
Drainage Improvements at the As Agatan Stream Crossing along Middle Road