January 26, 2012

US Tinian Islands' aquaculture industry sees positive growth

Due to local farmers and ranchers' increased efforts in taking advantage of the potential for producing and marketing food commodities, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands' (CNMI) aquaculture and agriculture sectors continue to see some positive growth in recent years.

Farmers like Joe San Nicolas of Tinian are expanding and diversifying their farming operations in response to the increased demand for fresh, locally grown products in the islands.  San Nicolas is the owner of SN-5 Incorporated, a family operated business which just last week completed the installation of a Re-circulating Aquaculture System along the historic Broadway Street where live fish can be selected and sold to customers on-demand.

The growth of the CNMI's agriculture industry continues thanks to the efforts of people like San Nicolas who take advantage of the many advocacy groups who exist to assist businesses with technical advice on many of the aspects of farming including production techniques, options for sustainable farming, value-adding, and much more. 

The Northern Marianas College-Cooperative Research Extension and Education Service, more commonly known as NMC-CREES, has worked in partnership with SN-5 Inc. and other producers in helping to set businesses on a course for success.

While helping to strengthen the local economy, a robust agriculture industry also has the added benefit of allowing for the production of export commodities, reducing the pressures on the islands' natural resources, and contributing to the availability of healthy lifestyle options for CNMI residents. Residents who are interested in pursuing agriculture and aquaculture projects are encouraged to contact the staff at NMC-CREES to access various information and resources that are available.