Chapter I Intro & Objectives - SPREP

PHOENIX ISLANDS PROTECTED AREA MANAGEMENT PLAN
Chapter III. Background, 2. Human Activities
Draft 1 March 2007
In 1993, all Phoenix Islands, including Manra, were uninhabited except Abariringa (Kanton)
(Neemia and Thaman 1993).
In 1995, the survey team for the Phoenix Islands made numerous recommendations for
development of the Phoenix Islands, specifically Abariringa (Tunaari), Enderbury, Manra,
and Nikumaroro (Government of Kiribati 1995). These included the re-settlement of
Abariringa (Tunaari), Enderbury, Manra, and Nikumaroro. Overseas funding was suggested
as a mechanism for funding these projects.
In 1997, the Te Kakai scheme was proposed for Manra, Orona, Nikumaroro, and Abariringa
(Tunaari) to utilize idle resources there (Tauati 1997). The basic plan included four
activities: (1) copra production, (2) seaweed planting and harvesting, (3) sea cucumber
collection and (4) shark fin production. The budget provided (AUD 95,048) was a 12 month
budget for expenses, not including staff costs and medical supplies. Manra was proposed as
a substitute site for the Kakai Scheme (PIKS Project Manager 2002).
In 2002, the fore part of a plane (3.5 m) was found on the west interior of Manra (Bukaeireiti
and Rabaua 2002). In addition, evidence of an old wooden vessel (oxidized iron, thin copper
strips, and non-carbonaceous rocks=ballast) was found on the northwest side of the island.
The exact location of the shipwreck could not be determined.
MCKEAN
There were no intact buildings or other structures on McKean (Garnett 1983a).
In 1992 McKean was uninhabited (Republic of Kiribati 1992).
In 1993, all Phoenix Islands, including McKean, were uninhabited except Abariringa
(Kanton) (Neemia and Thaman 1993).
Preconstruction environmental surveys were carried out on Manra, Nikumaroro, McKean,
and Birnie (King et al 2001). This was for the U.S. Air Force’s Space and Missile Test
Center (SAMTEC) program in the Phoenix Islands.
In 2001, a fish trawler wrecked on McKean (Kerr and Wragg 2006). International Maritime
Organization (2004) reported that the vessel was the Korean fishing vessel, Chance No. 301,
that grounded on McKean Islands. It was a total loss, but no lives were lost, and there were
no injuries. Weather was not a factor in the accident. This vessel has been suspected in
introducing the Asian rat to McKean (Pierce et al 2006).
NIKUMARORO (GARDNER)
In 1980, it was proposed that a resettlement project be developed to include Nikumaroro
(Gardner) (Brechtefeld 1980). Investigations indicated that resettlement was possible, despite
British Government denial of aid for this project. The proposal included a loan program for
participants and initial government support for the settlers.
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