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Economic Future
Some additional. comments are in order with respect to the economic
future of Bikini.
The basic resettlement program is designed to provide,
at the minimun, the coconut-basea economy which existed Curing the pre-testing
period.
The coconut is virtually the only commercial crop which can be grown
on & coral atoll and it is essential to life on such an atoll.
The resettle-
ment plans, however, do not preclude building upon this base for a more
diversified economy for the returned Bikinians.
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Tne islands and the remarkable lagoon provide a potential for tourism
which might be developed to the benefit of the Bikinians.
Access is readily
available because of the airstrip; the islands are potentially attractive if
properly developed; they have an historic aura; some of the physical remains
of the testing program are impressive and awe-inspiring; and there are existing
recreational resources in the lagoon -~- shelling, sport fishing, snorkeling.
A third economic potential is research activity.
Bikini has been the
‘basis for considerable study in nuclear-related fields and the return of the
people need not terminate such research.
might well facilitate such work.
Infact, the return of the people
The establishment of a research center on
Bikini by the Federal Government or by universities and private organizations
would provide employment and income possibilities for the local people.
Weather Bureau is already planning a weather station on the atoll.
The
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These opportunities will need further exploration as the resettlement
program progresses.
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