Beonomiec 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 minimum, the coconut-based economy which existed during 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 civersified economy for the returned Bikinians. ce islands and the remarkable lazoon provide a potential for tourism which might be developed to the benefit of the Bikintans. 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, In fact, the return of the people might well facilitate such work. 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. The yveatner Bureau is already planning a weather station on the atoll. Taese opvortunities will need further exploration as the resettlement ~eOgran. orusresses,. -14-