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 minimum, the coconut-based economy which existed during the pretesting period.
The coconut is virtually the only commercial crop which
can be grown on a coral atoll and it is essential to life on such an atoll.
The resettlement plans, however, do not preclude building upon this base
for a more diversified economy for the returned Bikinians.
The islands and the remarkable lagoon provide a potential for tourism
which might be developed to the beneSit of the Bikinians.
Access will be
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.
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 Weather Bureau is already planning a weather
station on the atoll.
These opportunities will be given further exploration as the resettle-
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ment program progresses.