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,.
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