SAIPAN — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has begun removing storm-generated debris from Managaha Island, a Saipan bird sanctuary and tourist attraction heavily damaged by Super Typhoon Sinlaku.
Crews are clearing downed vegetation from the island to help restore safe access while recovery continues on Saipan, USACE said. Quality Assurance Representative Tom French said the work also includes ensuring crews use proper safety equipment and stay clear of restricted areas while bird specialists are present.
French, who said he is from Florida and accustomed to hurricanes, said the first push of debris removal after a major storm matters for residents.
“To move the debris out of the way is great for the community,” French said. “They can see what they have to work with, and they can start to work on their properties.”
French said the work is hard but rewarding, describing it as a way to give back as a civil servant.