The centre piece of the Mannai Sea Turtle Conservation Station is the “breeding lagoon”, covering an area of about 5 hectares. The lagoon was designed by the Department of Fisheries, and is based on a water flow concept. Work to build the permeable concrete wall began in 1986 and was completed in 1988. The beach enclosed by the lagoon is used for nesting.
In the past Mannai Island was uninhabited, so the main initial challenge was to install public utilities. There was no electricity or water supply at that time. The pioneers had to adapt themselves and they developed the project from the ground. Nowadays, the problem is transportation between the mainland and the island especially during monsoon season (May-October). Due to strong winds and very rough sea waves, it is difficult to manage routine work.
Currently, 16 full-time staff work at the station, including 8 sea turtle caretakers and 6 technical staff members for equipment maintenance. A fisheries officer and veterinarian visit the island about 5 times a month.