The residents of Sanoa Village migrated from Moso Island in 1962 to preserve the natural resources and landmarks that once belonged to their great-grandparents. The village has a population of over 50 in the community of Tanaliu. The village custom land boundary is estimated at about 1,982 acres. The villagers make a living from farming, fishing, and selling coral and clam shells. The sea there is home to a variety of native corals and shells that have been under immense pressure from human activity in the area for more than 12 years. During World War II, Americans used the port for warships and sea planes.
Seacology is funding the construction of a community hall. In return, the community will preserve a 12-acre marine reserve for at least 10 years. The community has also committed to not sell shells or coral to tourists.
In 2013, Seacology made an additional grant to fund the installation of two water cisterns for the community hall and village. In exchange, the community extended the protection of the marine protected area for another five years.
