Day 4: Bridging Science and Community at MICC 

03/13/25 - Day four of the Mariana Islands Conservation Conference explored pressing regional issues, from protecting native species to tackling invasive threats. Scientists and community leaders shared insights on preserving our lands and waters, blending modern research with island wisdom. Key topics include environmental DNA research, invasive species control, and marine conservation— all critical for ensuring a sustainable future for the Marianas.

"It's really interesting how you are looking at the microbial perspective for restoration, but also for human health, ecosystem health. Everything starts from the health of the soil," said De la Vega Basurto.

De la Vega Basurto said that this research is important because deforestation causes the soil to become more arid, or dry, which can pose the risk of biomes such as tropical forests to become savannahs and later erode into badlands. De la Vega Basurto added that knowing more about the interconnectivity of these microbial communities would be beneficial in informing reforestation and management efforts.

The Humåtak Watershed is home to Fouha Bay, the site of the CHamoru creation story. When it comes to conducting studies within this sacred and culturally significant space, De la Vega Basurto said that being a good guest lies at the forefront of his research. 

"The first thing that I did is to learn how to ask permission in CHamoru from the taotaomo'na so that I can enter the place," said De la Vega Basurto. "That's something that before I even step, it's very important for me to know where I'm at and be aware of the significance of the place and not make the taotaomo'na upset."

De la Vega Basurto added that his role as a scientist requires him to interpret the collective wisdom that has sustained and nourished the people of this region for millennia. 

"When you look at the Pacific and you look at the way they have their fish ponds and have cultivated their fish ponds, all this interconnectivity maintains the health of the ecosystem," said De la Vega Basurto. "When you look at agriculture in any other setting, there is always an ecological disaster waiting to happen—as opposed to the Pacific islands where they continue to use the natural controls. Everything flourishes. It's very important to be humble and know we are just interpreting the knowledge that has been passed through generations. "

Preserving the Marianas: An Advocate's Conservation Mission

The Northern Mariana Islands’ ocean and land ecosystems face growing conservation challenges, but local advocates like Dhalian Salas are stepping up. As an Ocean Team Leader with Friends of the Marianas Trench, Salas is working to engage the community in protecting the region’s natural resources.

Currently part of the Ocean Conservation Corps through Solving for X, Salas values learning from experts and seeing conservation efforts firsthand at MICC. “Discovery rates and bringing back species really impact both our land and our sea,” she said, highlighting the importance of restoration efforts. However, invasive species like the brown tree snake remain a major threat to native wildlife.

Education also plays a role in conservation. “I see a lot of growth in our STEM field areas rooted in the CNMI. For example, allocating curriculum opportunities for sustainable practices and enforcing policies helps people understand the potential behind why conservation efforts are being done in the CNMI,” Salas said. She believes that integrating sustainability into school curriculums will help young people understand policies and the importance of conservation.

Beyond research and education, Salas stresses community involvement. “Finding the time to commit to conservation is crucial,” she said. “Even just advocating and being part of your community makes a difference.”

She encourages locals to support organizations within the Micronesia Challenge (MICC) to help protect the islands’ ecosystems. “Our islands depend on the ocean, and the ocean depends on us,” Salas said. “By working together, we can ensure a sustainable future for the Mariana Islands.”

One Health: Student's MICC Insight

What if the key to better healthcare starts with healing the environment? For Auriela St. Maria, a pre-practical nursing student from the University of Guam, this question isn’t just hypothetical,  it’s her motivation. Volunteering as a timekeeper at MICC, Auriela discovered how closely linked environmental conservation and public health truly are.

“I gained some extra credit, but more importantly, I learned how I can contribute to the environment and conservation efforts,” Auriela explained. Her passion for nursing extends beyond clinical care, as she recognizes the impact of environmental health on well-being.

Auriela said, “The health of our environment also goes directly to our  health, and as a nursing student, these external factors play a huge role in the illnesses that we treat.” She emphasized the connection between environmental issues such as climate change, deforestation, and rising temperatures with increasing health concerns. “For example, the rise of dengue fever and other mosquito-borne illnesses often results in higher rates of hospitalization within many communities.”

Auriela believes promoting the use of green spaces, beaches, and hiking trails is not only good for mental and physical wellness but also helps build a stronger connection with our environment.

This volunteer experience at MICC has inspired Auriela to consider how she can integrate her future nursing career with conservation efforts. “This is a great opportunity to learn more about conservation efforts and to really get involved, even as a nursing student. I am grateful to MICC and my professors for the support.”

As Auriela’s journey continues, her story highlights how the path to healthcare can also be a journey of environmental stewardship — a reminder that caring for our planet is also caring for ourselves.

In the afternoon, the spotlight turns to environmental education, internship opportunities, and pathways for Indigenous knowledge integration into conservation efforts. Sessions will highlight the importance of bridging modern science with traditional ecological knowledge. The event will conclude with awards and a closing ceremony, recognizing the dedication and collaboration that drive conservation efforts across the Marianas Islands. 

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Story and videos by Amanda Dedicatoria & Eloise Lopez

Photos by Eliseo Silverio III 

Edited by Thomas Manglona II

View more photos from day two at our Marianas Press Facebook page.

This coverage is brought to you in partnership with Tåno, Tåsi, yan Todu as part of a workforce development program related to environmental journalism led by Marianas Press’s Thomas Manglona II.