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03/10/25 - The 7th annual Mariana Islands Conservation Conference (MICC), held at the Dusit Thani Guam Hotel, started with an urgent call to action: come together to navigate the times ahead.
This sentiment was shared by Lieutenant Governor of Guam Joshua Tenorio during the opening ceremony of the event, which aims to share the knowledge and experiences in conservation and management from the CNMI and Guåhan.
"The new leadership in the federal government got elected to be disruptors, but I think that people have underestimated the level of disruption that is occurring or will occur," said Tenorio. "I think that it's so important that people in academia, the world of nonprofits, and state and local governments are able to focus and take account of all the assets and knowledge we've been building so we can have some stability and navigate through these times."
Amidst threats to funding that supports research, climate change, and a purge in federal workers, Tenorio stressed the need for members of the community, state and local government officials, and changemakers to take into account the knowledge and resources they have to chart a course through the challenges that are being faced today.
"On Guam, the challenges we have are obviously all the environmental issues that we deal with: watershed restoration, invasive species, and making sure that we have a better path to protect what we have," said Tenorio. "What I'd say is that local innovation is something we should celebrate. Today and the next few days, you'll have the chance to touch on, learn, and also share all the great innovations that are happening here on the island and in the region."
Calling in the community to call for the return of native birds
In Asan Beach Park, where community members spend their day walking along the coastline and listening to the sounds of the ocean, there is an initiative to bring the birds back.
Tim Clark, who recently retired from his position as a terrestrial, marine, and cultural manager at the War in the Pacific National History Park, talked about an ongoing project focused on removing invasive brown tree snakes from Asan Ridge as part of an effort to entice the return of native birds.
This project was outlined during the presentation entitled, "Using Citizen Science and Partnerships for Invasive Brown Treesnake Removal to Facilitate Native Species Recovery at Asan Beach Unit, War in the Pacific National Historical Park."
"This is a project we've been working on to remove brown tree snakes from Asan Ridge. What we're hoping to do is reduce the amount of brown tree snakes so we can reintroduce native bird species," said Clark. "We've been doing a lot of work to go out and trap snakes, do visual surveys for snakes, and remove them from the ridge. Also, what we've been doing for the birds is creating some nesting habitats like såli (Micronesian starling) boxes that we've been putting out into the field to attract more native birds in the field."
Due to challenges such as securing funding for research and reductions in personnel, Clark says that the project would benefit significantly from the people it aims to serve.
“The main thing is that we want this to be a community project,” said Clark. “ We want people to come out and volunteer for this. We would appreciate any support the community can give us. Don't see this as a National Parks Service or federal government project. This is a project for the community.”
Fostering Collaboration for Climate Action with Micronesia Climate Change Alliance
The Micronesia Climate Change Alliance (MCCA) is making waves at the Marianas Island Conservation Conference, promoting collaboration between scientists, indigenous knowledge holders, and community members.
Cami Egurrola, Director of Communication at MCCA, presented alongside MCCA Narrative Strategist Jordan Panwelo, focusing on “healing through collaboration.” Her presentation highlighted the Amut Walk initiative, a community effort aimed at creating regenerative spaces across the Mariana Islands.
“Our goal is to build a bridge between frontline communities, their aspirations, and scientists to encourage more engagement with nature and biodiversity,” Egurrola explained. “MCCA really wants this to be an opportunity for the folks here in the conference to experience these spaces and how impactful it can be for their research.”
Community Participation at MICC
Jennelyn Abinales, a community participant and representative from the Northern Guam Soil and Water Conservation District, attended MICC to emphasize the urgency of local involvement in conservation.
“Learning more about conservation for our islands, our region, and our community is crucial,” Abinales said. “We need to get that awareness out, and it can’t be the best-kept secret anymore—it needs to be known. Even with all the changes going on with the federal community, now is the time for us to step into those roles in conservation and sustainability.”
She pointed out that the biggest challenge is the limited access to education and resources for many locals. “It’s not just about having a college degree. Being part of the community, staying curious, and being willing to help—that’s what’s most important,” Abinales added.
Abinales also highlighted the growing opportunities for islanders to engage in conservation efforts. “The islands feel climate change the most, and coming home to make a change at home is something to be proud of,” she shared.
She called on fellow islanders to step up, take ownership, and contribute to shaping a sustainable future for their communities.
Coming up: Day 2
Looking ahead, on day two of the MICC, participants will hear from researchers and conservationists about the endangered Ko’ko’, Mariana crow, and Mariana swiftlet, with insights on their populations, habitat management, and how landscapes influence their survival. Presentations will also cover the restoration efforts for the sihek (Micronesian Kingfisher), the latest research on plant ecology, and hands-on discussions on hybrid restoration techniques and forest management. Plus, experts will share practical strategies on building resilience against the impacts of climate change, especially with the Pacific Drought Knowledge Exchange. There will also be a career fair, a chance to network, explore new paths in conservation, and find a mentor.
Following a successful first day filled with valuable insights and engaging discussions, tomorrow’s sessions will dive even deeper into the pressing environmental challenges faced by the Pacific 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 one 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’ Thomas Manglona II.
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