In a historic first for regional conservation, Guam and the CNMI have united to develop a shared vision for protecting wildlife across the Marianas. 

The University of Guam’s Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, in partnership with the Guam Department of Agriculture, hosted representatives from the CNMI Department of Fish and Wildlife for a two-day State Wildlife Action Plan workshop.

Their goal is to identify species of greatest conservation need and align strategies to protect them across both island chains.

Leaders from both Guam and CNMI emphasized the cultural, ecological, and environmental importance of collaboration, recognizing that plants, animals, and ecosystems transcend political borders.

According to wildlife biologist and conservation planner Dacia Wiitala from the CNMI Division of Fish & Wildlife, the meeting served as an opportunity to start a partnership that will have a lasting impact.

“The purpose of the workshop was to identify opportunities for collaboration between Guam and CNMI natural resource managers that would result in cost-saving opportunities, regional capacity building, data sharing, and overall improvements to conservation practices for our shared Species of Greatest Conservation Need,” said Witala. 

Witala also stressed the big role community feedback plays in conservation. 

“Stakeholder engagement is the most important aspect of conservation planning. Talking with people who have different perspectives and experiences brings up new ideas and considerations that might be missed if you don't seek out diverse input,” added Witala.