by Michele Catahay

Guam - A student symposium was held today at the Hilton Hotel to highlight local fisheries and marine resources. According to Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council Communications Officer Sylvia Spalding, students were able to learn about the various services provided to help protect marine life. It was open to high school students from all over Guam.

They were able to also learn about the many professions in these fields. "Fishing is a livelihood. It's part of our culture. It's an opportunity to earn money, feed your family and a lot of times, students think that fishing is just going out and being a fisherman but there are other things they can do. They can be a scientist, a manager, go into retail sales and marketing," Spalding explained.

The event highlighted booths on traditional fisheries in the Marianas, demonstrations by fishermen, traditional lunar calendars and art contests, summer courses, and fisheries role in the community.