Whether it’s protecting ecosystems, fish and wildlife habitats, watersheds, or endangered flora and fauna, privately owned lands can contribute to conservation efforts. It’s why the Guam Department of Agriculture Forestry and Soil Resources Division is hosting a Forest Legacy Workshop throughout this week.

Forestry Division Chief Christine Fejeren told KUAM News, it’s a community meeting to discuss what Guam’s Forest Legacy Program could mean for private forest landowners.

658 “There are many family properties where they probably won’t ever build. It could be the terrain. The topography alone makes it cost too great for the family to build upon. Maybe bringing infrastructure in could be the challenge. Or maybe there are no more family members on island that want to have anything to do with the property.” 0722

Whether landowners want a permanent conservation easement or to sell the land for conservation uses, she says the workshop is the place for the community to freely discuss what they want to do with their land.

“If the property is there and you can’t ever build on it. Maybe you are by a wetland, maybe you are by a cliff line, or whatever the maybe is, but you want to do something. This could be a way to keep your property and be paid to keep it green,” she said.

There are three workshop days where community members can speak with Forestry officials.

Forest Legacy Program meeting dates: 

April 12 at 5:30 p.m. at the Yigo Senior Center.
April 13 also 5:30 p.m. at the Inalahan Community Center.
April 15 at 10:00 a.m.at the Mangilao Senior Center.