University of Guam holds successful tree planting event in Malojloj

The University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant successfully hosted a community tree planting event at their Ugum watershed project site.

The event is part of UOG’s Sustainable September and was coordinated as a part of the groups Guam Restoration of Watersheds Initiative that works to reforest areas to prevent soil erosion.

Students, faculty, staff, and community volunteers planted varying kinds of trees with the intent of securing soil and preventing further runoff into southern rivers and waters.  

The erosion of the watershed has led to problems with the southern water treatment plant and coral reefs in the area that are suffocated by the sediments. 

GROW’s project leader is Daniel Stone Jr. and he expressed excitement for their upcoming initiatives. 

“We have several planting events for the community to join us for between now and the end of the year,” said Stone. “Families, community groups and members of the island community are welcome to join us to make a difference, one tree at a time.”

He said this first planting saw nearly 1,600 trees installed along the Ugum hillside with a target of over 5,000 for this year. 

The next planting is scheduled for Oct. 5, 2024 at the Ugum site and will begin at 8 a.m. with a safety briefing and project introduction for newcomers. 

The tree planting event was part of UOG’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainable practices and protect Guam’s natural resources through the Center for Island Sustainability & Sea Grant.  

Projects and progress will be on display during the 16th UOG Conference on Island Sustainability from April 7 to 12, 2025.