The 2nd Annual Agriculture Symposium at the Guam Museum is now in its second day, and at the heart of this year’s theme, "Rooted In Resilience," are the stories of farmers who’ve weathered the many challenges of agriculture on island. This year’s symposium is bringing together farmers, experts, and community members to discuss the future of farming on Guam. Among the attendees is Enrique Salas, whose journey from childhood farming to commercial agriculture reflects how much the industry has changed.

"I grew up in this industry. I was born into it," he shared. "I’m a child of the ‘50’s and I can remember the early attempts at commercial farming. Because prior to that, everyone has their little subsistence patch. I remember your uncle, father or grandfather always have a clearing where they grow corn or root crops– taro, cassava, yams– for their own use."

Growing up on a ranch, Salas never planned to return to farming. After he got older, he joined the military to escape the life he knew. But years later, he came home and found himself drawn back to the land. "I hated it," he recalled.

"Because I was compelled to show up, because it was a family thing. That’s what they did. That’s how they earned their livelihood." He added, "I got away from it for about 16, 17, 18 years. When I came back, now it’s my own– it’s my own enterprise. I call the shots."

Today, Salas not only manages his own farm, but also works for the Department of Agriculture, sharing his knowledge with others and advocating for local farming. "Me and my brother, we have about close to 400 banana plants in Talo’fo’fo," he said.

Still, he says, there are serious challenges, noting, "The cost of production always comes from somewhere else– fertilizers, irrigations supplies, seeds. It all comes from off island and there’s a markup. I give kudos to anyone who undergoes this endeavor because it has its challenges in the tropics. All the bugs will come stay in Guam because it’s nice and warm."

But despite the obstacles, discussions at the symposium are focused on solutions, especially food security. With Guam’s heavy reliance on imported goods, many say supporting local agriculture is key to building resilience.

"I have hope because I’ve seen some very– you know they have imagination and you have to have the drive. I do it because I go to my farm sometimes and I sit there, parked under the shade, and listen to the CHamoru music station. If the plants are doing well then I’m happy," he said.

As the symposium continues, farmers like Salas are taking that drive and sharing their passion for planting crops to plant seeds for future generation of farmers.