MANGILAO, Guam — Guam’s Department of Agriculture mobilized 97 volunteers Saturday who planted 2,200 trees at the As Gadao Reforestation Site in Malesso’, rain or shine, in what the department called its strongest kickoff to a planting season yet.
Volunteers planted 1,900 native trees — Ladda, Abbas duendes, Pago, Lampauye, Nanaso, Kafu, Pahong, Da’ok, Anasser, Ifit, Dukduk, Chi’ute, Ahgao and Sumak-lada — along with 300 Acacia trees, according to the department’s Forestry and Soil Resources Division. Of the 97 volunteers, 73 signed up for stipends totaling $5,840.
“97 volunteers showing up rain or shine to plant 2,200 trees in a single day tells you everything about the heart of our community,” DOAG Director Chelsa Muña said. “This is what landscape-scale restoration looks like when our people decide to take ownership of our island’s future.”
Forestry Chief Christine Fejeran thanked the many first-time volunteers and those who shared the event online: “You are part of the effort and we applaud you too.”
The department credited Malesso’ Mayor Franklin Champaco with logistical support, calling him the planting season’s MVP. The newly planted trees will help reduce wildfires, flooding, invasive species and the soil erosion that damages coral and fisheries, the department said.
The next As Gadao planting events are set for September 26, October 24 and November 21. Volunteers can contact the Forestry and Soil Resources Division at (671) 300-7977 or Forestry@doag.guam.gov.
