SAIPAN — The CNMI’s first-ever Invasive Species Week will officially begin Monday morning with a proclamation signing ceremony in Susupe, according to an invitation sent to media partners by the CNMI Invasive Species Week Planning and Coordination Team.
The event is scheduled for today at 10am at the Multi-Purpose Center in Susupe. In an email to media partners, Natashia Tomokane said this year’s theme is “Protecting Our Borders, Resources, and Communities.”
Organizers said the theme reflects a shared responsibility across agencies and partners as the CNMI addresses the risks posed by invasive pests.
The planning team said invasive species threaten agriculture, forests, native species, the economy, and public health, and emphasized that prevention and early response are especially important for island communities, where the cost of control or eradication can be far higher once an invasive species becomes established.
Organizers also highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration, including policy, enforcement, education, outreach, inspection, and rapid response, and said partnership among government, community, and business leaders sends a unified message about protecting people and natural resources in the CNMI.
