Nearly 100 community members from the University of Guam, partner agencies, and the public braved stormy weather to honor the importance of Guam’s native trees during the UOG Center for Island Sustainability’s Arbor Day event held Oct. 14.

CIS Associate Director Else Demeulenaere conveyed the importance of celebrating Guam’s endemic, or native, trees.

“Adding native trees to our urban landscape will provide the connectivity needed to protect our island’s ecosystems,” she said.

A discussion on cultural significance and traditional uses as well as a CHamoru poem contributed by a local sixth grader preceded the planting.

CIS also highlighted the importance roles trees have in the battle against climate change, explaining how they prevent erosion and help with storm water management.

UOG President Dr. Robert Underwood and Senior Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs Dr. Anita Borja Enriquez planted a Wengu tree in front of CIS while students added Kafu and Gausali plants to the CIS garden. The plants and trees were donated by the Guam Department of Agriculture.

Participants also enjoyed vegetarian dishes made with local vegetables decorated the table.

SEE PHOTOS FROM THE EVENT