THE Office of the Governor of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands is honored to announce the receipt of a $1,000,000 grant through the America the Beautiful Challenge. This award was made possible by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Fish and Wildlife Service, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the U.S. Department of Defense’s Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration Program, reflects a shared commitment to preserving and protecting our environment. The project is entitled, “Building Capacity for Inter-Island Resilience in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.”
This transformative funding will support vital restoration efforts to safeguard natural habitats, protect biodiversity, and sustain the rich ecological and cultural heritage of our islands. In alignment with this mission, the projects will incorporate Indigenous traditional knowledge, ensuring our conservation strategies honor the wisdom and practices passed down through generations.
“The natural beauty of the Northern Mariana Islands is a treasure we must protect for future generations,” said Gov. Arnold I. Palacios. “This grant not only allows us to restore critical ecosystems but also empowers us to do so by embracing the knowledge and traditions of our indigenous people. Together with our federal partners and community stakeholders, we are committed to making meaningful progress in conservation and sustainability.”
The Commonwealth is proud to stand alongside 42 states, 19 tribal nations, and three U.S. territories participating in this nationwide initiative. The America the Beautiful Challenge highlights the power of collaboration in addressing climate change and environmental challenges on a global scale.
As dedicated stewards of our islands, we pledge to use these resources responsibly, working transparently and inclusively with community stakeholders, local experts, and federal partners. Together, we will make significant strides in conservation and ensure that the natural beauty and bounty of the Northern Mariana Islands endure for future generations.
The project has four primary outcomes that focus on the restoration of native medicinal plants, community engagement, and the promotion of ecotourism between four municipalities within the Marianas archipelago. These outcomes will address urgent environmental issues while preserving traditional practices that have been passed down for generations.
The grant was written by the Office of Grants Management and State Clearinghouse through collaborative partnership of the four municipality mayors, department and division leadership, and the Office of the Governor. The grant will be administered by the OGM-SC and is expected to commence by March 2025.
Governor Palacios further extends his deepest gratitude to all partners involved for their commitment to safeguarding our shared environment.
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s 2024 year-round funding awarded 61 new grants totaling $122.4 million. More information could be obtained by the following URL: https://www.nfwf.org/sites/default/files/2024-12/NFWF-ATBC-20241113-GS.pdf
