(MINA) — As communities across the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands mark Earth Day this month, a growing movement on Saipan is reminding residents that caring for the environment can start as simply as planting a tree. Have you ever sat under the shade of a sprawling tree, watched a bird dart between the branches, or picked a fruit from a tree? In the Mariana Islands, trees beautify the landscape, sustain life by providing oxygen, shelter our wildlife and people, anchor soil during storms, and root communities in culture and identity. Bring Back Our Trees or BBOT is an initiative to restore both urban and forested areas across Saipan by planting native and agroforestry tree species that benefit both people and wildlife. This year, the campaign has an ambitious goal: plant 700 trees across public and private spaces while raising awareness about the vital role trees play in island life.
That effort is already taking root. In partnership with CNMI Forestry and the CNMI Green Growth Initiative, Mariana Islands Nature Alliance has launched the program starting at local schools, engaging students at Dandan Middle School, Francisco Mendiola Sablan Middle School, and Saipan Southern High School through presentations and tree planting activities. The species planted range from delicious fruit-bearing trees like soursop, lemmai, jackfruit, and calamansi to culturally and ecologically significant natives such as da’ok, talisai, langiti, and gulos.
Along with expanding the canopy, the campaign is also investing in the next generation of environmental stewards. MINA has recruited 7 new Tasi Watch Rangers who have progressed the initiative. This year marked the launch of the program’s first scholarship initiative, awarding 10 Island Stewardship Scholars to support career pathways in natural resource management. So far, 122 trees have been planted across Saipan, with more community planting events planned in the months ahead. “It takes a village” is what the campaign highlights, pointing to the long-term commitment needed to ensure these trees thrive and continue to benefit future generations.
As Environmental Awareness Month continues, MINA encourages the community to take part in keeping the Marianas green and resilient. Whether through tree planting, proper waste management, or learning more about local environmental challenges, every action counts. The BBOT campaign is part of MINA’s broader efforts to educate and empower our island communities to address pressing local environmental issues such as marine debris and waste management, the need for ecosystem and natural resources protection, and acting on changing environmental conditions.
For more information or to get involved, visit MINAPacific.org, email [email protected] or call the MINA Office at 670-233-7333.
MINA extends its deepest gratitude to its federal and local partners, government supporters, generous private sector supporters, and the tireless community volunteers who have supported over 20 years of environmental stewardship across the CNMI.
As Earth Day reminds us each year, protecting the environment isn’t a one-day effort: it’s a shared responsibility rooted in everyday action.
