GROW conducts youth outreach with Malesso summer students

The University of Guam’s Guam Restoration of Watersheds (GROW) initiative recently partnered with the Malesso Summer Camp for a reforestation training aimed at revitalizing the island’s natural resources and preventing further erosion and degradation of the Ugum watershed.

The collaboration brought together 22 young campers and community volunteers to plant 50 mulberry tree seedlings at the Dan Dan, Inalahan site.

The event was part of GROW’s ongoing efforts to restore and protect Guam’s watersheds, which are vital for the island’s water supply, ecosystem health, and flood prevention. By planting trees, participants helped to improve soil quality, prevent erosion, and provide habitat for wildlife.

According to GROW research associate Laura Layan, the campers were very enthusiastic and ready to learn.

“The kids were having so much fun and asked a lot of questions,” said Layan. “We took them on a short tour, and they enjoyed it.  They were really interested in agroforestry.”

Layan says that plans are in motion for the group to begin cultivating and planting fruit trees in the area to assist with food security while continuing restoration work.

In addition to tree planting, the event included educational activities about the importance of watersheds and the benefits of native plants. GROW encouraged the students to continue their involvement in environmental conservation.

“The earlier the students know about the conservation efforts, the sooner they can help us by keeping our land clean and helping with other projects promoting sustainability,” added Layan.