Six participants have begun a six-month path toward potential careers in watershed restoration and forestry with the launch of the second cohort of the University of Guam’s Guam Green Growth (G3) GROW Corps. Over the course of the program, they will learn skills ranging from seed collection and nursery propagation to reforestation, firebreak maintenance, and forest data collection.

Spearheaded by the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant (UOG CIS & Sea Grant) and the Guam Restoration of Watersheds (GROW) Initiative, this hands-on training aims to build a skilled local workforce that will advance the island’s green economy through reforestation and the restoration of the Ugum watershed.

“Everything we do on land has an effect on the ocean below,” said UOG CIS & Sea Grant Director Austin Shelton, Ph.D. He said that connection is at the heart of the GROW Corps, whose members restore native forests in the Ugumwatershed to reduce the soil and sediment that wash downstream and harm the island’s coral reefs. Shelton noted that the program draws many applications each cycle for only a few funded spots, reflecting strong interest in this work. Addressing the new members, he added, “You’re actually going to be leaving a legacy behind.” 

Monique Carriveau Storie, Ph.D., UOG vice provost for academic excellence, graduate studies, and online learning, told the new members that they are also stepping into leadership roles as part of the new GROW Corps. “You were chosen because you were seen as having leadership capability, and you were chosen because you were seen as being able to do difficult things and make them meaningful and make them fun,” she said.

The Guam Department of Agriculture also joined the launch. Its deputy director, Glenn C. Takai, pledged the agency’s continued support for the program. He said, “And as a partner, we are totally, totally dedicated to being able to work with you guys and to provide the support that you need from our end to yours.”

The new members shared what brought them to the program. “I feel like this program allows me to put myself in the door to giving back to the community,” said Besong. Meanwhile, Quinata wants to learn more about conservation and restoration and bring that knowledge back to his community.

“I joined this program to learn and be exposed to land conservation. And really be surrounded by like-minded people who want to serve their community,” Maratita said. Emul’s priorities include learning how to address pollution and beautify the community.

The program is funded by a subaward from the US Department of Agriculture Forest Service through the Meaningful Arboriculture to Limit Vulnerability in Urban and Community Areas (MALU) program under Kupu Hawai’i. After the first cohort’s success, the program was invited to a second year of funding. UOG CIS & Sea Grant Program Lead Phil Cruz said, “This funding will help just expand the program.” The funding also provides uniforms, boots, safety equipment and additional training.

Cruz urged participants to make the most of the program. “The next six months are a time for you to really grow as individuals, grow as professionals.” He added, “Also, look at this as a six-month interview process, right? You’re going to be interviewed for your future career.”