Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps sprouts new skills during Farm to Table workshop at UOG Triton Farm

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The Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC) continues to collect seeds of wisdom this week at the UOG Triton Farm in Dededo.  

The week of June 2, 2025 was a busy one for members of the G3CC’s fifth cohort who learned about the Farm to Table process under the guidance of UOG Triton Farm Manager, Jessica Nangauta,  

While at the UOG Triton Farm, the G3CC learned different horticulture skills like air layering, a type of cloning technique used to propagate plants by encouraging root growth on branches while still attached to the parent plant.  

The team also learned how to harvest, husk and process coconuts, resulting in the G3CC extracting seventy-four ounces of fresh coconut oil from about eighty coconuts.  

Additionally, the G3CC learned how to maintain an aquaponics garden which included the removal of Rhinella marina, an invasive amphibian species in Guam commonly known as the cane toad.  

To close out the week and celebrate the team effort between G3CC and UOG Triton Farm team, both groups gathered to prepare fresh produce and livestock for a special Farm to Table lunch experience, a culmination of lessons and hand-on experience shared throughout the week. 

WEEK IN REVIEW: Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps learns about the waste system on Guam

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Members of the University of Guam’s Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC) recently dedicated an intensive week to understanding the complexities of waste management on the island, collaborating with industry leader Guahan Waste Control. This immersive experience is a critical component of the G3 Conservation Corps program, which aims to cultivate the next generation of environmental leaders and a skilled workforce for Guam’s emerging green economy.

Throughout the week, the cohort delved into the pressing waste issues facing Guam, from the Layon Landfill’s operational intricacies to the challenges of recycling and the pervasive problem of illegal dumping. Guahan Waste Control, a key player in the island’s waste management sector, provided the corps members with an invaluable behind-the-scenes look at their operations, including their materials sorting facility.

G3CC member Eyana Pereda was shocked, “As much as it was a great experience and a fun team to work with, the whole time I couldn’t shake the bewilderment of being surrounded by so much wastefulness.”

Pereda believes that the eye-opening experience is something everyone Guam needs to have.  

“You hear about these ongoing problems regarding our waste all the time, but to actually come eye to eye and in some cases literally be neck deep in it was definitely something I think everyone needs to experience if we want any real change within our community and culture around how we handle our trash,” she said.  “[It is] not just the amount [of trash] we produce, but the care and effort we put into sorting it the right way before it even arrives at the waste center.”

During their time with Guahan Waste Control, the G3 Conservation Corps members learned about the logistical and economic hurdles of recycling on an island, the importance of proper waste segregation, and the environmental impacts of different waste streams. Discussions also likely covered Guam’s ambitious goals towards a circular economy and zero waste, as outlined in various local initiatives.

Guam continues to grapple with significant waste challenges, including a high volume of food waste, the environmental legacy of the now-closed Ordot Dump, and the ongoing need to extend the lifespan of the Layon Landfill. Initiatives like the G3 Conservation Corps are vital in developing local expertise and fostering a community-wide commitment to addressing these issues.

The hands-on training received by the corps members is designed to prepare them for careers in sustainability-focused fields. By engaging directly with organizations like Guahan Waste Control, they gain not only technical knowledge but also a deeper appreciation for the collaborative efforts required to protect Guam’s fragile environment. 



Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps now recruiting for fifth season

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The University of Guam’s Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC) is now accepting applications for its upcoming fifth season. This five-month program provides twelve adults with valuable hands-on experience in environmental conservation and sustainability to develop the workforce for the emerging green economy.  

Participants in the G3CC will engage in a variety of projects focused on environmental protection, restoration and sustainability, including:

 

  • Agriculture and Aquaculture
  • Circular Economy and Zero Waste
  • Ocean Conservation
  • Invasive Species Management
  • Energy Conservation and Renewable Energy
  • Watershed Restoration and Reforestation
  • Island Beautification

 

In addition to gaining valuable work experience, G3CC participants will receive professional development training, including leadership, teamwork skills, career readiness training, first aid certification and more. 

Austin Shelton, Ph.D., the director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, who facilitate the G3CC program, says the program’s success has enabled its continuation and expansion.

“This will be our fifth cohort of participants with this original conservation corps, but since we launched, the impact multiplies with many graduates now employed with different agencies, groups and businesses in the green economy,” said Shelton. “The program expanded to include additional opportunities in the G3 Local2030 Islands Network Conservation Corps, the G3 Art Corps, and the G3 Kupu Corps.” 

According to Shelton, nearly 100 people have graduated from one of the G3 Conservation Corps since the program’s launch in 2021.  

“This program is perfect for people who are looking to make a change in their career path, for those who are ready o rededicate themselves to sustainability on Guam, or those who have always had a connection to sustainability and want to grow those skills,” added Shelton.  

The selected applicants will receive continuing education credits from the UOG Global Learning and Engagement Office (GLE) and a stipend of $1300.00 every two-weeks.  Two supervisors will also be selected from the applicants, who will receive $1500.00 bi-weekly.  

Applications are being accepted until January 13, 2025 via the official program website at www.guamgreengrowth.org.  Information about eligibility and more can be found on the website as well.

UOG celebrates the graduation of the fourth Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps

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The University of Guam (UOG) and the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC) celebrated a milestone this month with the graduation of its fourth cohort. The ceremony, held at the Governor’s Complex in Adelup, honored the accomplishments of twelve individuals  from all walks of life who dedicated five months to hands-on conservation and sustainability projects across the island.

According to Austin Shelton, Ph.D., the director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, the G3CC is a collaborative initiative between the University of Guam and various community partners, aimed at developing a skilled workforce for Guam’s emerging green economy.

Participants in the program receive comprehensive training in environmental science, conservation practices, leadership development and earn continuing education credits from UOG.

This year’s cohort undertook a range of projects in focus areas including invasive species removal with the Department of Agriculture, aquaculture with UOG Sea Grant, agriculture with UOG Triton Farms, watershed restoration with the Guam Restoration of Watersheds initiative, limestone forest work and plant identification with Tåno, Tåsi, Todu, and more.

“This is the start of this group’s legacy for the green economy in Guam,” said Shelton.  “Through the program they have made major impacts like collecting 13,483 lbs. of trash and helping to harvest 135 lbs. of locally grown produce. It is a great way to begin their work in conservation for our island.”

Other impacts of the cohort included:

  • Collecting and recycling over 31,000 aluminum cans.
  • Preparing 200 feet of erosion control devices.
  • Planting over 340 seeds and seedlings.
  • Conducting 19 village roadside cleanups or beautification projects.
  • Maintaining nearly 4 miles of firebreaks. 

“This program has affirmed our purpose in this world, which is to continue pursuing opportunities for the long-term environmental prosperity of the islands,” said G3CC graduate Thomås Benavente. “The conservation corps has mentally, physically and emotionally prepared us for what’s to come within our green economy.”

The graduation ceremony featured remarks from Lt. Gov. Joshua Tenorio, Vice-Speaker of the Guam Legislature Tina Muña Barnes, Senator Joe San Agustin and acting UOG Senior Vice PresidentMarlena Pangelinan, who encouraged the group to continue their work in conservation and sustainability.

“The University of Guam is proud to partner with this corps in cultivating the next generation of stewards for our island,” said Pangelinan. “As you graduate today, I encourage you to continue to be ambassadors for our island. Share your knowledge, inspire others, and work together to create a sustainable future for Guam.”

G3CC Recycles Its Way to a Greener Liberation Day

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The University of Guam’s Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC) brought environmental responsibility to the forefront of the 80th Guam Liberation Day Parade.  This year’s festivities weren’t just a celebration of freedom, but also a promotion of a sustainable future through a territory-wide recycling effort.

G3CC members stationed themselves along the parade route, enthusiastically collecting recyclables from the crowds.  This initiative tackled a major challenge for Guam: managing waste generated during large events.  To address this, the Corps focused on collecting aluminum cans, a readily recyclable material.

But the G3CC’s efforts went beyond collection.  To bolster recycling and provide an extra perk for participants, the Corps distributed free can cages to all registered parade participants.  These cages not only made can collection easier but also served as a reminder of the importance of recycling.

Phillip Cruz, coordinator for the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps, highlighted the initiative’s goals. “Our goal this Liberation Day was to significantly increase recycling and divert cans from landfills,” Cruz said.  The collected cans were donated to schools in partnership with IRecycle, a program that allows schools to raise funds by cashing in on recycled aluminum.

The G3CC collected an estimated total of over 7,500 cans throughout the 80th Guam Liberation Day celebration, successfully diverting them from the landfill

The project’s impact extended beyond immediate environmental benefits, according to Dr. Austin Shelton, director of UOG’s Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant. “This initiative combined environmental responsibility with community outreach and education,” Shelton said.  “By incorporating recycling into the festivities, we weren’t only cleaning up after the parade, but also promoting a culture of sustainability on our island.”

The G3CC’s Liberation Day recycling effort served as a shining example of how Guam could celebrate its heritage while safeguarding its beautiful environment for future generations.

UOG’s 4th conservation corps boasts diverse lineup

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What do an accountant, former on-air personality, architect, and a human resources professional have in common?  

 

They are passionate about the future of our island and entered the newest cohort of the Guam Green Growth (G3) Conservation Corps, a workforce development program by the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, and the G3 initiative. 

 

Now on its 4th cycle, the program introduced its 12 new members on Tuesday, February 27, at the UOG Global Learning and Engagement Building. 

 

Addressing the new G3 Conservation Corps, UOG Senior Vice President and Provost Sharleen Santos Bamba, Ph.D. said, “You represent the next generation of environmental leaders. Your enthusiasm commitment, and thirst for knowledge inspire us all. The next five months will be a journey of discovery, hard work, and profound personal growth.” 

 

Most members of the 4th cohort come from industries outside the environmental and conservation sectors. Some of them have already established careers in their respective fields but are interested in exploring opportunities within the emerging green economy.  

 

The members of the new G3 Conservation Corps are: 

 

  • Nate Aguon (Barrigada) 
  • Thomas Benavente (CNMI, Tamuning) 
  • Makeo Blas (Mangilao) 
  • Telel Blesam (Palau) 
  • Jaevynn Cruz (Talo’fo’fo) 
  • Rico Lizama (Yona) 
  • Beato Manglona (Tamuning) 
  • Jem Miller (Dededo) 
  • Hannah Perez (Barrigada) 
  • Tristan Quintanilla (Hågat) 
  • Emma Sánchez (Dededo) 
  • Loren Villanueva (Yigo) 
 

 

At the event, the G3 Conservation Corps members shared their motivation for joining the program. 

Quintanilla, a policy analyst for four years, stated, “I believe that this is a way to merge the past and the future. As a researcher, I would often look at problems, and search for solutions. However, I noticed a significant difference between learning about things and being able to practice them. So, I am looking forward to that.” 

Perez, with a background in human resources, expressed, “Ever since I was younger, I’ve been passionate about addressing climate change because I know it directly impacts our island. Rising sea levels, and trash in the ocean, you see that every day.” 

 

UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Director Austin Shelton, Ph.D., told the new G3 Conservation Corps that diverse opportunities are available to graduates of the program.  

 

“Whether your interest lies in aquaculture, agriculture, or even nighttime efforts to catch brown tree snakes, there are immediate job openings in these areas. Many opportunities are available right here at the Research Corporation of the University of Guam, as well as through our various local and federal agency partners,” he said. 

 

Shelton added that most of the members of the previous cohorts had achieved success in pursuing their aspirations after the program. “Over 70 percent of our graduates have transitioned into green jobs or have chosen further training, all closely aligned with the green economy.” 

Throughout the five-month program, the G3 Conservation Corps will undergo training and gain exposure in various sustainability-related areas, including agriculture and aquaculture, island beautification, invasive species removal, reforestation, circular economy practices, recycling, and renewable energy.  

 

They will also have the opportunity to engage with diverse environmental organizations and initiatives on Guam and the rest of the Micronesia region.   

 

After completing the program, the G3 Conservation Corps will earn up to 80 continuing education units (CEUs) from UOG Global Learning and Engagement. 

 

The first G3 Conservation Corps program  was launched in 2021. 

 

 

 

 

WHAT IS G3?   

 

The UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant facilitates the  Guam Green Growth, or G3 initiative, in cooperation with the Office of the Governor of Guam and the G3 Working Group, whose members represent all sectors of society. With the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals and G3 Action Framework as a guide, G3 develops tangible solutions to sustainability challenges and contributes to a green economy for the island region.

Guam Green Growth looking for 4th Conservation Corps

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Applications are now open for the fourth cohort of the Guam Green Growth (G3) initiative’s Conservation Corps program (G3CC). 

This five-month workforce development program is designed to prepare individuals for careers in the growing green economy while providing valuable hands-on experience in environmental conservation and sustainability initiatives. 

“We are excited to begin the fourth season of the G3 Conservation Corps,” said Austin J. Shelton, PhD, Director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant. “This program is preparing our people to enter the growing field of green jobs and help create a sustainable future for our island at the same time.” 

The G3CC program immerses participants in a comprehensive training curriculum that encompasses a wide range of sustainability topics, including: agriculture and aquaculture, island beautification, invasive species removal, reforestation, circular economy, recycling, and renewable energy. 

Through a blend of classroom instruction, hands-on field experiences, and mentorship opportunities, the program empowers participants to: 

  • Develop the skills and knowledge needed to secure employment in the green economy. 

  • Contribute to Guam’s sustainability goals through active engagement in environmental conservation projects. 

  • Gain a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between human activities and the environment. 

  • Promote environmental stewardship and sustainability within their communities. 

In addition to gaining valuable skills and experience, G3CC participants also have the opportunity to earn up to 80 continuing education units (CEUs) from the UOG Global Learning and Engagement program and receive a stipend for their participation. They will also gain exposure to diverse environmental organizations and initiatives on Guam and the region.  

The G3 initiative spearheads the G3CC program in collaboration with the Office of the Governor of Guam and the G3 Working Group, which comprises representatives from all sectors of society. Guided by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the G3 Action Framework, G3 formulates tangible solutions to sustainability challenges and fosters a green economy for the island region. 

Apply online at http://guamgreengrowth.org. Applications close on January 19, 2024. 

Shelton: Peace and sovereignty go hand in hand with island sustainability

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Guam’s path to sovereignty and peace includes producing more locally, trading better, and circularizing the economy, according to Austin Shelton, PhD, Director of the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant. 

Shelton mentioned these points in his keynote address at the “Fanhita: Security, Sovereignty, and the Path to Peace” conference recently organized by the Commission on Decolonization. 

He highlighted the island’s significant reliance on imported goods and the urgent need to transition towards a more sustainable and self-reliant future. 

Guam currently imports over 90% of its food and goods, a situation that poses immense challenges in terms of food security, economic stability, and environmental sustainability. Shelton emphasized that the recent Typhoon Mawar served as a stark reminder of the island’s vulnerability due to its overdependence on external resources. 

“When typhoon Mawar hit the island a few months ago, it was a good chance to remember how we used to do all of these things and prepare,” he said. 

To address these challenges and foster a more resilient and sustainable Guam, Shelton outlined a three-pronged approach: producing more locally, trading better, and circularizing. 

Enhancing local food production is crucial for Guam’s food security and economic independence. Shelton highlighted several initiatives undertaken by the Guam Green Growth (G3) Initiative to promote local agriculture and aquaculture, including the partnership with Guahan Sustainable Culture for the community gardens.  

Shelton also mentioned promoting aquaculture and aquaponics systems to increase local seafood production and supporting local farmers through education, technical assistance, and market access opportunities. 

Guam’s strategic location can be leveraged to enhance trade partnerships and negotiate better trade deals, according to Shelton. He cited Singapore as an example of an island nation that has successfully diversified its trade network, ensuring a stable supply of essential goods. 

He also emphasized the importance of political cohesion and collective bargaining power to negotiate fairer trade agreements that benefit Guam’s economy and food security. “We need solidarity and determination to fight for our collective best interests as an island,” he said. 

Adopting circular economy principles can significantly reduce Guam’s reliance on imported goods and minimize waste generation. Shelton advocated for initiatives that promote recycling, waste reduction programs, and encourage the reuse and repurposing of materials. He also supported the development of local industries that utilize recycled materials. 

Shelton said the G3 Conservation Corps plays a pivotal role in preparing the island’s workforce for the emerging green economy. Through hands-on training and education, the program equips participants with the skills and knowledge to pursue careers in agriculture, aquaculture, recycling, and circular economy sectors. 

He said the G3 Conservation Corps has made significant contributions to Guam’s sustainability efforts, including aiding in typhoon recovery efforts after Typhoon Mawar and disaster preparedness initiatives, among others. 

UOG and University of Hawai’i Sea Grant partner to expand Green Growth Initiative

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The University of Guam announced the expansion of the Green Growth Initiative across the Western Pacific. A $1.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of State via the NOAA National Sea Grant College Program will strengthen the partnership between the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant and the University ofHawai’iSea Grant College Program. 

 UOG made the announcement on Tuesday, September 12, during the National Sea Grant Association meeting at the Hyatt Regency Guam. This marked the first time that Guam hosted the biannual meeting, bringing together over 70 directors and representatives from nearly all of the 34 Sea Grant programs nationwide. 

The new grant will support efforts to expand the scope of Local2030 Islands Network and UOG’s Guam Green Growth Initiative to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of Palau, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands. 

During the press conference, Austin Shelton, Director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, emphasized the potential impact of this collaboration, stating, “This seed funding will enable our island neighbors to hire their own Green Growth coordinators. We aspire to collectively strengthen our capacity across Micronesia and the Pacific to advance sustainable development.” 

Shelton further highlighted the value of knowledge exchange with regional partners, saying, “Our island neighbors are at the forefront of sustainability, and this partnership offers an exciting opportunity to expand capacity and knowledge exchange throughout the Pacific.” 

Randall V. Wiegand, Acting President of UOG, acknowledged the transformative potential of this collaboration, stating, “This partnership expands the ways we, as a region, can support each other in advancing the green economy and addressing climate change.” 

Galvin S. Deleon Guerrero, President of the Northern Marianas College and one of the program partners, said the partnerships “are essential to our collective efforts to improve the world.” 

“Our aspirations are as expansive as the Pacific our ancestors traversed, and as profound as the Marianas Trench,” Deleon Guerrero added. 

Darren Lerner, President of the Sea Grant Association and Director of the UH Sea Grant College Program, commended the long-standing partnership between the two universities. He praised UOG for its commitment to excellence, emphasizing the strength derived from the dedication of every program to this shared goal.

Jonathan Pennock, Director of the National Sea Grant College Program, also recognized the impressive growth of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant program in a relatively short period of time. He emphasized its strong connection to the community and praised the program for effectively carrying forward the mission of Sea Grant. 

In 2022, UOG achieved Sea Grant Institutional Status following a unanimous recommendation from the National Sea Grant Advisory Board and official designation from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) senior leadership.

The National Sea Grant College Program is a collaborative effort between universities and NOAA. It is dedicated to enhancing the practical utilization and conservation of coastal and marine resources, with a vision of fostering a sustainable economy and environment. The Sea Grant network comprises more than 3,000 scientists, engineers, public outreach experts, educators, and students.

UOG Celebrates Third G3 Conservation Corps Graduation 

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The Guam Green Growth (G3) initiative at the University of Guam celebrated the graduation of its third conservation corps cohort on Friday, August 11, at the Sinajana Community Arts Hall.  

The innovative workforce development program is designed to prepare the island for the emerging green economy. Launched in collaboration with the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and UOG Global Learning and Engagement in 2021, the G3 Conservation Corps program is a full-time training experience spanning five months each year.   

Participants received instruction on a wide range of sustainability topics, covering areas such as agriculture, aquaculture, island beautification, invasive species removal, reforestation, circular economy, ocean conservation, and renewable energy.  

The latest batch of G3 Conservation Corps members who successfully completed the comprehensive program include Maria Balbin, Jace Blas, Zeriah Blas, Cassie Bordallo, Michael Herbert, Michael Jude Hernandez, Connor Law, Laura Layan, Javier Mercado, Ciara Taijeron, Michael Torres, and Elisa Rose Padilla.  

“We’ve learned a lot here and from all of our partners,” said Balbin, who served as corps crew supervisor. 

Also at the graduation, UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez hailed the graduates as conservation corps warriors. “You are a special group of conservation leaders. You represent us as ambassadors to our youth and to members of our community through your experiences…Congratulations! We look forward to seeing you do amazing things.” 

Governor Lou Leon Guerrero also commended the graduates. “The 12 of you are very significant to the conservation of our island. You have gone through an experience that we will probably never go through,” she said.  

Meanwhile, Austin Shelton, UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant director, highlighted the unique experience of the third batch of conservation corps. He said the process prepared the corps for the environmental challenges that are occurring in the region and the rest of the world. 

“This season was a little bit different. We had an unexpected typhoon, and we had to do things differently. You got on-the-job training for what is becoming the new reality. Climate change is here, and we are seeing an increasing frequency of storms and rising sea levels,” he said. 

Shelton also mentioned the impactful multiplier effect generated by the G3 Conservation Corps program, especially in partnership development. For example, he said the program facilitated the establishment of the G3 Art Corps and the newly formed G3 Kupu Corps collaboration with Kupu, a Hawai’i’-based youth leadership development program, now providing eight additional year-long corps positions in Guam and CNMI.   

He also underscored G3’s ongoing commitment to expand the movement. He said current efforts of the program attracted new federal funding, enabling the future development of G3 partnerships across Micronesia and the Pacific. 

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