The University of Guam (UOG) and the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC) celebrated a milestone today with the graduation of its fourth cohort. The ceremony, held at the Governor’s Office 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 Develop 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 pounds 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, and 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 graduate Thomås Benevente. “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 Lieutenant Governor Joshua Tenorio, Vice-Speaker of the Guam Legislature Tina Muña Barnes, Senator Joe San Agustin and acting Senior Vice President of the University of Guam Marlena 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.”