PIFG Recognized by Guam Department of Agriculture Director

PIFG Highlighted in Guam Daily Post Article on Federal Regulation Challenges

The Pacific Islands Fisheries Group (PIFG) was recently featured in a Guam Daily Post article that explored how federal regulations are impacting local conservation and aquaculture efforts in Guam.

In the article, Guam Department of Agriculture Director Chelsa Muna highlighted a recent report by PIFG presented to the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council in Honolulu. The report emphasized how critical it is to listen to local community voices and their needs, challenges, and barriers to sustainable fishing and perpetuating their island culture and way of life.

Director Muna expressed concern that existing federal regulations — including those under the Endangered Species Act and marine critical habitat designations — often restrict local efforts to restore and manage their own marine resources. She pointed to challenges with activities like coral out planting and clam aquaculture, where federal permits can delay or prevent important conservation work.

Despite these hurdles, the article outlines several proactive initiatives Guam is pursuing, including a new mariculture hatchery, expanded conservation enforcement, and development of the island’s first coral reef fisheries management plan. These efforts reflect a commitment to sustainable, community-driven marine resource management rooted in local knowledge and cultural values.

To read the full article: Walter Ulloa, Guam Daily Post – April 6, 2025
“Agriculture head says federal regulations ‘restrict the work’”