Northern Guam Soil and Water Conservation District Engages Students at 2026 UOG Charter Day Land Grant Festival

Left to right: Savannah Vargas Garcia, Special Projects Coordinator, and Jaevynn Cruz, Conservation Technician with the Northern Guam Soil and Water Conservation District.

Mangilao, Guam — Northern Guam Soil and Water Conservation District participated in the annual Land Grant Festival during Charter Day at the University of Guam on March 5, 2026, hosting an educational booth that welcomed students, educators, and community members from across the island.

The Land Grant Festival is one of the key highlights of Charter Day, celebrating the university’s role as a land-grant institution dedicated to education, research, and community outreach. The event brings together local organizations, researchers, and educators to showcase programs that support agriculture, environmental stewardship, and sustainable resource management throughout Guam.

Students from Untalan Middle School, Guahan Charter Academy, George Washington High School, and M.U. Lujan Elementary School were among the many visiting schools that attended the festival. The event provided students with the opportunity to explore exhibits, learn about agricultural and environmental initiatives, and interact with organizations working to protect Guam’s natural resources.

At the District’s booth, students participated in an interactive Jeopardy trivia game focused on soil conservation, water protection, agriculture, and Guam’s unique ecosystem. The activity encouraged students to test their knowledge while learning about the importance of protecting land and water resources for future generations. Students enthusiastically participated in the game, answering questions and competing with their peers in a fun and engaging educational environment.

Team members from the Northern Guam Soil and Water Conservation District were also available throughout the event to speak with teachers, students, and community members about the District’s mission and programs. These conversations highlighted the importance of conservation practices such as soil health management, watershed protection, and responsible land use.

The Land Grant Festival featured a wide variety of attractions and educational opportunities for attendees. Visitors had the chance to purchase locally grown plants, fresh produce, and locally produced honey, as well as sample BBQ and value-added food products prepared by local programs and partners. In addition, guests were invited to tour the university’s research facilities, including the Soil and Pomology laboratories, explore the newly reopened Insect Library, and visit the hoop-house greenhouses used for agricultural research and crop production.

One of the most popular attractions during the festival included an interactive wildlife experience where visitors could learn more about Guam’s environment and even safely hold a live Brown tree snake while learning about the ecological challenges the species has presented to the island.

Participation in the Land Grant Festival reflects the continued commitment of the Northern Guam Soil and Water Conservation District to promote conservation education and strengthen partnerships with local schools, community organizations, and agricultural leaders. By engaging students and community members through outreach activities and educational events, the District aims to inspire greater awareness of Guam’s natural resources and the importance of protecting them.

The District extends its appreciation to the University of Guam for hosting this year’s Charter Day celebration and providing an opportunity for organizations across the island to come together in support of education, agriculture, and environmental stewardship.

For more information on future educational outreach and conservation programs, please contact Northern Guam Soil & Water Conservation District at 6717352014. 

By Rosanna Rosario, Outreach Specialist