Symposium Kicks Off with Focus on Local Food Systems
The 2nd Annual Agricultural Symposium, themed 'Rooted In Resilience: Growing Food, Farms and Community,' commenced this week at the Guam Museum in Hagåtña. This three-day event brings together a diverse group of stakeholders, including farmers, educators, government agencies, and community members, to address critical issues surrounding Guam's food security and sustainability. The symposium aims to strengthen the island's food systems in the face of challenges such as typhoons and pandemics.
Addressing Guam's Food Import Reliance
A central concern for the symposium is Guam's heavy reliance on imported food, with approximately 90 percent of the island's food supply coming from off-island. This dependency contributes to higher prices and significant food insecurity. Jenelyn Abinales, District Manager for the Northern Guam Soil and Water Conservation District, highlighted the unique challenge Guam faces, noting that the extent of food importation often 'baffles' those in other regions. The symposium seeks to bridge this gap by fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration among participants.
Key Discussions and Participant Insights
Discussions at the symposium are centered on practical solutions and innovative approaches to enhance local agriculture. Participants are engaging in farmer panels where experienced farmers and ranchers share their stories and insights. The event also features presentations on vital topics such as water catchment systems, composting, and emerging agricultural technologies like hydroponics and aquaponics. Governor Lou Leon Guerrero delivered welcoming remarks, reflecting on the pandemic's impact and the community's resilient response in cultivating backyard gardens. Vice Speaker Tony Ada emphasized that agriculture is more than a livelihood, calling it a 'legacy' that unites the community in nourishing the land.
Collaborative Efforts for a Resilient Future
The symposium is a collaborative effort led by the Northern Guam Soil and Water Conservation District, in partnership with Guahan Sustainable Culture, the University of Guam, and the Guam Department of Agriculture. Senator Shelly Calvo underscored the importance of the gathering in celebrating the 'unseen work' that sustains Guam's food system, from soil and water conservation to community collaboration. The event aims to inspire and equip attendees with the knowledge and connections needed to cultivate a more food-secure and resilient future for Guam.
5 Comments
Coccinella
90% import reliance is a huge problem. Is this event actually scalable enough?
Africa
It's great to see so many stakeholders discussing food security, but the challenge of shifting from 90% imports is immense and will require sustained, long-term funding beyond just symposiums.
Bermudez
Acknowledging the 'unseen work' is crucial for morale, but concrete policy changes and financial incentives are also desperately needed to truly support and expand Guam's agricultural sector.
Comandante
These discussions happen every year. Show us the results, not just the ideas.
Mariposa
While the focus on local food systems is commendable, implementing these solutions across the island will face significant hurdles like land availability, water resources, and attracting enough new farmers.