The CNMI’s first on-island biosecurity forum is aimed at strengthening long-term partnerships rather than solving every challenge in a week, according to Natashia Tomokane, invasive species coordinator under the Department of Lands and Natural Resources. The event brought together local agencies, federal partners and international experts to confront a growing list of invasive species and emerging marine threats — while building a long-term system to protect the islands’ environment and way of life.
“This is the CNMI’s first hosted on-island biosecurity forum… we don’t have any standard to compare it to,” Tomokane said Tuesday. “The most important thing for us is to create connections and a platform to continue conversations.”
Held April 6–10 at the Crowne Plaza Resort, the forum brings together local agencies and global experts to address gaps in the Commonwealth’s biosecurity system, including limited fumigation capacity, staffing shortages and the need for better coordination with Customs and the Department of War.
Tomokane said the CNMI must be able to anticipate large shipments and prepare inspection resources accordingly, even when some military-related information is classified.
“We’re trying to build our ship on deep waters and sail it at the same time without drowning,” she said, adding that the forum is only the beginning of broader improvements in preventing and responding to invasive species.
