The Guåhan community came together to mourn the death of the last adult håyun lågu tree, a native species decimated by non-native invaders. A memorial ceremony organized by the Climate Change Alliance honored the tree, also known as Mother Tree, with traditional healers and experts in attendance. The tree’s significance was highlighted by the Nelson family, who have a historic connection to it. Dr. Else discussed genetic research on the håyun lågu tree and its relatives, expressing hope for their future and the importance of community involvement in conservation efforts.
The event also highlighted ongoing initiatives to combat invasive species on the island, including recent volunteer efforts to search for and remove brown tree snakes. The National Park Service’s Asan Beach Restoration kickoff event saw community volunteers successfully catch and dispatch snakes, with additional events planned for the future. Additionally, funding from the National Audubon Society will support continued efforts to search for snakes on Dånó Island.
The community’s dedication to preserving Guåhan’s biocultural diversity and interconnectedness with the forest was evident in the turnout and support for these events. As the holiday season approaches, the message to “start small, start now” emphasizes the importance of individual actions in protecting the island’s natural treasures. The ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the need to protect and preserve the native plants and animals that are essential to the island’s ecosystem.
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Photo credit www.guampdn.com
