Message from the:
Director, Bureau of Statistics
Guam’s tropical waters are home to an incredibly diverse group of fish and marine life. Its shorelines are a playground for family picnics and its waters attract swimmers and beach enthusiasts. If you’ve ever gone diving at the Piti Bomb Holes, snorkeling in Ypao Beach, swimming at Achang Bay, hiking near Sasa Bay, or maybe camping at Pati Point, you’ve probably been one of the visitors at Guam’s Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). Established in 1997, the MPAs or marine preserves play a critical role in the restoration of fish populations, healthy coral communities, and restoring health to marine ecosystems. The MPAs also serve as a protection of endangered species and their habitats. Over 10% of Guam’s coastline has been set aside in five marine preserves: Tumon Bay, Piti Bomb Holes, Sasa Bay, Achang Reef Flat, and Pati Point.
This issue of Man, Land, and Sea tries to put into perspective the importance of Marine Protected Areas and how you can help. The Department of Agriculture’s Division of Aquatic and Wildlife Resources (DAWR) is responsible for overseeing and enforcing MPAs. It is our hope that you will better understand DAWR’s role in protecting and preserving Guam’s natural resources for all of Guam’s people to continue to enjoy.
ALBERTO A. LAMORENA V.