With a commitment to providing innovative solutions to improve food security, the Northern Marianas College Cooperative Research, Extension, and Education Services (NMC CREES) Agriculture Production Program is conducting soil sample collections in the Kagman Division of Land & Natural Resources (DLNR) Division of Agriculture (DoA) cultivated and uncultivated farm plots in an effort to assist the growing number of local food producers.
The soil samples will be randomly collected with a soil auger, a tool used specifically for soil sampling. Soil subsamples will be taken at 0 to 6 inch depths to represent the spatial variation and then will be composited in one sample per plot.
Beginning on February 24, 2025, samples will be obtained for about three weeks, and sent to a laboratory in the mainland United States to be tested for carbon, nutrients, and pH levels. Results will be available in approximately three weeks from receipt of the soil samples in the mainland.
Dr. Ares, who earned his masters degree in soil science, and a PhD in agronomy and soil science, noted the importance of the project, stating, “The sampling represents a major effort in terms of planning, field work, and analytical costs, but is worthy because it will enhance the knowledge of Saipan soils and provide farmers with diagnoses and recommendations to increase crop yield, quality, and marketability. ‘This echoes the United Nations “Healthy soils for a healthy life” motto.’”
”NMC-CREES is working with the Kagman farmers through KAFPA and DLNR Division of Ag (DOA) so that all farm plots in Kagman can use regenerative farming methods to produce high quality food for our local economy and community,” stated Patty Coleman, NMC-CREES Interim Dean.
As DLNR announced the recent proposed amendments to their farm plot use regulations, farmers are now required to create a viable farm plan in order to use a plot in Kagman. NMC-CREES will assist in the process by conducting these soil tests, formulating recommendations for soil improvement, and providing trainings for current and aspiring farmers in the CNMI. The continued collaboration between CNMI farmers, DOA and NMC-CREES opens an avenue for healthy and sustainable agriculture leading to improved food sovereignty.
For more information, visit the Division of Land & Natural Resources website at dlnr.cnmi.gov, or contact Dr. Adrian Ares at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (670) 237-6851.
Personnel of the Northern Marianas College Cooperative Research, Extension, and Education Services Agriculture Production Program and Division of Land & Natural Resources Division of Agriculture personnel will collect soil samples from 47 farm plots in Kagman for laboratory testing.