With a commitment to boosting local food production and ensuring economic development in the CNMI, the Northern Marianas College (NMC) Cooperative Research, Extension, and Education Services (CREES) Agriculture Production program welcomes the addition of two highly qualified agricultural economists to its team: Matthew Deleon Guerrero and Dr. Patrick Hoyle.
Agricultural Economist Matthew Deleon Guerrero has an extensive career that has centered around economic research and analysis specific to the CNMI. With master’s degrees in International Development and Applied Economics, Guerrero’s approach brings a broader perspective on development efforts worldwide, with a particular focus on the unique economic conditions of the CNMI. Guerrero’s research primarily focuses on developing data to assess the economic potential of domestic production.
“We have resources in the CNMI, but the use of those resources is governed by economic conditions and incentives that are not well understood,” Guerrero shares. His current efforts include a closer examination of pricing data to reveal insights into the factors of production and the preferences of the local population.
Guerrero’s research aims to equip farmers and local producers with the data they need to make informed decisions, improve income potential, and promote greater economic activity from local resources. By better understanding the dynamics of the CNMI’s economy, Guerrero hopes to target areas that require support, identify growth opportunities, and ultimately contribute to creating a resilient economy. “The goal is to help the CNMI economy become more resilient to the external shocks that have historically hindered growth,” Guerrero stated.
Looking to the future, Guerrero’s overarching research interest involves examining the viability of small island economies within the global economy. The unique limitations of small islands, such as restricted land and labor resources, present challenges to their global competitiveness and resilience against economic and climatic externalities. His research seeks to provide insights on how these communities can adapt and thrive in an ever-globalizing world.
Dr. Hoyle’s unique blend of business expertise and sustainability knowledge aligns with the NMC-CREES mission to promote local food security and environmentally friendly practices within CNMI agriculture. His planned research projects aim to bridge the gap between economic models and regenerative agricultural practices. As he begins his journey with the CREES Agriculture Production program, Dr. Hoyle will be working on various projects that combine both his economics and regenerative agriculture perspectives. With a unique dual approach from his business acumen and agricultural knowledge, Dr. Hoyle hopes to develop a regenerative agriculture curriculum for extension and take part in economic research that connects local producers to consumers. From an economist’s point of view, Dr. Hoyle will incorporate those ideas into the structure and functions of the agricultural sector in the CNMI. From a regenerative agriculture point of view, he will look into cover cropping for soil building, increasing crop yields, and decreasing dependence on chemical applications.
“I would love to see thriving local livestock, produce, and value-added products from the agricultural sector. Residents of the CNMI deserve healthy local food options as opposed to relying on imported goods. That seems a worthwhile endeavor,” said Dr. Hoyle.
NMC-CREES Interim Dean Patty Coleman expressed enthusiasm regarding the addition of Hoyle and Guerrero to the team.
“We are looking forward to the impactful work that Dr. Hoyle and Mr. Guerrero will contribute to the islands,” Coleman said.
“We are thrilled to welcome two outstanding and accomplished economists Matt and Dr. Patrick to our Proa Tribe,” said Dr. Galvin Deleon Guerrero, President of NMC.
“Their expertise will not only strengthen our diverse research work at CREES, but also contribute directly to the growth and sustainability of agriculture in the CNMI, enhancing the work of our farmers and improving our food security on our islands.”
Both Dr. Hoyle and Guerrero are passionate about addressing the unique challenges and opportunities facing the CNMI’s agricultural sector. Their research will provide valuable insights to support the development of a sustainable and economically viable local food system.