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We are One Business Plan and Conservation Campaign

Micronesia Challenge

This page: Natural wonders are found even in the smallest riffles, such as this one in . ©KCSO. Cover: The Challenge seeks to permanently protect mountain to reef habitats and the species that live within them, such as these Yellow Tail Fusiliers. ©Ethan Daniels/Shutterstock.

Our wonders

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A future secured

We are One

Help protect some of the most pristine, splendid environments on .

The brings together three nations, two , thousands of communities, and hundreds of international partners all working as one to permanently and effectively protect over 14,000 square kilometers of marine and terrestrial habitats. By helping us reach our goal of raising $55 million for an endowment to support a wide range of annual conservation activities, you will help us protect thousands of unique and endemic species, and preserve a way of life for generations to come.

Please, give generously to the Micronesia Challenge. We are Micronesia We are One

Republic of

U.S. of

U.S. Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana

Federated States of Micronesia

Republic of the

Micronesia is alike, yet different. Isolated, yet connected. Small, but immense.

e are joined as one. For our children, and the .

500,000 people. 2,000 islands. 12 languages. 5 Micronesian jurisdictions.

From the top: Flags of Palau, Guam, CNMI, FSM, and RMI Underwater scenes such as this one highlight the variety of macro- and microfauna present on Micronesian Reefs. ©Isabelle Kuehn/Shutterstock. 30, 20, one Micronesia The Micronesia Challenge is a shared commitment to conserve at least 30% of near-shore marine resources and 20% of terrestrial resources across Micronesia by 2020.

One Micronesia 5 cattered across the northern part of the tropical Pacific are tiny gems, glowing emerald green amid azure waters. These gems, islands with magnificent environments and proud cultures, form our home, our one Micronesia. Micronesia is a diverse place, formed from thousands of islands, each unique and spectacular. From the deepest spot on earth to one of the rainiest mountains on the globe, each has special places that capture imaginations and touch the hearts of all who pass. Micronesia has beaches and , turtles and . Biological diversity in Micronesia is locally vital and globally precious.

For all that is different, Micronesia has much that is common. Our peoples share similar histories and traditions. Ancestors and cultural practices influence our daily lives. We are a people both old and new, rooted in tradition but embracing globalization and technology. Above all, the peoples of Micronesia share a common understanding that we are one with our earth and connected to our neighbors, that we rely on our lands and waters for sustenance, and that we must care for our environment and preserve its bounty for following generations. We are committed to our islands, our peoples, and our natural heritage.

The Micronesia Challenge is our way of expressing that commitment. By conserving at least 30% of our marine resources, and 20% of our terrestrial resources, we will ensure that those next generations will have the wonders that we inherited. We are fiercely proud of the successes we have achieved so far. From millions of dollars to thousands of square kilometers to hundreds of youth and adults, we are meeting commitments and exceeding expectations.

Our story is not complete. The forces that shape our islands and influence the way natural resources are used come from near and far. We know that it is crucial to seek solutions, ideas, and energies from around the world. We invite you to learn about our islands and our fascinating approaches to conservation. We ask you commit your hearts and resources to the Micronesia Challenge, just as we have committed our lives and efforts to these lands and waters. Be one with us.

1910 map of from “Meyers Konversations-Lexik on.” ©Bocman1973/Shutterstock Micronesia Challenge islands and partner sites. ©The Nature Conservancy. Used with permission. Conservation efforts in Micronesia are important globally and locally. Our conservation methods and studies guide conservation efforts around the world and our coordinated regional financing mechanisms are models for others. We have inspired similar Challenges elsewhere. Dancers in . Incorporating traditions into conservation is a priority throughout the . ©Ethan Daniels/Shutterstock

The Micronesia Challenge is a historic and collaborative effort to 2006, the governments of the Federated States of Micronesia, protect the natural and cultural splendors of a wide swath of the the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Republic of Palau, the North Pacific. Together, the people of Micronesia aim to effectively US Commonwealth of the Northern , and the US conserve more than 14,000 square kilometers of diverse natural Territory of Guam established the Micronesia Challenge, a region- habitats, spread across an of 6.7 million square kilometers. wide effort to permanently and effectively conserve at least 20% of The challenges of distance and mounting modern pressures are our land and 30% of our near-shore marine areas by 2020. great and growing. Our conservation efforts in Micronesia are as important globally The wonders of our islands, however, make all challenges pale in as they are locally. Our reefs and islands nurture migratory comparison. These islands are home to a wide variety of habitats and , including much of the world’s tuna. The conservation and some of the greatest in the world: at least 1,400 methods and studies supported by the Micronesia Challenge plant species, 1,300 fish species, 535 species, and hundreds are providing guidance to increase the resilience of coral reefs of birds, amphibians, insects, reptiles, and mammals. A strong around the world to rising and acidity. We share the and vibrant scientific culture in Micronesia increases knowledge knowledge and methods we are developing with others around of its biodiversity yearly. This diversity is both unique and globally the world through networks like the Global Island Partnership. important. Many of Micronesia’s species are found nowhere else in We contribute to and benefit from a growing global body of the world. knowledge and best practices to sustain biodiversity, preserve local cultures, support local , promote sustainable The people of Micronesia have cared for our for and fisheries, increase food security, control , and thousands of . In the face of increasing pressures from adapt to . climate change and development, Micronesians have begun a region-wide effort to blend traditional conservation practices With our shared cultural heritage and by collaborating with modern methods to protect these natural resources. In together, we have been able to accomplish greater things that , a protected mammal. ©MRHanson/Shutterstock Tuna is economically vital. ©Alexius Sutandio/Shutterstock Native orchid in old-growth . ©Tarita Holm/PCS

we could have individually. We are developing a region-wide that estimate key costs, funding sources, and remaining needs Biosecurity Plan and creating a region-wide sanctuary. to meet our conservation goals. We have identified funding We are developing campaigns to help our communities sources for approximately $4M of our $24M goal for one-time understand climate change and to promote conservation in establishment funding. We have current funding for more than culturally appropriate ways. We work with global partners to $11M of our $21M annual operational funding goal, and we have train conservation professionals across our region. Our Young identified another $7M in potential funding sources for annual Champions program has already mentored more than twenty of operations. We have distributed over $20M for conservation Micronesia’s next generation of conservation leaders. Through projects in grants and operational funds to our conservation these efforts and others, the Micronesia Challenge established a agencies and organizations. And we have built a $14.5M region- model for large-scale, collaborative conservation networks that wide conservation endowment that we hope to grow to more than has inspired similar efforts across the globe, including the Coral $55M by 2020. Our innovative sustainable financing mechanisms Triangle, the , and the Western Indian . - such as Green Fees charged to departing visitors, a multilateral endowment, and the establishment of the Micronesia Conservation We are progressing towards our goals. We have strengthened Trust, a central coordination and fundraising body - have sparked or established more than 150 conservation areas covering more the interest of entities as diverse at the and other than 6,800 square kilometers - 15% of our near-shore marine areas regional Challenges. and 16% of our land. We have developed protocols to ensure coordination and standardized evaluation. We have involved As we continue our progress towards our conservation and stakeholders at all levels - local, state, national and international financial goals, we need continued support from the across the - in these efforts. globe to support our work. We invite you to learn more about our islands and our work. We encourage you We have built a solid foundation to fund the considerable work to contribute to our efforts. We welcome ahead. We have developed overall and individual financial plans you to join us on our journey. One. One Micronesia 9 Palau’s Permanent Endowment Goal

$6,200,000

Palau’s are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. ©Amornthep/Shutterstock Republic of Palau Creating best practices for sustainable management

At the western edge of Micronesia, the Republic grove swamps, sandy beaches, and Micronesia’s of Palau has the highest reef and diversity largest freshwater lake, a UN Ramsar Convention in the region. Palau is home to a wide variety of Wetland of International Importance. Palau has terrestrial and marine environments, including hundreds of “rock islands,” tree-topped unique swamps and marine lakes, as well as the outcrops ranging from several thousand square coral reefs that have made Palau one of the world’s meters to a few dozen square meters. Palau’s top destinations for and . outer islands are that are critically important These diverse ecosystems host a range of plants nesting areas for birds and sea turtles. and animals, many of them endemic to Palau: nearly one fifth of Palau’s 1,200 plant species, 12 Palau’s conservation traditions trace back to the bird species, 12 reptile and amphibian species, bul, when Chiefs would declare areas or and 4 freshwater fish species are found in Palau species off limits to ensure the sustainability of and nowhere else. Palau also hosts many rare, the fisheries. In recent times, these traditionally threatened, and endangered species, including protected areas have been incorporated into Saltwater Crocodiles, , Micronesian a network of more than 40 protected areas Megapodes, and Golden . under state, national, and traditional protection. Community volunteers, who are critical These protected areas represent over 50% of to conservation efforts in Micronesia, helped with field work during an invasive Palau includes more than 200 islands comprising Palau’s nearshore marine areas and 20% of rodent eradication in . 459 square kilometers of land, spread over more Palau’s terrestrial areas. Palau continues to ©PCS than 600,000 square kilometers of ocean. The vol- improve management to achieve truly “effective canic island of Babeldoab, at 396 square kilome- conservation” in these areas. Palau is working to ters, is the second largest island in Micronesia. It hire, equip, and train additional conservation staff hosts vast undisturbed upland forests, thick man- to monitor, manage, and enforce these areas. One Micronesia 11 Palau Palau is also showcasing and documenting its Protected pay for the additional staff, research, and enforcement Palau Area Network (PAN) system, a comprehensive environmental needs to the MC’s effective conservation goals. Palau and political network that blends traditions with modern estimates that it can secure funding for about $2.7M of this management. The Micronesia Challenge has encouraged budget, through a variety of measures. State governments development of PANs elsewhere, using the Palau PAN as a charge entry fees at some sites. Conservation groups rely model. on donations, grants, and volunteers. Palau’s national government collects a “green fee” from departing visitors to Palau has led research to establish monitoring and research fund conservation through the PAN, which supports state methods for marine, terrestrial, and socioeconomic indicators. protected areas and conservation groups. This total of $2.7M Protocols developed by Palau’s conservation organizations in estimated funding leaves a $0.5M annual funding gap to and supported by the Micronesia Challenge have standardized meet Palau’s estimated $3.2M conservation budget. information collection across the region and enabled comparison of ecosystems separated by thousands of Palau is working to meet these funding needs in several ways. miles. These protocols have been shared globally through Palau seeks annual grants to support its annual conservation recognized scientific forums. The Palau International Coral operations – for example, more than half of Palau’s Reef Center has led research on how conservation efforts Environmental Quality Protection Board’s annual budget comes can increase the resilience of reefs to the stresses of climate from international grants. Similarly, Palau and its conservation change. Collaborative research by the Nature Conservancy organizations seek one-time grants to address the startup and community fishers is leading to promising small-scale costs of establishing new conservation sites and programs. coastal fisheries reform, such as self-imposed size limits and Finally, Palau and the Micronesia Challenge are building a community-based harvest rights. The cost-effective, data-poor permanent endowment to address Palau’s annual funding gap stock assessment tool developed through the research can through yearly disbursements. Thanks to grants from The be easily implemented by local organizations, and may assist Nature Conservancy, the United Nations, the Republic of fisheries reform throughout Micronesia. (), and Palau’s Green Fee program, Palau has already met the $6M endowment target it set in 2010. With additional Palau’s conservation organizations identified $0.9M in one-time fundraising to match a pledge from Conservation International, establishment costs needed to achieve the MC conservation Palau now hopes to grow its endowment to more than $10M goals, such as , trucks, ranger stations, and equipment by 2020, enabling further improvement to conservation for research, monitoring, and enforcement. Palau’s estimated practices and serving as a testament to the successes that annual conservation budget is $3.2M per . Of this total, can be realized with the collaborative Micronesia Challenge $2.1M is for current activities, while an additional $1.1M would approach. Leaves graphic ©Ihnatovich Maryia/Shutterstock. outline maps. ©Shutterstock. Floating conservation and enforcement outpost. ©PCS monitoring on Palau’s reefs, using protocols standardized for the region. ©Ian Shives/PICRC

Partners conduct fieldwork, day or night. ©Ian Shives/PICRC Endemic Mastigias etpisonii fill a marine lake in the Rock Islands. ©Ian Shives/PICRC Guam’s Permanent Endowment Goal

$2,000,000

This view from Mt. Lamlam shows Guam’s rugged topography and its vast lands. ©J’nel/Shutterstock U.S. Territory of Guam Leading biosecurity efforts to protect endangered species

Booming with people and activity, the U.S. nesting grounds for endangered Green Turtles Territory of Guam is the economic hub of and Hawksbill Turtles. Guam’s forests host Micronesia, and its influence is felt far and many species, including the endangered Guam wide. The southernmost island in the Mariana Micronesian Kingfisher and the , as , Guam is also the largest island in well as the endangered Marianas Fruit Bat. Micronesia - 45 kilometers from north to south and 6 kilometers wide, with a total area of 549 Guam is the most developed island in Micronesia. square kilometers. At Guam’s northern end, It has a of about 175,000 people, native forests perch on a high limestone plateau, hosts significant military bases for the U.S. Air with steep cliffs leading down to the sea and Force and U.S. Navy, and welcomes more than sandy beaches. The southern end of the island one million tourists per year. Guam’s advanced is hilly and mountainous with several rivers and development has brought significant pressures small lakes dividing the grasslands. The island is on its natural habitats and species. Guam’s surrounded by a coral table reef with deep water coral reefs and the fish that depend on them channels, and the shores include sandy beaches have suffered from pollution, sedimentation, and swamps. overfishing, and even in the past. The growing human population and increasing air This view of illustrates Guam’s reefs are the most diverse marine and sea traffic to the islands pose biosecurity many facets of Guam, including its varied ecosystems in the U.S. territories. They are threats to Guam and nearby islands. A single landscape with steep cliffs, land use and development, and . home to 5,000 documented marine organisms, invasive species, the , ©IZO/Shutterstock including 1,000 species of reef , 1,700 decimated Guam’s biodiversity and caused mollusks, 800 crustaceans, 650 algae species, millions in economic damage. To minimize One Micronesia and 400 coral species. Guam’s beaches provide impacts of invasive species, Guam is 15 Talofofo Falls, a popular tourist destination ©Leksele/Shutterstock A barrier wall will safeguard ground birds like this ©Stubblefield Photography/Shutterstock

leading efforts to develop and implement regional Guam’s conservation efforts include partnerships Guam biosecurity plans. between U.S. Federal agencies like the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Guam has responded with a wide range of Division of Aquatic and Wildlife Resources, local approaches to address those pressures. Guam’s government agencies like the Guam Coastal Department of Aquatic and Wildlife Resources has Management Program, Guam Environmental partnered with the U.S. Navy to use satellite tracking Protection Agency, and the Guam Historic equipment to research and protect sea turtles. Preservation Office, non-profit groups like Guam Guam’s NOAA Fisheries Pacific Island Regional Environmental Partners Incorporated, and Office has trained local communities to assist in reef the of Guam Marine Laboratory. These monitoring programs. Guam’s Fish and Wildlife organizations estimate that achieving Micronesia Service works with local volunteers to monitor sea Challenge goals will require significant increases turtles on beaches. Guam’s Fisheries program has in conservation and enforcement staff, increasing worked with the to combine Guam’s annual conservation budget from $4.8M and promote modern conservation practices and to more than $8.5M per year. These organizations 16 Micronesia Challenge traditional fishing methods. believe they can secure the funding for more than Schooling Snapper ©Stubblefield Photography/Shutterstock A young Guamanian with an interest in conservation learns about sea turtles. ©PCS

$5.2M of their target budget, but they will need to about $700K of their startup costs, Guam needs find additional funding for the remaining $3.2M in assistance to fund the remaining $7.5M. annual operational costs. Guam’s conservation organizations are pursuing Guam’s conservation organizations have many options to raise funds. Guam’s government also identified more than $8.2M in one-time agencies have identified nearly $500K in potential establishment costs. For instance, the Fish and grants from the U.S. Guard, the U.S. Fish Wildlife Service and its U.S. military partners have and Wildlife Service, and the U.S. National proposed building a multi-species barrier “wall” Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration. around the Guam National Wildlife Refuge at Guam’s government is considering establishing Ritidian Point. This fence, which would cost $2.5M, a seashore reserve permit system to support would protect endangered birds that nest in the conservation, and a “green fee” system for tourists

Refuge by keeping out Brown Tree Snakes, as well to support conservation throughout the island. Turtle graphic as feral pigs and deer that hamper the repopulation Finally, Guam is working with the Micronesia ©Webspark/Shutterstock. of native plants by eating and trampling them. Conservation Trust to establish a $2M endowment While some organizations have found funding for to support Guam’s local non-governmental groups. One Micronesia 17 CNMI’s Permanent Endowment Goal

$2,000,000

Diving and other forms of tourism are important to ’s . ©Wizdata/Shutterstock U.S. Commonwealth of the Developing a healthy economy and environment

Rising from the deepest spot on earth, the spot on earth and includes some of the most Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands lush and unique marine environments on earth. (CNMI), is diverse both above and below the Reefs around the northern islands are in near water. CNMI consists of the 14 northern islands pristine condition and vital to fisheries across in the Mariana Archipelago. CNMI stretches the archipelago. Many islands have a layered across 650 kilometers of ocean, and has a total topography, with numerous above- and below- land area of 470 square kilometers and an ground caves. There are hundreds of of nearly 2 million within CNMI’s EEZ, and an underwater ridge square kilometers. The largest island is Saipan, at system to the west of CNMI’s islands is thought 120 square kilometers and the highest elevation to have near-optimal conditions for coral growth. is on , at 965 meters. Tourism contributes significantly to CNMI’s economy, but the islands Humans have inhabited the Mariana Islands face numerous challenges associated with its for around 2,000 years, although the majority impacts, such as development and debris. of change to CNMI’s environment came in the last century with conversion to agriculture. The CNMI’s islands were formed by underwater majority of remaining native forest is found on volcanoes along the Marianas Trench. Older the northern uninhabited islands, although islands have rich soils, deep dissected stream and Aguijan have large stands of native old Conservation efforts have increased of Fruit Bats. systems, and large groundwater reserves. growth limestone forest. The variety of islands ©Super Prin/Shutterstock and habitats in CNMI has allowed for a high The Marianas Trench Marine National Monument level of endemism to develop. Of over 220 (USA), within CNMI’s EEZ, protects the deepest native plant species, almost 40% are endemic. One Micronesia 19 A fisherman uses a net to catch reef fish in Laolao Bay, a sustainably managed conservation area. ©Greg Moretti/PMRI

and private-public partnerships. A 1985 Amendment Northern Mariana Islands to the CNMI set aside several northern islands and their marine habitats as uninhabited places There are also endemic birds and reptiles. Of terrestrial used only for the preservation and protection of species, 4 plants, 2 native mammals, 10 breeding natural resources. Several islands are included in the birds, 2 reptiles, 8 arthropods, and 2 mollusks are Marianas Trench Monument. Areas on Island are globally threatened. Three islands are home to globally part of a U.S. National Historical Monument. The U.S. significant populations of breeding seabirds, including Government maintains a National Park on Saipan, with Uracas, which is home to as many as 190,000 Sooty protected wetlands and natural areas, and is considering Terns. Saipan is home to Lake Susupe and its reed marsh a National Park on Rota. CNMI also has a Marine and swamps, CNMI’s largest wetland. Sanctuary Program with a number of no-take marine reserves around inhabited islands. Several of CNMI’s Conservation in the CNMI includes a mixture of U.S. and local government divisions work in concert to manage CNMI government regulations, community-led activities, parks and reserves or to mitigate negative impacts from outside areas. Control of invasive species, minimizing 20 Micronesia Challenge Private-public partnerships have led success stories, such as an increase in the population of Wedge-tailed Shearwaters on an offshore . ©Joe West/Shutterstock nonpoint source pollution, and regulating marine resource use estimate that CNMI will need to increase its current annual are priorities for local organizations and governmental agencies. conservation budget from $1.9M to $3.4M to achieve their Management of marine reserves, including improving compliance goals. Much of the $1.5M increase would support additional and enforcement, is an additional priority. enforcement, research, education, and management staff, as well as the equipment and training they will need to be effective. Inventive private-public partnerships have had positive benefits These groups have also targeted $8.1M in one-time establishment for biodiversity. For example, and education efforts by costs, including $7.5M to improve the drainage and watershed the CNMI government and a tour operator have led to a dramatic protection for Laolao Bay, one of CNMI’s key conservation areas. increase in the number of breeding pairs in a small population of The agencies and organizations estimate that they have funding Wedge-tailed Shearwaters on Saipan’s offshore islet of Mañagaha. for at least $2.3M of these costs, leaving a $5.8M funding gap for CNMI is also considering implementing a “green fee” system to CNMI’s establishment costs. While CNMI hopes to address many raise conservation funds directly from tourists. of its annual operational costs through green fees and taxes, CNMI seeks outside funding assistance to address its establishment costs CNMI’s conservation efforts are led by a collaboration of and to create a $2M endowment to support CNMI’s community government agencies and community groups. These groups conservation groups. One Micronesia 21 To make one nation of many islands, we respect the diversity of our cultures. Our differences enrich us. The bring us together, they do not separate us. Our islands sustain us, our island nation enlarges us and makes us stronger. - FSM Constitution

Coconut fiber rope in Yap. ©Daniel Lim A family in . ©Ami Vitale/TNC Federated States of Micronesia Building networks to leverage diversity FSM has more than six hundred islands stretching 2,900 The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) uses the power of kilometers from east to west and covering over 2.6 million square networks to build strength from its diversity. FSM consists of four kilometers of ocean. With only 700 square kilometers of land, distinct states: Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae, each with unique FSM’s islands include more than 22,000 square kilometers of languages and customs. FSM spans a huge area of ocean, includes nearshore marine environments. Many of FSM’s islands are distant varied habitats and species, and counts on a wide network atolls surrounded by vast . Fed by three major currents of partners to preserve these resources. FSM’s approach to from the , the , and the , conservation, which uses a wide range of traditional and modern FSM’s reefs host an amazing diversity of habitats and species, practices, reflects its respect of diversity, which is codified and including over 350 species of coral and nearly 1,000 species of celebrated in the FSM Constitution. fish. Similarly, FSM’s islands include a variety of habitats, from high, wet mountain peaks to low, arid atolls. These diverse FSM’s Permanent Endowment Goal habitats host over 1,000 plant species, including at least 200 species found nowhere else in the world, nearly 100 endemic $29,600,000 species of invertebrates, and at least 12 endemic birds. Individual islands have unique collections of species. Chuuk’s Truk Stop Dock. ©Lee Webber Kosrae’s Yela River Estuary. ©KCSO

Preserving these diverse habitats, and the livelihoods and Each FSM state pursues conservation in its own way, and the cultures of the people who depend on them, has required the national government provides coordination and guidance. FSM’s collaboration of an equally diverse collection of partners. For projected operational budget to achieve its conservation goals more than a decade, FSM’s national government has worked is $4.4M per year, based on annual budgets projected by each of with FSM’s state governments, local groups, and international FSM’s four states – Yap ($0.7M), Chuuk ($1.5M), Pohnpei ($1.3M), partners to develop an overall conservation strategy that employs and Kosrae ($0.5M) – plus an additional $0.4M per year for a wide variety of local approaches to achieve nationwide goals. national coordination. FSM estimates that it has funding for nearly In 1999, FSM’s conservation agencies and organizations set a $1.0M of its current expenses, with another $1.0M in potential goal to establish a “network of effective community-managed, annual funding from sources like the , United ecologically representative, and socially beneficial marine and Nations, and the Micronesia Conservation Trust. In addition to forest protected areas in the nation to safeguard the country’s annual fundraising, FSM seeks to build a $30M endowment fund precious natural heritage.” In 2003, FSM and its partners to provide annual disbursements for funding gaps. FSM has developed a comprehensive plan to achieve this vision, specifically started to raise this endowment with contributions of $1.68M identifying 130 areas of biodiversity significance, including 86 from the UN Global Environment Facility, $1M from The Nature coastal and marine sites comprising more than 2,600 square Conservancy, and $250K from the national government, plus kilometers to represent the full range of FSM’s marine, freshwater, an additional pledge of $1M from Conservation International. and terrestrial ecosystems and the endemic and endangered Between contributions and interest, FSM’s endowment stood at species living within them. $3.6M in 2013. Yap’s Permanent Endowment Goal

$3,300,000

Stone money, traditional currency still used today, includes pieces that have become one with nature, illustrating Micronesia’s perfect blend of culture and conservation. ©Ethan Daniels/Shutterstock Yap Collaborating for conservation

Far-flung consists of one main island from Palau and Yap. Far to the southwest of group, fourteen outer atolls, and 145 . Yap’s main island lies the of Ngulu. In Yap’s islands and reefs host a wide diversity of 2008, Ngulu’s community, most of whom live life including manta rays, sea turtles, lobsters, on the main island, created a management trochus, giant clams, sea birds, sea cucumbers, plan that established 75% of Ngulu’s reef as crabs, over 160 species of , and off limits for commercial fishing and that also over 300 species of reef fish. Yap is especially well carefully manages subsistence harvests. Their known for its manta rays, as a convergence of comprehensive plan includes radar to deter illegal ocean currents, an extensive network of natural fishing, invasive rodent eradication to protect cleaning stations, and warm waters make Yap local species, and education and awareness prime habitat for manta rays throughout the year. programs to promote sustainable practices by In 2008, Yap declared all of its waters a manta residents and visitors alike. ray sanctuary, protecting manta rays and their habitat out to 19 kilometers offshore from all of To achieve their conservation goals, Yap’s Yap’s islands, atolls, and islets – all told an area of government and conservation groups estimate 21,350 square kilometers. that they need to increase their annual conservation budgets from approximately $117K Yap’s traditions have given its Yap’s diverse approaches to conservation per year to $652K per year. Yap estimates that people a deep respect for the ocean and their many other natural resources. demonstrate the regional and collaborative they can secure funding for nearly $300K per ©Karen Tu/Waa’gey. nature of the Micronesia Challenge. Across Yap’s year, leaving a funding gap of more than $250K Manta Ray graphic . ©Flankerd/Shutterstock. main island, Yap’s manages per year that must be supported by annual an island-wide forestry program that also draws fundraising and disbursements from the $30M support and expertise from the U.S. Forestry conservation endowment FSM is working to Service. At the northern end of Yap’s main build. Yap has also identified nearly $1M in one- island, the Nimpal Channel is co-managed by time startup costs for its conservation efforts, the two communities that bound the channel, including equipment, training, and an invasive with support from interns in the MC’s Young species eradication program to protect vulnerable One Micronesia 25 Champions Program and guidance from scientists birds and turtles from rats and other pests. depend on are threatened by unsustainable fishing practices and sedimentation from onshore development. More far-flung Chuuk low-lying atolls, each with unique and rare biodiversity, face the uncertainties of climate change and . Securing food and improving livelihoods Chuuk’s marine systems and limited terrestrial area are critical Sprinkled across 640 kilometers of open ocean are Chuuk to Chuuk’s subsistence and formal economies. Preserving State’s seven island and atoll groups. While Chuuk’s 290 Chuuk’s natural habitats and wildlife is thus essential for islands have a combined land area of only 127 square supporting livelihoods. It also requires a collaborative approach. kilometers, they have more than 10,000 square kilometers The Micronesia Challenge provides an overarching framework of nearshore marine environments such as lagoons and for coordination between the Chuuk Conservation Society, reefs. A large majority of Chuuk’s population, the largest in Chuuk’s UFO Women's Organization, Chuuk’s Department of FSM, relies on these marine resources for food and income. Agriculture, Chuuk’s Department of Marine Resources, the Chuuk , home to the main island and capital, is one Chuuk Chapter of the Red Cross, and other groups. Chuuk of the world’s widest (3130 kilometers) and deepest (60 Lagoon is managed by both Chuuk’s Department of Marine meters). is famous for its “ghost fleet” of Resources and its Historic Preservation Office. Likewise, 80 Japanese sunk there during World War II. These Chuuk’s government agencies and conservation organizations wrecks are now artificial reefs for a wide variety of corals, work with the communities that own Chuuk’s coastal sites to fish, and other marine life. Highlands in the lagoon host improve the conservation management of those sites. rare and tropical that are home to the state’s endangered state bird, the Chuuk Monarch. Many of Chuuk’s As a state comprised almost entirely of small atolls with rare bird and reptile species are threatened by overuse of enormous lagoons, achieving the Micronesia Challenge goal these forests. Chuuk’s marine species and the reefs they of effectively conserving at least 30% of nearshore marine resources is an especially daunting task for Chuuk. The state estimates that achieving its conservation goals will require at least $1.5M per year in annual operational costs, plus an additional $1.1M for one-time establishment costs for equipment and vehicles to demarcate, monitor and enforce their conservation areas. Chuuk currently has funding for about $200K per year, and estimates it can secure additional revenues of approximately $350K per year. This leaves a funding gap of nearly $1M per year that must be supported by annual fundraising and disbursements from the $30M conservation endowment FSM is working to build. Many traditions, like weaving with coconut fronds, rely on natural materials. ©Chuuk Conservation Society Chuuk’s Permanent Endowment Goal

$13,600,000

A fisherman in Chuuk lagoon. The size and extent of Chuuk’s lagoons make transportation and enforcement particularly difficult conservation challenges. ©Greg Moretti/PMRI Pohnpei’s Permanent Endowment Goal

$9,000,000

Pohnpei’s Ant Atoll provides safe haven for threatened animals, such as the IUCN Red-Listed (Endangered) Green . ©Ethan Daniels/Shutterstock Pohnpei Modeling an integrated approach

A land of contrasts, consists of declared a United Nations Biosphere Reserve, one main island and many outer islands and thanks to cooperation between Pohnpei State, atoll groups. The main island of Pohnpei is the the United Nations, the Conservation Society of largest and tallest island in FSM. Its height makes Pohnpei, and the Pohnepeian family that owns Pohnpei’s mountainous rainforests one of the the atoll. Ant Atoll Biosphere Reserve includes wettest places on earth, receiving more than 760 three zones with different levels of protection: centimeters of every year. Pohnpei’s core zones with strict protection for critical feed more than 40 rivers, as well as spectacular nesting and spawning habitats, buffer zones waterfalls, that nourish the island’s fringing that allow recreational activities, and transition and reefs with nutrient-rich waters. zones with carefully managed fishing. By promoting ecologically sustainable enterprises Pohnpei has a rich history of integrating like and sponge farming, Pohnpei’s terrestrial and marine conservaiton. Pohnpei’s government and its partners provide the local Ant Atoll exemplifies the importance that a community with clear links for preserving their single can serve for marine natural resources while advancing livelihoods. and terrestrial ecosystems alike. Located 18 kilometers southwest of Pohnpei’s main island, Pohnpei estimates that achieving its conserva- Ant Atoll is a set of thirteen low-lying, forested tion goals will require an annual budget of nearly islets encircling a 75 square kilometer lagoon. $1.3M, plus nearly $700K in one-time establish- Ant’s lagoon hosts the healthiest population of ment costs for conservation management plans, giant clams in Pohnpei. Ant’s forests are some of vehicles and equipment, and programs to control the best seabird nesting sites in all of Micronesia, invasive species. Pohnpei has existing funding of Children have fun while playing in the . sheltering Red-tailed Tropicbirds, Sooty Terns, about $570K and has identified another $260K in ©Ami Vitale/TNC Red-footed Boobies and several thousand Black likely potential funds. This leaves a funding gap Noddies. Ant’s main channel into the lagoon is a of nearly $500K per year that must be supported spawning and aggregation site for three species by annual fundraising and disbursements from of grouper. Beaches are nesting grounds for the $30M conservation endowment FSM is work- endangered sea turtles. In 2007, Ant Atoll was ing to build. One Micronesia 29 Kosrae Managing water for people and places

Lush and verdant, Kosrae state consists of a single main for the forest’s management comes from an innovative island, Kosrae, and a dozen smaller islands and islets closely “conservation easement” that provides funds to the forest’s surrounding the main island. Most land is covered by steep, owners in return for their work to protect and manage the thickly forested mountains, some rising over 600 meters. The forest and the wildlife it supports. high elevations and generous rainfall produce numerous rivers and waterfalls and host dense and numerous species The Utwe Biosphere Reserve on Kosrae’s southwestern shore of birds. Kosrae’s include mangrove swamps, sandy encompasses a variety of habitats, including lagoon, reef, beaches, and coral reefs. mangrove, swamp, river, and stream habitats, and is home to a wide diversity of animals and plants. It is divided into three Yela swamp is home to the largest remaining stand of zones: a core zone with strict rules that prohibit harvesting, a Terminalia carolinensis trees (locally known as Ka) in the world. buffer zone in which only limited human activities are allowed, The forest is a protected area managed through a partnership and a transition zone which allows permitted, sustainable between the local landowners and a coalition of government economic activities. A new protected area, Olum Watershed, agencies and local conservation groups. Some of the funding illustrates the collaborative nature of conservation in Kosrae, with owners, nonprofits, and governments working together to protect entire watersheds and systems.

In order to achieve effective conservation of its resources, Kosrae estimates it will need to more than double its current conservation budgets to nearly $500K per year. Kosrae’s government and conservation groups have identified current and potential funding for approximately half of that, but they will need additional fundraising and endowment funds to provide the additional $250K per year to meet their goals. They also estimated that they would need more than $720K for one- time establishment costs for land purchases, equipment, and training, of which they have already secured more than $550K. Rushing waterfalls in the Tafunsak Gorge, in the Mutunte watershed, drain to rivers and reefs. ©KCSO Kosrae’s Permanent Endowment Goal

$3,700,000

Kosrae’s Utwe Biosphere Reserve protects a connected , including portions of watershed and reef. ©Greg Moretti/PMRI RMI’s Permanent Endowment Goal

$13,000,000

Sailing traditions are still alive in the Marshall Islands, a nation of low-lying islands surrounded by vast lagoons. ©Greg Moretti/PMRI Republic of the Marshall Islands Ensuring health amid rising seas

Barely rising above the seas, the Republic of the islands are known to have several endemic plants Marshall Islands (RMI) consists of 29 classic coral and lizards. The Imperial Pigeon, one of the atolls and five low-lying solitary islands. Low most endangered birds in the world, with a known elevation is a defining feature of RMI. Its highest population of around 85 birds, is found in the elevation is 10 meters, and mean elevation is less Ratak chain and has been the subject of intensive than two meters. and tropical storms rehabilitation efforts. Four atolls are home to tens regularly hit the islands and sea level rise has of thousands of nesting seabirds. The Marshall already changed the landscape. RMI has 1,225 Islands have some of the most diverse and pristine islands and islets; 22 atolls and four of the solitary coral reefs found on the globe. At least 1000 islands are inhabited. The atolls are scattered in two species of fish, 360 species of coral, 2500 other parallel island chains: the western (sunset) and invertebrates, 27 marine mammals, and 5 species of eastern Ratak (sunrise) chains. The atolls extend sea turtles live in the Marshall’s crystal clear waters. 1,130 kilometers from north to south, and 1,290 kilometers from east to west. Total land area in Traditional conservation methods in the Marshall

RMI is 182 square kilometers, with a lagoon area Islands included the use of mo, or site restrictions Thousands of Black Noddies nest on of over 6,500 square kilometers and an Exclusive put in place by chiefs. Seasonal and species Important Bird Areas in RMI. ©Nitrogenic.com/Shutterstock. Economic Zone of over 2 million square kilometers. harvesting restrictions has also been part of Shark graphic. traditional conservation systems. Environmental, ©Sim Kay Seng/Shutterstock. A rare, completely natural semi-arid atoll forest political, and economic forces in the last ecosystem is found on some of the uninhabited century have led to numerous migrations of the northern atolls. Most other terrestrial systems Marshallese away from their traditional homes, are representative of classic atolls, dominated by and traditional knowledge of mo has been lost agroforest, beach forest, and savanna. Studies in some places. However, RMI’s government and documenting terrestrial species continue, but so far communities recognize the importance of reviving have identified at least 700 animals, mostly insects, conservation traditions and many communities are One Micronesia and at least 80 indigenous vascular plants. The returning to traditional practices. 33 Republic of Marshall Islands

RMI has invested in the establishment of a system costs to fully implement their plans for a nationwide of protected areas for marine and terrestrial areas conservation network. $2.4M would go to developing and resource use restrictions for marine species. The community-based resource management plans and nationwide 2009 Reimaanlok National Conservation equipping these communities with monitoring and Area Plan lays out national goals and methods for enforcement facilities. The remaining $0.9M would fund ensuring that RMI’s conservation area system is network-wide activities, including invasive species erad- comprehensive and biologically sustainable. The plan ication programs, development of a fundraising toolkit, emphasizes community-based participatory planning and the founding of a conservation theater group. and management. RMI’s , the site of nuclear tests in the 1940s and 1950s, is now a UNESCO World Once fully established, RMI projects an operational Heritage site and has provided fascinating insight into budget of $1.9M per year to achieve MC goals. Of ecosystem recovery after radiation and isolation. RMI this total, $1M is for community-based conservation has two internationally important wetlands recognized costs across 25 atolls that comprise RMI’s nationwide under the UN’s Ramsar Convention; both are unique Protected Areas Network, while $0.9M would pay for because they are marine sites. coordinated network activities. The RMI estimates that it has funding for $0.6M of its current expenses. It is Their history of movement and transition has led reviewing a number of potential sources for additional the Marshallese to devise innovative methods for funding, including allocating a portion of revenues conservation, including the proposed establishment from fishing access rights to conservation activities. of a theatre group dedicated to raising awareness of Even with these potential funding sources, RMI expects conservation issues and the links between environment an annual funding gap of more than $650K. and socioeconomic well-being. In addition, the Marshall Islands have been relatively unstudied, and In addition to annual fundraising, RMI is building a thus ecological surveys and monitoring are a key $13M endowment to meet this gap. With a pledge of component of conservation costs. Because of the $1M from Conservation International, a $200K grant distances between RMI’s many atolls, travel costs are an from RMI’s local conservation group MIMRA, a $1.68M important consideration in the islands. grant from the UN Global Environment Facility, and a $65K contribution from the RMI government from Micronesia Challenge RMI’s conservation agencies and organizations esti- fishing license revenues, RMI’s endowment has grown 34 mate they will require $3.3M in one-time establishment to nearly $3.5M. house and in . ©Greg Moretti/PMRI Emerald Skink ©Leslie Ray Ware/Shutterstock

Black tip Reef Shark ©Ethan Daniels/Shutterstock Coral reef. ©Greg Moretti/PMRI Conservation Progress (December 2013)

Terrestrial Conservation Terrestial Areas

MC Goals and Current Standing 500 Clownfish. ©Stubblefield Photography/Shutterstock Total Current Target % of Total RMI Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial 400 FSM km2 Protected Protected Protected1 CNMI km2 km2 300 Guam Palau 409 82 82 20% Palau Guam 551 131 110 24% 200 CNMI2 321 46 64 14% FSM 639 92 128 14% 100 RMI 291 46 58 16% 0 TOTAL 2,211 397 442 18% Current Target Red-footed Booby. ©FeatherCollector/Shutterstock Terrestrial Terrestrial 1 Each jurisdiction aims to protect at least 20% of its total terrestrial area. Protected (km2) Protected (km2) 2 Calculated baseline and target values for terrestrial protected areas include only the islands of Saipan, Tinian, Rota, , Ascuncion, Maug, and Uracas. Near-shore Marine Conservation Near-shore Marine Areas3 14,000 MC Goals and Current Standing 12,000 Total Current Target % of Total Marine Marine Marine Marine 10,000 km2 Protected Protected Protected45 Soft Coral. ©Ethan Daniels/Shutterstock RMI km2 km2 8,000 FSM Palau 2,918 1,685 875 58% CNMI

Guam 234 32 70 14% 6,000 Guam CNMI 567 74 170 13% Palau FSM 22,203 1,516 6,661 7% 4,000 RMI 17,941 3,187 5,382 18% TOTAL 43,863 6,458 13,159 15% 2,000 3Near-shore has been defined as between mean sea level and 100m depth. 4 0 Each jurisdiction aims to protect at least 30% of its total near-shore marine area. Current Target 5 Progress for all areas will also be measured by biological and socioeconomic Marine Marine Protected (km2) Protected (km2) Inarahan Natural Pool, Guam ©IZO/Shutterstock indicators of effective conservation Fundraising Progress (December 2013)

Permanent Endowment Funding

Permanent Endowment Funding 60.0

MC Goals and Current Standing Fishing by . ©TNC 50.0

Current Funds Target Funds % of Target MCRO ($M) ($M) 40.0 RMI Palau 7.4 6.2 119% FSM Guam - 2.0 0% 30.0 CNMI Guam CNMI - 2.0 0% Palau 20.0 FSM 3.6 29.6 12% RMI 3.5 13.0 27% 10.0 MCRO1 - 2.5 0%

TOTAL 14.5 55.3 26% 0 Current Target Women in Chuuk. ©Greg Moretti/PMRI 1 MCRO is the Micronesia Challenge Regional Office, which will coordinate MC Funds ($M) Funds ($M) activities across the entire region.

Annual Operations Funding Gap

Annual Operations Funding Gap 25.0 MC Goals and Current Standing

Current Funds Target Funds % of Target 20.0 MCRO ($M) ($M) RMI Chuukese boy. ©Greg Moretti/PMRI Palau 2.2 3.2 69% 15.0 FSM Guam 5.3 8.5 62% CNMI Guam CNMI 2.0 3.4 57% 10.0 Palau FSM 1.0 3.8 25% 5.0 RMI 0.6 1.9 30%

MCRO 0.05 0.2 25% 0 Current Target TOTAL 11.0 21.0 53% Funds ($M) Funds ($M)

Bamboo raft. ©Sunipix55/Shutterstock Moving Forward Funding our future

Since founding the Micronesia Challenge in 2006, we have made We currently spend about $11M annually to protect more than considerable progress towards our conservation and financial 6,800 square kilometers worth of conservation reserves. We need goals. We have more than 150 conservation areas under your help to increase the number and size of our conservation management, covering more than 6,800 square kilometers. This areas, and to increase the effectiveness of our management of is more than half way to our conservation goal. To achieve our those conservation areas. By 2020, we hope to increase these full goals, we must establish new conservation areas and facilities; reserves to a total area of more than 13,500 square kilometers, strengthen conservation and management practices at existing and increase the effectiveness of conservation management conservation areas and facilities; establish research, monitoring across all protected areas, existing and new, in Micronesia. and management plans; build facilities and ; and purchase vehicles and equipment for enforcement and Once we have established the conservation areas we need to meet maintenance. To ensure “effective conservation” across all sites, our goals, we project our annual operational costs to maintain existing and new, we will need to increase annual budgets for these areas to be $21M per year. Existing conservation funding salaries, training, and equipment for conservation officers and across all our islands currently stands at about $11M per year. scientists; fuel and maintenance for patrol vehicles; and outreach We have identified an additional $7M per year in potential funds. and education activities for local communities and visiting tourists. This leaves a gap of nearly $3M per year we plan to meet through disbursements from the conservation endowment we are building. We have worked hard to chart a course to financial stability In 2010 we set an initial target of $55M for this endowment. We for our ambitious conservation efforts. We need your help to have already raised more than $14M towards that goal. We now strengthen the solid financial foundation we’ve established. seek to raise an additional $41M for the endowment. In 2010 we developed a comprehensive Sustainable Finance Plan with detailed estimates of the costs, available funds, and We are confident that with your help, we can meet all of potential funding mechanisms to support our conservation goals. our conservation and financial goals: establish 6,700 square Summaries of that plan are included in this document; the full kilometers of new conservation areas and improve the rationale and plan may be found through Micronesia Challenge management of our existing conservation areas, secure $21M for partners. annual operational costs to manage these areas, and build a $55M endowment to ensure the long-term viability of this region-wide Micronesia Challenge system of conservation. We invite you to join us on our journey. 38 We are grateful for your support. Partners and Supporters

Our goal to effectively conserve at least 20% organizations, support them in their work, and join us of our lands and 30% of our nearshore marine in pursuing our goal. The list of our supporters, like environment depends on a wide variety of partners the list of wonders on our islands, defies the limits of and supporters. These agencies and organizations these pages. And like our conservation efforts, this are essential to the overall success of the Challenge. list also continues to grow. We invite you to join our We encourage you to learn more about these community and support our cause. Be one with us.

• Micronesia Conservation Trust • German International Climate • Conservation Strategy Fund • The Nature Conservancy Initiative • Micronesian Image Institute Si Yu’us Ma’ase • Conservation International • The Government of • OneReef • Global Island Partnership • International Cooperation • Marianas Islands Nature Alliance Olomwaay • Global Environment Facility (GEF) Agency • Pacific Marine Resources Institute • GEF Small Grants Programme • Agency for International • Micronesians in Kommol tata • UN Environment Programme Development • Botanical Garden • UN Development Programme • Programme • Palau International Coral Reef Center Kom Kmal Mesulang • US Department of Interior, Office of • South Pacific Regional Environment • Palau Conservation Society Kinisou chapur Insular Affairs Programme • Palau Community College • US Department of State • Secretariat of the • Helen Reef Resource Management Kalahngan • US National Oceanographic and • The David & Lucile Packard Program Atmospheric Administration Foundation • Yap Community Action Program Kamagar • US Fish and Wildlife Services • National Fish and Wildlife Foundation • Chuuk Conservation Society • US Environmental Protection Agency • The Margaret A. Cargill Foundation • Conservation Society of Pohnpei Kulo Mulalap • US Forest Service • The Pew Charitable Trusts • Kosrae Conservation and Safety Thank You • EU Conservation and Environmental • Global Green Grants Organization Protection Programme • Seacology • Yela Environment Landowners • EU Global Climate Change Alliance • Pacific Islands Managed and Authority • German Federal Ministry for the Protected Areas Community • Kaday Community and Cultural Environment, Nature Conservation • Island Conservation Development Organization and Nuclear Safety • RARE • College of Marshall Islands Sunset over a diving boat. • SeaWeb ©Stanislay Fosenbauer/Shutterstock.

MICRONESIA CHALLENGE P.O. Box 1961 , PW 96940 Republic of Palau +680.488.8008 [email protected] www.micronesiachallenge.org

MICRONESIA CONSERVATION TRUST P.O. Box 2177 Pohnpei, FM 96941 Federated States of Micronesia +691.320.5670 [email protected] www.ourmicronesia.org Sunset ©Leslie Ray Ware/Shutterstock one A Campaign to Conserve our Shared Resources MICR NESIA