This month, we are pleased to feature Martin Pangelinan Jr., State Forester with the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) Department of Lands and Natural Resources / Department of Agriculture - CNMI Forestry. We invite you to meet Martin!    

What was your first position in the field of forestry?
My first position in the field of forestry was a Wildland Firefighter with the Angeles National Forest in Southern California.

How long have you been in your role?
I have been in my current position for three weeks now.

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the Pacific Islands Forestry Committee?
I am enjoying working with other professionals who share the same interest and passion and learning about the programs that are sustaining our forest health here in the CNMI.

What do you see to be the emerging issues in CNMI?
The emerging issues in the CNMI are the insects/parasites that could possibly harm our trees. Rota, which is one of the islands in the CNMI, has already fallen victim to the rhino beetle and it is posing a major threat to our coconut trees. We need to gain control of this species so that it does not invade the other islands in the CNMI. 

What is your favorite hobby?
My favorite hobby is playing baseball and softball, and coaching my daughter in the sports that she plays.

What is your favorite tree?
My favorite tree is the coconut tree.

What is your favorite outdoor activity?
My favorite outdoor activities are water sports, such as paddle boarding, kayaking, etc.

What would you do (for a career) if you weren’t doing this?
If I wasn’t in forestry, I would probably be a firefighter with the CNMI Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services.