"A 2-day workshop was held in Garapan, Saipan, to gain insight from the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) and Guam researchers and managers on marine research needs within the Marianas Archipelago for consideration as NOAA Fisheries develops its science and management plans. More than 30 individuals representing a broad spectrum of organizations attended. Following a series of presentations, participants identified key research topics that could be implemented in the next 3 to 5 years. NOAA Fisheries will incorporate this information into a Mariana Archipelago marine research action plan. This report summarizes the outcomes of the 2-day workshop. Common themes include the need to conduct broad-scale studies of life history and connectivity to understand regional biodiversity; develop ways to conduct long-term monitoring; develop collaborative Geographical Information System (GIS) mapping products that include habitat types, human uses, species distributions, and other data; and to improve systems for storing and sharing information. Many topics highlighted the need to collect a broader array of data at an enhanced frequency in the Islands Unit Overall; an emphasis was placed on collaborative research activities and building capacity within the Marianas Archipelago, particularly through engagement with fishermen. Underlying notes were to examine and incorporate underutilized and volunteer data sources and to ensure that collected data are analyzed and shared"--Introduction. [doi:10.7289/V5GX48H9 (http://dx.doi.org/10.7289/V5GX48H9)]

This book, while focusing on current preservation challenges posed by the Aga, or Mariana crow, also reflects the larger issues and challenges of biodiversity conservation in all oceanic island ecosystems. It evaluates causes for the continuing decline of the Aga, which exists on only the two southernmost islands in the Mariana archipelago, Guam and Rota, and reviews actions to halt or reverse the decrease. This book reminds us of the importance and challenge of preserving the unique environmental heritage of islands of the Mariana archipelago, the need for increased knowledge to restore and maintain native species and habitats, and the compelling and lasting value of extensive public education to stimulate environmentally informed public policy development.