Guam's natural environment has dramatically changed, according to Adrienne Loerzel, coral management liaison and coastal specialist with the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration.

Factors such as urban development and the invasive rhinoceros beetle have negatively affected the island's natural landscape, destroying resources such as coconut trees and coral reefs.

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Her guest lecture at the T. Stell Newman Visitor Center's weekly Science Sunday emphasized that all residents have a part in restoring Guam's environment.

"Use native plants in your landscaping," she said. "And dispose of trash properly."

Residents encouraged to get involved

She also encourages residents to get involved, whether that's attending events like Science Sunday to learn more or participate in other programs geared toward restoring the environment.

Get your kids involved too, she said.

"Let your kids play outside," she said. "There are families who never go south of Agana. Everyone should explore and see what Guam has to offer."

Important to remain hopeful

Part of her organization's efforts include removing invasive bamboos and weeds, and planting trees and native seeds instead. These efforts slowly but surely help rekindle the natural environment, she said, and the volunteers are a major part of this effort.

It's most important to remain hopeful, according to Loerzel.

"Nature is very resilient," she said. "Our plants and our animals will come back, you just need to give it a chance."

Despite the ongoing partial federal shutdown, a donation from Pacific Historic Parks will allow the T. Stell Newman Visitor Center and bookstore to continue daily operations, on a schedule of 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

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