CNMI Coastal Program Leaders Join State and Territory Programs Attending the Coastal States Organization Spring Meeting in Washington D.C.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representatives from the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) joined coastal program managers from 36 states and territories last week for the NOAA Annual Program Manager’s Meeting and the Coastal States Organization (CSO) Spring Meeting 2026. Held at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) headquarters, the summit focused on the future of coastal resilience, funding uncertainties, and innovative resource management.

The CNMI was represented by Mr. Floyd R. Masga, Administrator for the Bureau of Environmental and Coastal Quality (BECQ), and Ms. Juanet Sablan of the Division of Coastal Resources Management (DCRM).

The meeting featured a campfire session with Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere and NOAA Administrator, Dr. Neil Jacobs, Jr. addressing concerns regarding future budget cycles and changing program priorities.

Further emphasizing a shift in strategy, NOAA Deputy Administrator Tim Perry challenged attendees to seek ways to do things differently, noting that while federal and state water programs serve various functions, they are all essential pieces of the same puzzle that must be better integrated in order to be sustainable.

A core component of the week included a day on Capitol Hill, where participants met with congressional representatives to voice local concerns. The CNMI delegation met with Representative Kimberly King-Hinds to discuss high-priority issues impacting the islands, specifically Deep-Sea Bed Mining and increased military presence in the Marianas.

Throughout the four-day event, coastal managers participated in breakout sessions to tackle shared hurdles such as staffing shortages and shifting legislative priorities. A specialized panel featuring Dr. Megan Carr from the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) provided insights into the growing sector of offshore energy development and its implications for state and territorial waters.

"These meetings are vital for ensuring the CNMI has a seat at the table when federal priorities are set," said BECQ Administrator Masga. "By sharing insights with our counterparts from other states and territories, we can better protect our unique marine resources while navigating global funding challenges."

BECQ serves to protect the public health and maintain the environmental quality of the CNMI through the sustainable management of its coastal resources and the regulation of environmental impacts. promotes sustainable development and conservation of coastal resources. DCRM is a subdivision of BECQ that manages permits, enforces environmental regulations, monitors shoreline changes, and protects coral reefs and wetlands across Saipan, Tinian, and Rota.