About the Division
The Division is tasked with conserving, protecting and enhancing the fish, game and wildlife resources of our islands for the benefit of the citizens of the CNMI. In this section, we cover a wealth of information on our work to accomplish this through scientific research, monitoring, regulation, enforcement, planning and management activities that seek to ensure the long-term survival and sustainability of our marine and terrestrial wildlife resources.
The Fish and Wildlife team is made up of technical and professional staffers working together on a variety of projects designed to enhance habitat, promote sustainable resource use, protect scarce species populations, and increase public awareness and enjoyment of the Commonwealth's unique natural resources and heritage.
We accomplish this through species-specific research, population and habitat monitoring, adaptive management, educational programs at schools, outreach at public events, environmental planning, permitting for major developments, and enforcement activities.
The Division's varied and wide-ranging activities are carried out by sections:
- Fisheries
- Wildlife
- Marine Conservation
- Outreach and Education
- Enforcement
- Coordination
- Administration and Management Planning
DFW also reviews all development proposals submitted to the Bureau of Environmental and Coastal Quality (BECQ) to ensure that negative impacts to endangered and threatened species are minimized, mitigated and/or avoided. Upon request, technical staff can assist developers and the public in designing projects that optimize land use for both human and natural resource purposes. These pre-permit meetings can lead to improved developed environments and more sustainable use of the island's marine and terrestrial natural resources.
Our Mission
Through research, monitoring, regulation, enforcement, planning, and management, the Division of Fish and Wildlife seeks to ensure the long-term survival and sustainability of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Island's natural resources for present and future generations.
Our Mandate
The Division of Fish and Wildlife is an agency under the CNMI Department of Lands and Natural Resources. Our mandate under Public Laws 2-51, 10-57 and subsequent conservation laws is to provide and enforce regulations governing hunting, fishing, harvesting, and taking of species, as well as human behavior and activities in protected and conservation areas in the CNMI.
Programs and Activities
Here is a list of the programs and activities that the Division of Fish and Wildlife - Department of Lands and Natural Resources to tackle the major challenges and help to grow the Northern Marianas Islands' future.