To improve food security and support the growing number of local food producers, Northern Marianas College’s Cooperative Research, Extension, and Education Services-Agriculture Production Program is collecting soil samples from the Division of Agriculture’s cultivated and uncultivated farm plots in Kagman.
A hand soil auger is a manual tool to collect soil samples. Augers will be used to collect soil samples in Kagman.
The soil samples will be randomly collected using a soil auger, a tool specifically designed for soil sampling. Subsamples will be taken from depths of 0 to 6 inches to capture spatial variation and will then be combined into a single composite sample per plot.
Starting on Feb. 24, 2025, samples will be collected over approximately three weeks and sent to a laboratory in the U.S. for testing of carbon, nutrients, and pH levels. Results will be available approximately three weeks after the laboratory receives the samples.
Adrian Ares, who has a master’s degree in soil science and a PhD in agronomy and soil science, said: “The sampling represents a major effort in terms of planning, field work, and analytical costs, and is worthy because it will enhance the knowledge of Saipan soils and provide farmers with diagnoses and recommendations to increase crop yield, quality, and marketability. This echoes the United Nations ‘Healthy Soils for a Healthy Life’ motto.”
According to Patty Coleman, NMC-CREES interim dean, NMC-CREES is working with the Kagman farmers through [Kagman Agricultural Farms and Producers Association, Inc.] and the Division of Agriculture so that all farm plots in Kagman can use regenerative farming methods to produce high quality food for our local economy and community.”
Following the recent announcement regarding proposed amendments to farm plot use regulations, farmers are now required to create a viable farm plan in order to use a plot in Kagman. NMC-CREES will assist in the process by conducting soil tests, formulating recommendations for soil improvement, and providing trainings for current and aspiring farmers in the CNMI. The continued collaboration between CNMI farmers, DoA and NMC-CREES opens an avenue for healthy and sustainable agriculture leading to improved food sovereignty.
For more information, visit the Department of Lands and Natural Resources website at dlnr.cnmi.gov or contact Dr. Adrian Ares at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (670) 237-6851.