CNMI Coral Reef Initiative

11/04/2026

30/03/2026

📅2026 CRI Tide Chart Calendar
April Tides

Artwork by: Kianna McFaddin
Grade: 12
School: Kagman High School

Artwork Description:
"This artwork shows how deep-sea disturbances like mining stir up sediment and pollution that flow to near shore waters harming coral reefs, fish and coastal communities. It reminds us that the ocean is one connected system and protecting deep sea ecosystems is essential to preserve the resources and life near the shore."

12/03/2026

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Protecting our coastal resources, from ridge to reef, for the next generation of island stewards. 🌊🌺 | Celebrating the women of DCRM this Women’s History Month | HAPPY WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH, CNMI 🌏

12/03/2026

📅 2026 CRI Tide Chart Calendar
March Tides

Artwork By: Hyunyu Choi
Grade: 10
School: Saipan International School

Artwork Description:
" My artwork was inspired by the current environmental threats impacting coral reefs in the CNMI which includes storm impacts, microplastics, ocean acidification and the potential danger of deep sea mining. These issues prevent corals from thriving and cause pollution and biodiversity loss. I represented each threat with small symbols in the corners. At the center I drew two Mandrin fish that only seen in healthy reefs, expressing my hope for better preservation of our reefs. Through my piece I wish people could recognize these issues and raise awareness that will lead to real actions and meaningful change."

12/03/2026

📅 2026 CRI Tide Chart Calendar
February Tides

Artwork By: Tate Manglona
Grade: 7
School: Chacha Oceanview Middle School

Artwork Description:
"I chose tuna because it's simple, it may not be cool, but it is always there when I need a good meal. Tuna is easy to make and it save a lot of time... Tuna live in warm open ocean. They survive by swimming fast and going in groups. They eat smaller fish and sea animals and their bodies are shaped to help them move faster. People over fish tuna which could harm their numbers and are important for the environment because they help keep the ocean balance. Tuna also helps people by giving food and jobs. Overfishing changes the environment so it's important to protect and keep the ocean healthy."

12/03/2026

📅 2026 CRI Tide Chart Calendar
January Tides

Artwork By: Calishay Mendiola
Grade: 4
School: Tinian Elementary School

Artwork Description
"Littering in our shores and open water affects the marine life and coral reef ecosystems. Throwing our trash in the ocean can cause death to our sea animals such as getting trapped in plastic materials or nets. Ocean pollution can destroy marine habitats, food web and the entire sea environment. To help save our sea life creatures and coral reefs, we should start by collecting our trash on the beach or on boats and get rid of them properly."

12/03/2026

📅 2026 CRI Tide Chart Calendar
NOW AVAILABLE ‼️

The 2026 calendar highlights artwork inspired by this year’s theme: Deep Sea Impacts: Connecting Deep Sea to Near Shore Resources. Students were challenged to creatively show how what happens in the deep ocean can affect the reefs and resources we depend on near shore.

A big thank you to all the schools and students who participated in the 2025 CRI Art Challenge. Your creativity and thoughtful artwork help raise awareness about the importance of protecting our ocean and coral reefs.

Artwork Recognition:

Cover: Jaena Lei Villaviza, 8th Grade- Hopwood Middle School

January: Calishay Mendiola, 4th Grade- Tinian Elementary School

February: Tate Manglona, 7th Grade- ChaCha Ocean View Middle School

March: Hyunyu Choi, 10th Grade- Saipan International School

April: Kianna McFaddin, 12th Grade- Kagman High School

May: Mehbuba Aha Alam, 6th Grade- Francisco Mendiola Sablan Middle School

June: Wan Ting Qin, 8th Grade- Hopwood Middle School

July: Bernice Cayabyab, 7th Grade- Dr. Rita Hocog Inos Junior High School

August: Ella Rose D. Maritita, 8th Grade- Dr. Rita Hocog Inos Junior High School

September: Mika Justine Camacho, 12th Grade- Kagman High School

October: Zien Huang, 8th Grade- Hopwood Middle School

November: Anna Sophia V. Becina, 8th Grade- Hopwood Middle School

December: Elizabeth Shi, 6th Grade- Agape Christian School

09/03/2026

The coral reefs surrounding the CNMI provide habitat for many of the fish our community depends on. Practicing responsible fishing helps protect these reefs and ensures our waters remain productive for future generations.

Division of Fish and Wildlife shares simple best fishing practices every angler can use on the water. Responsible fishing helps protect our coral reefs, support healthy fish populations, and keep our island fishing traditions alive for future generations. 🐟💙

03/03/2026

🌊 Do you ever wonder how we know if our reefs are healthy?

Go behind the scenes with the CNMI Marine Monitoring Team as they dive beneath the surface to track the health of our coral reefs and seagrass beds. From gearing up on the boat to collecting underwater data, every survey helps us understand how our reefs are changing and when action is needed.

See how marine monitoring today helps safeguard our reefs for generations to come.

03/03/2026

"I taotao Marianas yan I mamati kumo uno gi sensia, historia, yan todo i maneran i linala-ta. I ma prutehin i mamati ha asugura na i famaguon-ta ma irensia ma’uk na hinemlo i tasi yan i islas siha"

Jordan Suel is a Coral Restoration Technician with CRI and from the village of Tanapag has a deep connection to the ocean and the culture of the Marianas. Through hands-on work in coral nurseries and reef restoration, Jordan helps grow and outplant corals to strengthen and rebuild damaged reefs.

Rooted in Chamorro values and tradition, he sees coral reefs as more than ecosystems they are an essential part of island life, providing food, protection, and cultural identity for our communities. His work reflects a deep respect for the ocean and a commitment to protecting it for future generations.