AGP Executive Report

Typhoon Bavi Emergency Response: Guam has declared a state of emergency as Bavi rapidly intensifies and could reach super-typhoon strength near the Marianas, with forecasts still shifting but a serious threat for Guam, Rota, Tinian, and Saipan. Local Storm Readiness: The U.S. Coast Guard set Port Heavy Weather Condition X-RAY for Guam and CNMI ports, while the Coast Guard and emergency partners urged residents and mariners to act now. Waste & Public Services: Guam Solid Waste Authority suspended trash services and closed transfer stations and landfill areas ahead of Bavi, advising residents to secure bins and recyclables. Funding for Response: Lawmakers approved about $8M in leftover Sinlaku disaster funds to support Bavi preparation and recovery, including village response, school shelters, and coordination. Health & Sheltering: Guam Memorial Hospital began storm preparations and will accept eligible expectant mothers when readiness conditions are met. Community Impacts: The Mañenggon Memorial and Freedom Rocks festival, plus related fireworks, were postponed or canceled due to the storm. Cleaner Transport: Separate from the storm, GovGuam rolled out eight plug-in hybrid electric vehicles for public agencies, funded through the Guam Energy Office.

Tropical Storm Bavi Emergency Prep: Guam lawmakers moved to convene an emergency session at 6 p.m. Thursday to reprogram unspent typhoon disaster funds from Sinlaku for the Bavi response, as forecasters warned the storm could rapidly intensify and potentially reach super typhoon strength near the Marianas. Storm Sheltering & Airport Guidance: CNMI urged residents in STRONG tents, damaged homes, and low-lying areas to relocate early to shelters on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, while Guam’s airport advised travelers to sign up for mobile alerts and check airline flight status because services may be limited even though the airport stays open. Hospital Readiness: Guam Memorial Hospital began storm preparations and said it will accept expectant mothers under Condition of Readiness 2, with the Emergency Room staying open 24/7. Regional Climate & Resilience: The inaugural Pacific Climate Summit wrapped with a joint commitment to regional resilience, with Guam among the participants. Invasive Species Spotlight: Volunteers at Andersen Air Force Base joined a brown tree snake workshop and night hunt, continuing efforts to protect Guam’s biodiversity. Coastal Fisheries Planning: Guam’s draft Coastal Fisheries Management Plan comment period was extended through July 21.

Tropical Storm Bavi / 09W Rapid Intensification: Guam and the Marianas are bracing for a major weather hit as Tropical Storm 09W (expected to be named Bavi) strengthens fast and could reach super typhoon strength by Sunday or Monday, with forecasts shifting but still pointing to possible direct impacts for Guam, Rota, Tinian, and Saipan; NWS and regional emergency officials are urging residents to prepare now—7 to 10 days of food and water, secure loose items, clear drainage, and follow updates. Invasive Species Control: Volunteers at Andersen Air Force Base joined a workshop and nighttime snake hunt that captured about 20 brown tree snakes, helping curb a major threat to Guam’s birds and island ecosystems. Coastal Fisheries: Guam’s draft Coastal Fisheries Management Plan comment period was extended through July 21, giving fishers and the public more time to weigh in on measures aimed at reef fish recovery. Climate-Friendly Mobility: The Guam Energy Office handed over eight plug-in hybrid electric vehicles to local agencies to support community services and cut fuel use and emissions. Community & Culture: Guam Museum announced “Mark Dell’Isola: A Retrospective 1986-2026,” opening July 10 and running through Oct. 16.

Storm Watch: Invest 95W has upgraded to Tropical Depression 09W and could bring a tropical cyclone through the Marianas Sunday into Monday, with forecasts ranging from depression to Category 3 typhoon—Guam, Rota, Tinian and Saipan are urged to prepare now for heavy rain and gusty winds as the track still isn’t locked in. Coastal & Fisheries: Guam’s draft Coastal Fisheries Management Plan public comment period is extended through July 21, 2026 after DAWR town halls sought input on measures to address long-term reef fish declines. Energy & Air Quality: The Guam Energy Office handed over eight plug-in hybrid electric vehicles to multiple agencies, aiming to cut fuel costs and emissions as Guam faces stronger typhoons. Invasive Species Biosecurity: A bill to simplify collection of Guam’s invasive species inspection fee cleared a public hearing, shifting costs to importers and carriers to better protect local ecosystems. Tourism/Transit Oversight: Lawmakers grilled Guam Visitors Bureau and airport officials over a projected operating shortfall and the need for measurable results from a $10M airline incentive. Military & Environment: The Navy says decommissioned USS Juneau was sunk during Valiant Shield 2026 after hazardous materials were removed, while a B-2 launched an LRASM in a live-fire sinking exercise north of the Marianas.

Storm Watch: National Weather Service Guam and local emergency managers are tracking Invest 95W, now upgraded to Tropical Depression 09W, with forecasts still uncertain on where it will pass through the Marianas Sunday–Monday and how strong it could get—residents are urged to prepare for impacts ranging from heavy rain to typhoon-strength winds. Local Climate Resilience: Guam’s tourism and airport officials are facing a rough travel rebound as lawmakers grill agencies over a projected April shortfall and the need for measurable results, underscoring how weather and disruptions can quickly hit island livelihoods. Clean Energy & Emissions: The Guam Energy Office handed over eight plug-in hybrid electric vehicles to multiple GovGuam agencies, funded through federal DOE grants, aiming to cut fuel costs and reduce emissions during community services and DPW infrastructure assessments. Biosecurity & Wildlife Protection: Senators advanced Bill No. 334-38 to simplify Guam’s invasive species inspection fee collection, shifting costs to importers and carriers to better protect agriculture and ecosystems. Marine Life Research: Ocean Exploration Trust’s Nautilus is launching deep-sea expeditions east of the Mariana Trench to map habitats and biodiversity and build baselines for conservation and critical minerals.

Marianas Weather Watch: Invest 95W is organizing near the Marshall Islands, with forecasts now hinting it could affect Guam and the Northern Marianas late this weekend or early next week; no watches or warnings are up yet, but residents are urged to prep for heavy rain and possible stronger development. Water & Climate Risk: A University of Guam study using AI finds rising sea levels may already be increasing salt (chloride) in some coastal groundwater wells, raising concerns for drinking-water quality. Local Biosecurity: A Guam bill to simplify collection of the invasive species inspection fee cleared a public hearing with shipper and port support, aiming to streamline timelines without raising port fees. Tourism Oversight: Guam Visitors Bureau and airport officials faced lawmakers in a long oversight hearing over a $10M appropriation and airport revenue shortfalls tied to passenger recovery. Conservation & Research: Ocean Exploration Trust’s Nautilus is launching deep-sea expeditions to map Mariana reserves and study biodiversity and critical minerals in largely unsurveyed U.S. waters. Education Facility Update: F.B. Leon Guerrero Middle School in Yigo passed phase one of health inspection, moving it closer to reopening after a 2023 closure. Livestock Law Reform: Lawmakers advanced a bill to modernize Guam’s estray livestock rules, including higher fines and a new stewardship program, after repeated incidents involving roaming cattle.

Storm Watch: NWS and CNMI/HSEM are tracking Invest 95W, which could strengthen and pass through the Marianas late this weekend or early next week; forecasters say the track is still uncertain, but residents should keep emergency plans ready. Climate Resilience: Pacific leaders including Guam and Hawaiʻi wrapped the inaugural Pacific Climate Summit with a pledge to boost regional adaptation and resilience as rising temperatures intensify hazards. Water Security: A University of Guam study using AI finds rising sea levels may be increasing salt (chloride) in coastal groundwater wells, raising concerns for drinking-water quality. Marine Science: E/V Nautilus is launching deep-sea expeditions to map Mariana reserves and assess biodiversity and critical minerals across large areas east of the trench. Conservation & Biodiversity: A Guam orchid rescue effort is underway, and Palau’s giant clam comeback highlights grassroots conservation turning into an industry. Local Infrastructure: Dededo broke ground on a Park & Ride terminal to support the “Road to Education” transit route, with an environmental assessment underway. Pollution & Health: Guam lawmakers advanced a bill to modernize estray livestock rules after incidents, while GWA reported a dieldrin-related well shutdown and restart tied to Super Typhoon Sinlaku recovery.

Groundwater & drinking water: A new University of Guam study using AI finds rising sea levels may be pushing salt deeper into Guam’s groundwater, raising chloride in some coastal wells—an early warning for long-term water safety. Climate resilience & regional cooperation: Guam joined partners at the inaugural Pacific Climate Summit, backing shared steps to strengthen adaptation and resilience across the Pacific. Storm watch: NWS Guam is monitoring Tropical Disturbance Invest 95W, upgraded to a medium chance of development; the track is uncertain, but residents are urged to stay prepared. Local environment policy: Lawmakers advanced a bill to modernize Guam’s estray livestock laws, aiming to improve village enforcement and response capacity after incidents involving wandering cattle. Transit & land impacts: Officials broke ground on a Dededo Park & Ride tied to a new “Road to Education” route, with an environmental assessment underway. Military and environment pressure: At a Guam military buildup briefing, residents and advocates argued the island is being repositioned as a forward offensive platform without enough civilian input—raising concerns that include environmental impacts. Public health & safety: Guam’s Visitors Bureau approved a new fire rescue station for Tumon Bay as tourism tax collections held up despite a 24% May arrival decline.

Water Safety: Guam Waterworks Authority says the Mangilao well M-3, shut down earlier for dieldrin concerns, was briefly turned back on after Super Typhoon Sinlaku recovery—while officials stress levels stayed near the EPA “do not drink without treatment” threshold. Tourism & Infrastructure: The Guam Visitors Bureau reported May’s visitor arrivals fell 24%, but tourism tax collections beat budget, and the board moved ahead with a new Tumon Fire Department rescue station plan. Child Welfare Crisis: Advocates warn Guam’s foster home shortage is worsening, with dozens of children waiting and meth addiction straining families and placements. Military Buildup & Local Impact: A public hearing heard concerns Guam is being treated as a forward offensive platform, raising alarms about housing, environment, and whether residents get a real seat in decisions. Renewables on Guam: The Guam Hybrid Land Use Commission approved a conditional permit for a Yona solar farm, with commissioners raising cultural and environmental concerns about latte stones. Climate Collaboration: Guam joined the inaugural Pacific Climate Summit, backing regional commitments to adaptation and resilience. Wildlife Protection: The Navy broke ground on a missile test facility while phasing construction to relocate threatened native orchids found in the project area.

Military Buildup & Environment: A sparse crowd at Guam’s Military Buildup Informational Briefing heard concerns that Guam is being repositioned as a forward offensive platform—without civilian shelters, a seat at decision-making tables, or clear notice—while missile and drone plans raise housing, labor, infrastructure, and environmental worries. Missile Defense Land Push: An opinion piece argues Guam may be “carrying more than its fair share” as the U.S. seeks additional land for missile defense and even offensive missiles, warning residents to stay vigilant. Air Surveillance Shift: The U.S. Air Force permanently moved three RQ-4B Global Hawk drones from Andersen to Yokota, citing typhoon-season resilience but also boosting persistent Indo-Pacific monitoring near key flashpoints. Climate Cooperation: Guam joined an inaugural Pacific Climate Summit, with regional partners issuing a joint commitment to strengthen climate adaptation and resilience. Solar Progress in Yona: Guam’s Hybrid Land Use Commission approved a conditional permit for a Yona solar farm, with commissioners raising cultural and environmental concerns about latte stones and construction impacts. Wildlife Protection at Naval Base Guam: The Navy broke ground on a missile integration facility while phasing construction to relocate more than 100 threatened native orchids found in the project area. Weather Watch: A tropical trough brought heavy showers, thunderstorms, and gusty winds, with a flood advisory issued and conditions expected to improve after it clears. Drinking Water Funding: EPA announced over $25M for small and rural communities to improve drinking water systems and address contaminants like PFAS.

Military Buildup & Civilian Risk: At a reconvened Military Buildup Informational Briefing, residents and advocates warned Guam is being treated as a forward offensive platform amid missile-focused planning, with concerns about limited civilian sheltering and little say in decisions. Climate Collaboration: The inaugural Pacific Climate Summit ended with a joint commitment from Guam and other Pacific partners to boost climate adaptation and resilience, emphasizing shared impacts “from ridge to reef.” Weather Watch: A surface trough brought heavy showers, thunderstorms, and gusty winds, triggering a flood advisory; conditions are expected to improve as the system clears. Renewables on Guam: The Guam Hybrid Land Use Commission approved a conditional use permit for Pacific Energy Corporation to start building a Yona solar farm, while commissioners raised cultural preservation and environmental impact concerns. Coral-Safe Enforcement: Public Health is investigating reports of banned, coral-hurting sunscreen chemicals still being imported and sold, coordinating with customs for enforcement. Wildlife Protection in Construction: The Navy broke ground on a missile integration test facility while phasing work to relocate more than 100 threatened native orchids found in the project area. Port Accountability: The Port Authority of Guam reported a clean FY 2025 audit and lower operating expenses, alongside continued modernization and sustainability goals.

Weather Watch: A surface trough brought heavy showers, thunderstorms, and gusty winds to Guam, with a flood advisory earlier Friday and peak airport gusts near 36 mph; forecasters say conditions should improve overnight as the trough clears west, with a better outlook into Sunday and early next week. Climate & Resilience: Guam joined California, Fiji, Hawaiʻi, Kiribati, Vanuatu and Weno at the inaugural Pacific Climate Summit, where leaders issued a joint commitment to strengthen regional climate adaptation and resilience. Renewable Energy: The Guam Hybrid Land Use Commission approved a conditional use permit for Pacific Energy Corporation to build a 27-acre solar farm in Yona as part of GPA’s Phase IV, while addressing cultural and environmental concerns tied to latte stones. Coral-Safe Sunscreen Enforcement: Guam Public Health is investigating violations of laws banning coral-harming sunscreen ingredients, working with Customs to stop banned products at ports and requiring removal or disposal if confirmed. Wildlife Protection at Naval Base Guam: NAWMU-1 broke ground on a missile integration facility while phasing construction to protect threatened native orchids found in the project area, with relocation planned under a U.S. Fish and Wildlife biological opinion. Drinking Water Funding: EPA announced more than $25 million for drinking-water upgrades in small and rural communities nationwide, including efforts to address PFAS and lead. Port Accountability: The Port Authority of Guam received a clean FY 2025 audit opinion and cut operating expenses by $5.9 million, with sustainability goals added to its master plan.

Guam Renewable Energy: The Guam Hybrid Land Use Commission approved a conditional use permit for Pacific Energy Corporation to build a 27-acre photovoltaic solar farm in Yona, part of a Phase IV plan for up to 18.4 MW across the island—after commissioners raised concerns about cultural preservation and environmental impacts tied to latte stones. Wildlife Protection: At Naval Airborne Weapons Maintenance Unit One, the Navy broke ground on a new Missile Integration Test Facility while pausing and phasing construction to protect threatened native orchids found in the project footprint, with relocation planned under a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service biological opinion. Climate Collaboration: The inaugural First Pacific Climate Summit wrapped with a joint commitment from Guam and other Pacific partners to strengthen climate adaptation and resilience through deeper regional cooperation. Public Health & Environment: Guam’s Public Health is investigating violations tied to banned, coral-harming sunscreen chemicals (oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene), coordinating with customs to stop shipments and pursue enforcement. Port Sustainability & Governance: The Port Authority of Guam received a clean FY 2025 audit, cut operating expenses by $5.9M, and reported a $40.9M year-end net position, while pointing to zero-emission and zero-waste goals in its updated master plan. Hospital Quality Prep: Guam Memorial Hospital Authority is preparing for national accreditation through CIHQ, with support from the Guam National Guard for facility improvement and modernization.

Climate Collaboration: The inaugural Pacific Climate Summit wrapped up with Guam and other Pacific partners issuing a joint commitment to boost climate adaptation and resilience across the region, focusing on protecting coastlines, watersheds, and communities. Renewable Energy & Land Use: Guam’s Hybrid Land Use Commission approved a conditional use permit for Pacific Energy Corporation to start building a Yona solar farm (27 acres) as part of a broader push for up to 18.4 MW of renewable power, while addressing cultural and environmental concerns tied to latte stones. Wildlife Protection in Military Projects: NAWMU-1 broke ground on a new Missile Integration Test Facility at Naval Base Guam while phasing construction to protect more than 100 threatened native orchids found in the project area, with relocation plans coordinated through a biological opinion. Coral-Reef Safety Enforcement: Guam Public Health is investigating violations tied to banned, coral-harming sunscreen ingredients (oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene), working with customs to stop shipments and pursue removal and fines when confirmed. Port Accountability: The Port Authority of Guam reported another clean audit opinion, cutting operating expenses by $5.9 million and improving its net position—an update that signals stronger financial footing for future infrastructure needs.

Conservation & Military Impact: NAWMU-1 broke ground on a new Missile Integration Test Facility at Naval Base Guam, but environmental surveys found more than 100 threatened native orchids in the construction zone, so the Navy is phasing work and relocating the plants under a formal U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service biological opinion. Renewable Energy: The Guam Hybrid Land Use Commission approved a conditional use permit for Pacific Energy Corporation to start building a 27-acre solar farm in Yona (part of a plan for up to 18.4 MW across the island), after commissioners raised concerns about cultural sites and latte stones. Climate Collaboration: Guam joined partners at the First Pacific Climate Summit, which ended with a joint commitment to strengthen regional climate adaptation and resilience. Reef-Safe Sunscreen Enforcement: Guam Public Health is investigating violations of Guam’s ban on coral-hurting sunscreen ingredients (oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene), coordinating with Customs to stop banned products at ports of entry. Health System Upgrade: Guam Memorial Hospital Authority is preparing for national accreditation through CIHQ, with the Guam National Guard supporting facility improvement work ahead of an August application and a survey expected months later. Public Safety: A reminder from AP on rip currents: lifeguards urge people to stay calm, flip onto their back, and float out of danger.

Guam & CNMI Public Health: The Department of Public Health and Social Service is investigating violations tied to banned, coral-hurting sunscreen chemicals (oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene), working with Customs to stop shipments at ports and requiring violators to remove products from commerce. Invasive Species & Community Action: UOG and partners held a Brown Treesnake workshop and SnakeHunt at Tarague Beach, teaching residents how to identify, safely handle, and dispatch the invasive snake that threatens Guam’s native wildlife. Youth Conservation Jobs: Guam Green Growth and UOG launched the first G3 Youth Conservation Corps, giving high school students hands-on training in sustainability and the green economy. Storm Update: Tropical Storm Higos has weakened and is pulling away from the Marianas, with lingering showers possible but conditions expected to improve for Guam and Rota. Coastal Safety: A new AP explainer urges beachgoers to stay calm, flip onto your back, and float out if caught in a rip current. Soil & Farming Support: UOG’s Land Grant is inviting residents to a “Know Your Soil” sampling workshop to help guide more environmentally responsible fertilizer and crop decisions. Policy & Environment: A House NDAA provision would push the Pentagon to deploy a transportable nuclear reactor in the Indo-Pacific by 2030, with Guam and Hawaii prioritized—prompting renewed safety concerns.