About the Project
Similar to other Pacific Islands, traditional diets in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) have been largely replaced by imported western foods, leading to harmful dietary changes and increased risk for chronic disease. In addition, much of the land is not being actively farmed. Hence, it is evident that the CNMI heavily relies on imported foods. Together, this reflects the underutilization of land for food production, which negatively impacts the food system, economy, and health of CNMI residents. One example is the experiences of a CNMI Public School System (PSS) food service vendor Kalayaan, Inc., who requires about 1,050 pounds of lettuce to supply its daily operations and about 3,550 pounds of lettuce for PSS. As such, there is a demonstrated need for fresh produce in the CNMI, coupled with a surplus of farm land that is underutilized.
The Coral Coast Foundation Corporation (CCFC) aims to address this need by establishing a functional hydroponic farm to grow and serve hydroponic lettuce to reduce reliance on imports and provide CNMI PSS with access to produce that is locally grown, sustainable, and nutritious.
In preparation for this project, CCFC consulted with local organizations such as the Northern Marianas College Cooperative Research, Extension, and Education Services. Discussions included seed germination, equipment use, and facility setup. Furthermore, CCFC has collaborated with the PSS food service vendor Kalayaan, Inc. in assessing the demand of lettuce required in its everyday operations. During the process, a survey was also distributed to the community and responses were collected and analyzed. The survey aimed to explore the driving factors for the adoption of hydroponics and understand the current challenges faced. The results revealed information on the state of hydroponics implementation, its potential impact on agriculture, and a foundation for making informed decisions and recommendations to further promote sustainable agricultural practices.
Project Impact
Impact Report
Project Logic Model
NMI CHL Food Systems Model and Project Logic Model
CLD Audio only
Video transcript
5b CLD and Logic Model Map.pdf