SLSU teams up with MSU-IIT for Project MSMC's 2nd Mangrove Research Sampling Initiative

The mangrove research team of SLSU and MSU-IIT once again embarked on an extensive 3-day mangrove research sampling initiative within the vast expanse of the Caraga region's mangrove forests, representing the eastern seaboard mangrove ecosystem in the research undertaking.

The team made first the reconnaissance survey with the help of local officials in the mangrove forests of Surigao to assess and gather preliminary data and insights as to where to conduct the mangrove community structure, microorganisms, and soil/carbon stock assessments and collect samples. Through this examination, the project sought to discern the role of mangroves, microorganisms, and sediment in soil stabilization, nutrient cycling, and the sequestration of carbon—a vital aspect in the context of climate change mitigation on the local and national scale.

The team also paid a visit to the campus of Surigao del Norte State University (SNSU) as the institution is one of the collaborators of the mangrove project for its strong reputation in biodiversity research which aligns perfectly with the goals of the project. The team made a short excursion inside the campus and engaged in an intellectual discourse with some of its environmental science faculty who also actively participated in the mangrove sampling undertaking.

In essence, Project MSMC's second mangrove research sampling initiative represents a commendable scholarly effort, advancing our understanding of the complexities inherent to mangrove ecosystems and fostering further collaboration for a more robust foundation for informed conservation and management decisions in the ever-evolving context of environmental science and coastal resilience at the local and national level.

The activity aligned with SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life on Water), SDG 15 (Life on Land) and SDG 17 (Partnership for the Goals).