- 11/2019 - DLNR: Rhino beetle found in Aguiguan
Northern Mariana Islands
State Plant Health Director
Vernon Harrington, (808) 838-2780
Directs federal APHIS-PPQ pest detection and regulatory activities in cooperation with state officials, and coordinate the initial PPQ emergency response if an exotic pest is detected in the state.
State Plant Regulatory Official
Vacant
Serves on the National Plant Board, oversees state pest detection and regulatory activities and coordinates survey activities between government agencies, public and private organizations. Coordinates the state’s initial emergency response if an exotic pest is detected.
State Survey Coordinator
Michael Melzer, (808) 956-7887
Coordinates CAPS survey planning, execution and reporting as well as community outreach activities.
Pest Survey Specialist
Sheldon Arakawa, (808) 743-1535
Provides technical support in planning, executing and reporting annual surveys and coordinates pest detection activities with neighboring states.