This month, we are pleased to feature CWSF Member, Lajkit Rufus, State Forester for the Republic of the Marshall Islands. 

What was your first position in the field of forestry?
My first position in the field of forestry was working as an internship student at the US Forest Service on a project “Vegetative Guide and Dashboard” that provided atoll agroforestry recommendations to predict climate and sea level condition in the Marshall Islands.

Recently, I have been hired to be the State Forester for the Republic of the Marshall Islands - Ministry of Resources and Development.

How long have you been in your role?
I have been in my role for 6 months now. I look forward to working very hard for the Ministry of Resources and Development to make differences.

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the Pacific Islands Forestry Committee?
Being a member of the Pacific Islands Forestry committee, I enjoy working with our indigenous plants here in the RMI and provide outreach and training on native plants species to students, communities, Landowners, others. I also enjoy working on doing households and school gardening (strengthen food security in the Republic of the Marshall Islands)

What do you see to be the emerging issues in your island?
Climate change and sea level issues.

What would you do (for a career) if you weren’t doing this?
More replanting and doing gardening on vegetable, fruits and local plants.