Guam’s Biodiverse Ecosystem and Eco-Tourism

Surahana Bernice Nelson has been a practitioner of naturopathic medicine since the 1960s, using natural remedies to support the body’s inherent ability to heal itself. She currently leases a three-acre farm named “Åmot TaoTaoTano.” Today, her business partner, Susan Marie Taitano Aguon, joined her in managing the farm. Susan is also from a long lineage of healers—the Sutiano family—and has been practicing naturopathy since childhood. Both women are natives of Saipan and relocated to Guam in the early 1990s.

“Suruhana” comes from the Spanish word *cirujano*, meaning “surgeon” or “healer.” The name “Bernice,” known as *yo’åmte* in the native language, originates from two Chamorro words: *yo’*, meaning “to do,” and *åmte*, meaning “to apply first aid, treat wounds, or cure sickness.” 

In the Chamorro language specific to Guam, “Åmot TaoTaoTano” translates to “Medicine for the People of the Land,” highlighting the importance of native medicinal plants and traditional healing practices.

According to the 2020 Census, Guam has a population of 167,000 and 51,555 households. For more than five decades, Åmot TaoTaoTano has catered to the community’s herbal needs while emphasizing the preservation of rare medicinal plants collected through generations. The dedication of Bernice and Susan to their community’s well-being and their passion for healing are truly commendable.

The farm hosts over 200 varieties of home-grown plants used in traditional healing practices. It attracts an estimated 300 visitors annually, leading to numerous requests for herbal medicine. It is crucial for our experts and local community to identify ways to support and provide resources for the farm. 

The family faces challenges in maintaining the farm, including funding, an increased demand for volunteers, and the need for expertise. Building resilience and contingency is essential to sustain a biodiverse ecosystem in Guam that is rich in history and provides invaluable services to the community.

Why is Åmot TaoTaoTano Important for Guam?  

The farm enhances the health and well-being of the community, serves as a source of eco-tourism, acts as a space for Guamanian cultural practices, and benefits the ecosystem through soil regulation, air purification, climate control, food production, and herbal medicine. The community must prioritize the preservation of Åmot TaoTaoTano for future generations, as the benefits greatly outweigh the risks of its extinction.

### Fund the Conservation and Preservation Effort of Åmot TaoTaoTano Farm  

To maintain the farm effectively, we require human resources, financial support, and garden materials to ensure the health of our plant diversity. As the saying goes, “It takes a village to raise a child,” similarly, it takes a community to support conservation and preservation efforts. Public agencies and private companies are encouraged to participate in this initiative.

### Horticulturists, Gardeners, and Volunteers Needed  

The three-acre farm needs attention and expertise. With many medicinal herbs becoming increasingly scarce, specialists must address diseases and promote healthy gardening practices. If you have a passion for outdoor work, consider volunteering a few hours to learn about medicinal herbs and assist in caring for the farm.

### Preserving a Historic Site and Establishing a Designated Biodiverse Community for Guam  

Bernice’s family is currently leasing the land, and efforts are underway to maintain the farm as a historic site and designate it as a Biodiverse Community for Guam. This represents an opportunity to develop eco-tourism that fosters the growth, heritage, and culture of the people of Guam.

### Call to Action  

The community is encouraged to engage in conservation efforts beyond volunteering. For more information on how to help the farm, please contact Ms. Susan Marie Taitano Aguon at 1-671-483-8191 or via email at [email address].