Senate fiscal committee reviews DLNR budget as invasive‑species grants await NEPA clearance

The Senate Fiscal Affairs Committee heard an overview of the Department of Lands and Natural Resources (DLNR) fiscal 2026 request and questioned agency leaders on delayed federal grants, vacant positions and maintenance needs across Saipan, Tinian and Rota.

DLNR Secretary Yso Mar told the committee the department supports the governor’s submitted budget but said the agency is relying on a mix of revolving funds and federal grants to sustain operations. “We recognize that our economy is hurting, and everybody’s gotta take a pinch somewhere, and we do the same at DLNR,” the secretary said during an opening statement.

Why it matters: DLNR handles biosecurity, parks, fisheries, agriculture, land registration and other island resources. Committee members repeatedly pressed DLNR on grant delays that affect frontline biosecurity work — including personnel for traps, inspections and entomology — and on the practical effect at ports and marinas where increased military and commercial traffic has raised officials’ concern about new pest introductions.

Most significant takeaways - Grants and FTEs pending NEPA review: DLNR reported 19 positions associated with invasive‑species funding; 10 are vacant and most of the vacancies relate to awards waiting for environmental (NEPA) review and federal clearance before…