A recently published, Saipan-based study titled “Green Roof: Monitoring Soil Moisture, Plant Health, and Stormwater Management” was conducted and curated by Northern Marianas College’s NextGen Scholars Ejay Aguirre and Cloie Seo.
The study focuses on analyzing soil quality in four residential villages in Saipan to identify suitable soils for agricultural practices. It explores factors such as pH levels, moisture retention, soil composition, evapotranspiration, and how they influence stormwater management and plant growth.
Ejay Aguirre, a 2024 NMC Pre-Engineering graduate, is currently majoring in Data Science at the University of Utah. “I hope to continue graduate studies in the future, though undecided as to what subject to pursue,” he noted.
Cloie Seo began her academic journey as a Liberal Arts major at NMC. As of this semester, she successfully transferred to the University of Southern California, where she is now pursuing a major in Chemistry. “I have a strong desire to remain in education for as long as possible, exploring various fields of study and considering a range of career paths along the way,” she expressed.
Aguirre and Seo collaborated on this study as part of their Alternative Research Experience for Undergraduates (AltREU) through Portland State University (PSU).
This study was published with the hopes of providing the CNMI with beneficial data to support the design and implementation of green roof projects.
“These green roofs could help manage stormwater, mitigate the urban heat island effect, and potentially improve local agriculture practices,” they explained. “Furthermore, the study contributes to sustainable practices that could enhance tourism, connect with cultural horticultural practices, and address environmental challenges.”
“As the chair of the Science, Math, Health, and Athletics department, I am immensely proud of Ejay Aguirre and Cloie Seo for their dedication to this research and their continued academic success,” said Velma Deleon Guerrero.
“Their work on soil quality and green roof systems highlights not only their scientific curiosity but also their commitment to addressing real-world environmental challenges in the CNMI. This study not only benefits our local communities but also underscores the importance of research as a vital component of sustainable development and innovation. We look forward to seeing their future contributions to science and society.”
Aguirre and Seo acknowledge the support of the AltREU program at PSU, the NMC Science, Math, Health, and Athletics (SMHA) department for providing chemical and physical materials for conducting soil compositions, and the Creating Opportunities for the Marianas: Pathway for Access and Student Success (COMPASS) for overlooking their project’s design.
The PDF of their research project may be accessed at https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/