Ao Feng Zheng (Louis)

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The palm tree or Arecaceae is not only indicative of a warm climate or just a cool shade the lay under. For many islanders, the palm tree is a source of food. Before western civilization colonized the Northern Mariana Islands, the Chamorro people relied on primarily fishing, breadfruit, and the coconut of the palm tree. The coconut provided the islanders with its nutritious meat and refreshing drink. Today, though it still provides for a chunk of the islands’ food, it has a become a symbol of home. Its historical, cultural, and agricultural value should drive persons to protect them against man-made threats such as pollution and climate change. Let us not forget the importance of the palm tree.