Palau’s Ancient Earthworks: OBLALLANG The ancient terraces (oblallang) on the island of Babeldaob, in Palau, can be seen under the thick tropical vegetation using the lasar technology called LiDAR. The dense tree canopy is removed to show the vast extent and massive size of the island’s unique earth architecture. These terraces date back to 2,000 years ago, were the basis of their sophisticated socio-political system, and are still standing today. This work was funded by the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation. Awarded to archaeologist Dr. Jolie Liston and the Coral Reef Research Foundation, the project aims to help preserve Palau’s heritage displayed in its earthwork landscape for future generations. #AFCP #AmbassadorsFundforCulturalPreservation #usembassykoror (fb)

MARINE INVERTEBRATE & INVASIVE SPECIES WORKSHOP: NGIWAL, MELEKEOK, AIRAI AND HATOHOBEI CRRF recently completed a workshop on marine invasive species in Ngiwal State from July 3–5, 2024. Six state rangers and three PAN coordinators from Ngiwal, Melekeok, Airai and Hatohobei State participated in the 3 day workshop. Like the last 3 workshops, participants learned about: • marine invertebrate groups, sea grass and algae; • risks and pathways of marine invasive species; and • marine non-native species currently found in Palau. Along with morning lecture sessions, participants explored Ngiwal State waters near the dock and along the channel, documenting common marine organisms found in reefs and seagrass beds. Participants also dried and pressed algae samples, documenting the variety of algae found in the area. CRRF thanks PAN coordinators Willa Wong and Dearlyn Rebluud for their help in organizing the workshop. We also thank the participants in making this a successful workshop. The training workshop was funded by the U.S. Department of Interior, Office of Insular Affairs. #invasivespecies #marine #DOI (fb)