April 9, 2026 — The following was released by the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council:
The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council, in partnership with the Pacific Islands Fisheries Group (PIFG) and local partners, has postponed the Mariana Islands Community Consultation meetings scheduled for April 13-16, 2026.
This decision follows close monitoring of Typhoon 04W, which is forecast to pass near Guam between Monday and Tuesday, April 13–14. Out of an abundance of caution, and in line with regional weather monitoring and emergency preparedness efforts, the Council and its partners are prioritizing the safety of community members, fishers and staff.
The meetings were intended to build on discussions from October 2025 by providing updates on community input, sharing ongoing efforts, and engaging fishers in collaborative activities such as fish mapping and fisher observations. These efforts remain a priority, and all meetings will be rescheduled to a later dateto ensure meaningful community participation. Updated meeting dates will be announced when available.
Community members are strongly encouraged to stay informed through official weather updates, take necessary precautions and focus on preparedness as the storm approaches.
(Now Postponed) Meeting Schedule:
● Saipan, CNMI
Date: April 13, 2026 (Monday)
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (ChST)
Location: Crowne Plaza Resort, Azucena Room, Coral Tree Ave, Garapan
● Tinian, CNMI
Date: April 14, 2026 (Tuesday)
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (ChST)
Location: Tinian Western Lodge, Conference Center, Canal St
● Hagåtña, GU
Date: April 16, 2026 (Thursday)
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (ChST)
Location: Guam Museum, Multi Purpose Room, 193 Chalan Santo Papa Juan Pablo Dos