AMERICAN SAMOA

Ocean 

Plan

2018

FOR THE SPATIAL

 PLANNING OF 

AMERICAN SAMOA’S 

COASTS AND OCEAN

American Samoa Ocean Plan | i

Acknowledgments

This plan would not have been possible without the contributions and 

dedication from members of the American Samoa Ocean Planning Team 

(ASOPT) and the thoughtful input from the communities and ocean users on 

Tutuila, Aunu’u, Ta’u, Olesega, and Ofu.

The American Samoa Ocean Planning Team would like to thank the Gordon 

and Betty Moore Foundation, American Samoa Department of Marine and 

Wildlife Resources, American Samoa Department of Port Administration, and 

the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for funding this project, 

and for the valuable feedback received from their staff. The ASOPT would 

also like to thank Christopher Hawkins for providing the policy history in the 

first chapter and the Udall Foundation for its hard work on the stakeholder 

assessment portion of this plan. Lastly, we are humbled and grateful for the 

volunteer translation services provided by Kalilimoku Hunt.

Sincere acknowledgment is extended to the ASOPT Chairs Chris King and Nate 

Ilaoa, former American Samoa PI RPB Members: Ruth Matagi-Tofiga, Henry 

Sesepasara, and Claire Poumele that championed this work across the years, 

and the dynamic duo Sarah Pautzke and Miranda Foley who authored and 

facilitated the body of this work.

Manu'a Islands. © Sarah Pautzke
A Note to Users

This document is intended to provide guidance for agencies, individuals, or other entities proposing 

an activity or action in the waters of American Samoa. The information in this document is intended 

to encourage compatible uses, reduce use conflicts, and balance sustainable ocean use with marine 

conservation. The content also provides information about research needs regarding environmental, 

economic, and social data gaps.

The content offers a comprehensive reference to existing spatial data regarding ocean use and provides 

deeper insights into stakeholder perspectives regarding preferred ocean uses and locations for such, as 

well as potential conflicts associated with proposed uses. 

This document is not a stand-alone plan to manage the marine and coastal ecosystems of American 

Samoa. Rather, it is better understood as a consensus-based blueprint for harnessing the regulatory, 

enforcement, and other capacities of the various local and federal agencies charged with guiding 

marine development, conservation, preservation, utilization, and maritime shipping in the Territory.

As with every printed document in the digital age, this is a snapshot of a current place in time. 

Consult the Pacific Islands Regional Marine Mapper and local agencies for real-time data and policies.

Photo left: Many families rely on fish caught in 

the nearshore areas by local fishermen such as 

this one in Lauli'i Village. © Nate Ilaoa. 

Photo right: Multiple use of Pago Pago Harbor 

as a fautasi passes a cargo vessel. 

© Miranda Foley
American Samoa Ocean Plan | iii

AMERICAN SAMOA GOVERNMENT 

AGENCY MEMBERS

Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources

• Va’amua Henry Sesepasara, Director 

(ASOPT Lead; PI RPB Member)

• Selaina V. Tuimavave, Deputy Director 

(PI RPB Alternate)

• Domingo Ochavillo, Ph.D., 

Chief Fisheries Biologist, Marine Division

• Maria Vaofanua, Information 

Education Division

Department of Commerce

• Sandra Aigalesala Fuimaono Lutu, 

Coastal Management Program

• Gina Faiga-Naseri, Coastal 

Management Program

• Joseph Meredith, Geospatial Program

• Michael J. McDonald, Territorial Planner, 

Planning Division

• Patrick Ti’a Reid, Program Coordinator, 

Planning Division

• Tufanua Mase, General Planner, 

Planning Division

• Pilivesburg Salanoa, Economic Planner, 

Planning Division

Department of Port Administration

• Christopher King, Deputy Director 

(PI RPB Alternate)

Environmental Protection Agency

• Mia Comeros, Research Scientist

• Fa‘amao Asalele, Deputy Director 

Office of Samoan Affairs

• Keneti Tanuvasa, Administrative Officer

FEDERAL AGENCY MEMBERS

NOAA Fisheries

• Fatima Sauafea-Leau, Fish Biologist

NOAA Sanctuaries 

• Atuatasi Lelei Peau, Acting Superintendent, 

National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa

• Joseph Paulin, Sanctuary Advisory Council 

Coordinator

NOAA Office of Coastal Management

• Hideyo Hattori, Site Liaison, Coral Reef 

Conservation Program (CRCP) and Coastal Zone 

Management Program (CZMP)

US Fish and Wildlife Service

• Brian Peck, Superintendent, 

Rose Atoll Marine National Monument

National Park Service

• Scott Burch, Superintendent, 

National Park of American Samoa

• Bert Fuiava, Marine Biotech

US Coast Guard

• CDR Brian Donahue (PI RPB Member)

• LT Kevin Whalen

• LT Vignette Kaltsas

• LT Tanner Stiehl

Department of Defense

• Nicole Griffin (Marine Corps; PI RPB Member)

ADDITIONAL NON-FEDERAL MEMBERS

Western Pacific Fishery Management Council

• Nate Ilaoa, AS Island Coordinator

• Christinna Lutu-Sanchez, Council Member

• Krista Corry, Western Pacific Fishery Management 

Council Advisory Panel

American Samoa Ocean Planning Team
iv | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Ocean Planning in American Samoa

Tapenaga o le Vasa i Amerika Samoa

Ocean Planning in American Samoa .........................................................................................................1

A History of Spatial Planning ..............................................................................................................2

A Brief Policy History of Important Events in US Ocean Planning...................................... 4

Background on Regional Ocean Planning..................................................................................... 6

Ocean Planning in the US Pacific Islands .......................................................................................7

American Samoa Ocean Planning.....................................................................................................7

Key Partners in the Planning Process ............................................................................................10

Stakeholders in the Planning Process............................................................................................12

Ocean Planning Framework...............................................................................................................14

Vision....................................................................................................................................................14

Geographic Focus ...........................................................................................................................14

Guiding Principles............................................................................................................................17

Goals and Objectives .....................................................................................................................17

Approach to the American Samoa Ocean Plan...................................................................18

Moving Ahead under Existing Authorities .............................................................................19

Autu 1: Sami Ma Le Gataifale Matagofie Ma Le Saogalemu

Goal 1: Healthy Ocean and Coastal Ecosystems ................................................................................ 21

Objective 1: Spatially Identify Species’ Habitats to Protect, Maintain 

And/Or Restore Healthy Ocean and Coastal Ecosystems and Natural Beauty............. 21

Objective 2: Support Coordination of Efforts to Prevent or Reduce Coastal 

and Marine Sources of Pollution Affecting Our Oceans ........................................................24

Objective 3: Spatially Plan for Ocean Ecosystem Changes and Increased Risks.........29

Autu 2: O Le Mautu Ma Lelei O Le Fa’aaogaina O Le Sami Ma Le Gataifale

Goal 2: Sustainable Ocean and Coastal Uses.....................................................................................35

Current Uses of the Coastal and Ocean Waters of American Samoa..............................35

Objective 1: Encourage Sustainable and Appropriate Coastal 

and Ocean Development and Uses................................................................................................43

Objective 2: Spatially Plan Coastal and Ocean Resources and Uses to 

Ensure Economic Resilience.............................................................................................................47

Objective 3: Enhance, Promote, and Maintain Sustainable Traditional Values 

and Knowledge As They Relate to Coastal and Ocean Uses...............................................48

Contents
American Samoa Ocean Plan | v

Objective 4: Account for National Security Interests in the AS Coastal 

and Ocean Waters Through Enhanced Coordination, Increased Transparency, and 

Sharing of Information Across Territorial and Federal Agencies and Ocean Users..... 51

Objective 5: Spatially Plan for Enhanced Food Security....................................................... 52

Saienisi, Fa’amaumauga ma Metotia

Science, Data, and Tools.............................................................................................................................55

American Samoa and the Pacific Islands Regional Marine Planner ..................................55

Overview and Summary of PIRMP Content................................................................................56

Fa’atinoga o le Ta’iala

Plan Implementation.....................................................................................................................................61

ASOPT Roles ...........................................................................................................................................61

American Samoa Governance .........................................................................................................62

Federal Governance.............................................................................................................................63

Plan Updates...........................................................................................................................................63

References.......................................................................................................................................................64

Appendices.....................................................................................................................................................65

Appendix 1: Deeds of Cession..................................................................................................................66

Appendix 2: National Level Documents and PI RPB Documents Links...................................69

Appendix 3: Foundational Documents of the PI RPB (Invite and Nomination Letters)....70

Appendix 4: Listening Session Participants ....................................................................................... 74

Appendix 5: Stakeholder Engagement ................................................................................................76

Appendix 6: Stakeholder Assessment Executive Summary - in Samoan ...............................80

Appendix 7: American Samoa Agencies, Federal Agencies, and Other Partners ...............85

Appendix 8: Regulatory and Management Context........................................................................88

Appendix 9: Ecologically-rich Area Identification Draft Mid-Atlantic Framework ..............93

Appendix 10: Use Category Tables ........................................................................................................96

Appendix 11: PNRS Board and Its Respective Review Functions .............................................100

Appendix 12: Ocean Plan Input from Stakeholders ........................................................................ 101 Photo left: View of Pago Pago Harbor and 

the village of Pago Pago from Mt. Alava. 

© Sarah Pautzke
vi | American Samoa Ocean Plan
American Samoa Ocean Plan | vii

ArcGIS Arc geographic information system

AS American Samoa

ASDOC CMP American Samoa Coastal Management Program

ASEPA American Samoa Environmental Protection Agency 

AS HPO American Samoa Historic Preservation Office

ASCC American Samoa Community College 

AS DMWR Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources 

 (American Samoa) 

ASDOC American Samoa Department of Commerce

ASDOC GIS ASDOC Geographic Information System Division

ASDPS Department of Public Safety

ASG American Samoa Government 

ASOPT American Samoa Ocean Planning Team 

ASPA American Samoa Power Authority

BMP Best management practices

BOEM Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (US DOI)

CCTF Climate Change Task Force

CFMP Community-based fishery management program

CMP Coastal Management Program (American Samoa)

CMSP Coastal and Marine Spatial Planning

CNMI Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

CZMA Coastal Zone Management Act

DHS Department of Homeland Security

DMWR CRAG Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources 

 Coral Reef Advisory Group

DOI US Department of Interior 

DPA Department of Port Administration 

 (American Samoa)

DPR Department of Parks and Recreation 

 (American Samoa)

EEZ Exclusive Economic Zone

EFH Essential Fish Habitat

ESA Endangered Species Act

FMCs Fishery management councils

GIS Geographic Information System

HMP Hazard Mitigation Plan

IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature

MDP Marine Debris Program (ASEPA)

Mid-A ROAP Mid-Atlantic Regional Ocean Action Plan

MPA Marine Protected Area 

MSA Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Management 

 and Conservation Act

NFIP National Flood Insurance Program

NMFS National Marine Fisheries Service 

NMSA National Marine Sanctuaries Act

NOAA National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration 

NOAA NWS National Weather Service (NOAA)

NOAA OLE Office of Law Enforcement (NOAA)

NOAA OCM Office of Coast Management (NOAA)

NOC National Ocean Council

OSA Office of Samoan Affairs

PacIOOS Pacific Islands Ocean Observing System

pGIS participatory Geographic Information System mapping

PI RPB Pacific Islands Regional Planning Body

Plan American Samoa Ocean Plan

PIFSC Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center (NOAA NMFS)

PIRO Pacific Islands Regional Office (NOAA NMFS)

PNRS Project Notification Review System

ROP Regional Ocean Partnership

RPB Regional Planning Body

SPREP Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Program 

TEK Traditional Ecological Knowledge

TEMCO Territorial Emergency Management Office (AS DHS)

UNCLOS United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea

US United States

USACE US Army Corps of Engineers

USCG US Coast Guard

USCOP US Commission on Ocean Policy

USFWS US Fish and Wildlife Service

WPFMC Western Pacific Fishery Management Council 

List of Acronyms

Ofu port. © Sarah Pautzke
viii | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Ocean Planning in American Samoa
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 1

Tapenaga o le Vasa i Amerika Samoa

Ocean Planning in American Samoa

This American Samoa Ocean Plan is the first ocean 

plan to be completed by the United States for 

jurisdictions in the Western Pacific Region. The 

United States has already completed ocean plans 

for the mainland Atlantic coast in the Mid-Atlantic

and Northeast regions. A vibrant and healthy 

coastal and ocean environment is essential to the 

perpetuation of the Samoan culture and way of life 

(Fa’a Samoa). Yet, intensified coastal and ocean 

recreational and commercial uses are creating 

resource use conflicts, and land use is degrading 

coastal water quality and coral reef ecosystems. 

American Samoa is facing significant challenges in 

preserving the health of its ocean resources and 

the benefits those resources provide. In addition, 

regional and global conditions beyond direct control 

within American Samoa create new challenges, 

such as sea level rise, increased frequency and 

severity of storms, and marine debris. Coastal and 

marine spatial planning, or ocean planning, can 

ensure compatible ocean use and conserve ocean 

resources to ensure the vibrant coastal and ocean 

environments.

Limited usable land restricts much of the 

development in American Samoa to the coasts 

with very little ability to move upland or inland. 

Population growth and increased economic activity 

had already led to increased and conflicting 

demands on limited Pago Pago Harbor land at 

the end of the 1990s (Lyon Associates 2001). 

Developed areas, such as the seaport (Figure 1) 

on Tutuila, have little room to expand. Conversely, 

this same limitation is a strong driver for American 

Samoa to be innovative and adamant about wise 

resource planning. 

American Samoa has not yet reached a point of 

overexploitation of its ocean resources. It remains 

relatively isolated and continues to have a strong 

adherence to Fa’a Samoa. The ocean planning 

process provides a tool to guide the growing and 

evolving uses of the coastal and marine waters, 

Figure 1. Fishing vessels and sail boats moored next to the 

Pago Pago Seaport Dock. © Christopher Hawkins

View of Pago Pago Harbor and active 

seaport from Mt. Alava. © Sarah Pautzke
2 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Ocean Planning in American Samoa

including tourism, recreation, infrastructure, and 

commerce, so that American Samoa can ensure 

uses are compatible, non-conflicting, and do not 

degrade ocean sustainability or Fa’a Samoa.

American Samoa began its ocean planning 

process in January 2016 after the American Samoa 

Government (ASG) recognized the opportunity 

ocean planning provides in the territory. The team 

members of the American Samoa Ocean Planning 

Team (ASOPT) include the ASG agencies and 

federal agencies that manage ocean resources 

within the American Samoa Exclusive Economic 

Zone (EEZ). This Plan is a compilation of 

their efforts.

American Samoa was granted special rights to 

maintain its traditions, culture, and unique control 

of its lands and waters under the Deeds of Cession 

signed in 1900 (Tutuila and Aunu’u) and in 1904 

(Manu`a Islands) by the island’s traditional leaders, 

chiefs and the US government (Appendix 1). 

As such, the United States respects and preserves 

American Samoa’s customary uses and cultural 

practices. 

The American Samoa Ocean Planning efforts are 

built on the foundation set by the Deeds of Cession 

and incorporate a process to promote thoughtful 

and wise use of limited space and ocean resources 

to encourage compatible uses, reduce use conflicts, 

and balance sustainable ocean use with marine 

conservation and protection of Fa’a Samoa.

A History of Spatial Planning

For millennia, maps have been used to tell the 

story of where things are. The earliest known map 

was created 14,000 years ago (Utrilla 2009). A 

stone tablet, found in a cave in the Navarra region 

of northern Spain, described the surrounding 

landscape and man-made features such as the 

Figure 2. World’s sea traffic as seen from the International Space Station. www.nasa.gov

Ocean planning encourages 

compatible uses, reduces use 

conflicts, and balances sustainable 

use with marine conservation.
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 3

Figure 3. Undersea cables of the world. www.arstechnica.com

cave and a nearby bridge. The map also illustrated 

places where natural resources like water, foraging, 

and game were abundant. In the eons since, maps 

have become more sophisticated and even digitized 

so that information contained with maps can be 

overlapped and compared. That map of the Navarra 

region can now be analyzed with maps containing 

different information for the same geographic 

area, including fossil records, weather patterns, 

etc. Modern maps describe human uses, natural 

resources, and areas where those elements may 

conflict or provide opportunity.

In the modern era, humans have migrated well 

beyond the cave. Knowledge of the world’s natural 

resources and the footprint of man-made structures 

extends from deep-sea trenches to beyond the 

outer limits of Earth’s atmosphere. Human use 

extends to every corner of the globe. While land use 

plans have been a crucial component of wise land 

use, planners and managers have not brought these 

same tools to bear in ocean planning until recently. 

Ocean planning is a process that largely mirrors the 

spatial planning efforts that have enabled intensive 

but wise use of land-based resources.

The ocean planning process often begins with 

maps that show locations of current ocean uses, 

such as fishing and shipping (Figure 2; Figure 

3). With stakeholder and agency collaboration, 

ocean planning teams generate maps that tie to 

existing management tools that governments and 

communities already use to make decisions about 

ocean uses and resources.

Governments and communities around the world 

have begun to enact ocean plans to promote 

thoughtful and wise use of limited space and 

ocean resources (Figure 4). Throughout the Pacific, 

New Zealand, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Fiji, and 

Tonga are already using marine spatial planning to 

encourage compatible uses, reduce use conflicts, 
4 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Ocean Planning in American Samoa

and balance sustainable ocean use with marine 

conservation. Ocean planning in the US is described 

in detail below.

A Brief Policy History of Important Events 

in US Ocean Planning

Modern ocean management concepts are rooted in 

Mare Liberum, or The Freedom of the Seas, a Latin 

treatise written by Dutch jurist and philosopher 

Hugo Grotius in 1609. Grotius was the first to 

comprehensively articulate the principle that the 

sea is international territory, and all nations are free 

to use it unimpeded for seafaring commerce and 

transportation. 

More recently, US President Harry Truman 

proclaimed in the Truman Proclamation of 1945 that 

resources found on the continental shelf contiguous 

to the United States belonged to the United States. 

This was a radical departure from established 

principle that 1) a narrow strip of coastal waters was 

under the exclusive sovereignty of the coastal state, 

and 2) the unregulated area beyond that (known as 

the high seas) was open to all. 

During the late 1950s, the Convention on the High 

Seas resulted in an international treaty that codified 

the rules of international law relating to the open 

ocean. It was signed on April 29, 1958 and was 

one of four treaties created at the United Nations 

Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS I). The 

Treaty entered into international force at the end of 

Figure 4. Map of countries using marine spatial planning. (http://msp.ioc-unesco.org/) 
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 5

September 1962. While the United States has not 

ratified this treaty, it recognizes it as a codification 

of customary international law.

The early 1970s saw the passage of the Coastal 

Zone Management Act (CZMA) and National 

Marine Sanctuaries Act (NMSA). The CZMA 

promoted an integrated approach to managing 

coastal resources. An important feature of the 

CZMA is the federal consistency process. Once a 

state coastal management plan is approved by the 

US Secretary of Commerce, relevant federal actions 

(in most cases) must be consistent with tenets of 

the state’s plan. The NMSA established a process 

for creating defined areas of management, making 

it the more spatially-focused of the two acts. 

After years of allowing foreign fishing fleets 

to harvest living marine resources quite close 

to US shorelines, Congress passed the Fishery 

Conservation and Management Act in 1976. Now 

known commonly as the Magnuson-Stevens Act 

(MSA), this law established a 200-mile fishery 

conservation zone, effective March 1, 1977, as well 

as regional fishery management councils (FMCs) 

comprised of federal and state officials. The current 

iteration of the MSA provides for management 

of fish and other species throughout their ranges 

in the EEZ (via National Standard 3 and its 

implementing regulations) under plans developed 

by the FMCs, and reviewed and approved by the 

Secretary of Commerce. 

In 1983, US President Ronald Reagan issued his 

Statement on US Ocean Policy. Though the United 

States was not (and still is not) a signatory to 

UNCLOS, Reagan affirmed that the United States:

• Is prepared to accept and act in accordance 

with the balance of interests relating to 

traditional uses of the oceans, such as 

navigation and overflight; 

• Will exercise and assert its navigation and 

overflight rights and freedoms on a worldwide 

basis in a manner that is consistent with the 

balance of interests reflected in the [UNCLOS] 

convention. The United States will not, however, 

acquiesce in unilateral acts of other states 

designed to restrict the rights and freedoms of 

the international community in navigation and 

overflight and other related high seas uses; and

• Proclaims an Exclusive Economic Zone, in which 

the United States will exercise sovereign rights 

in living and nonliving resources within 200 

nautical miles of its coast.

The Congress recognized the promise of and 

threats to the oceans when it passed the Oceans 

Act of 2000, which established the US Commission 

on Ocean Policy (USCOP) under President 

George W. Bush to develop recommendations 

for a coordinated and comprehensive national 

ocean policy. The USCOP developed An Ocean 

Blueprint for the 21st Century that contains 212 

recommendations addressing all aspects of ocean 

and coastal policy. In response to the Commission’s 

recommendations, President Bush issued an 

executive order that established the Committee on 

Ocean Policy as part of the White House Council 

on Environmental Quality (CEQ) and released 

the US Ocean Action Plan. The USCOP provided 

a preliminary assessment of the Ocean Action 

Plan, calling it “a promising first step toward the 

implementation of a comprehensive national 

ocean policy.” 

In 2006, President George W. Bush used 

the Antiquities Act (1906) to designate the 

Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument 

(MNM) in Hawai`i, which is the first time the 

Antiquities Act was used to manage large areas 

of ocean waters. This action set the precedent for 

using the Antiquities Act as an ocean policy tool. 

There are now four MNMs in the Pacific Islands 

Fagatogo, 2018. © AS HPO

Fagatogo with naval station coal dock, 1900. © AS HPO
6 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Ocean Planning in American Samoa

(Papahānaumokuākea, Pacific Remote Islands, 

Mariana Trench, and Rose Atoll, the last of which is 

in American Samoa), all established by Presidential 

Proclamations between 2006 and 2009 and jointly 

managed by the US Department of Interior Fish 

and Wildlife Service (DOI FWS) and the National 

Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration 

(NOAA). The boundary of Rose Atoll MNM is 50 nm 

from the mean low water line. 

In July 2010, President Barack Obama signed 

Executive Order (EO) 13547 that established a 

National Policy for the Stewardship of the Ocean, 

Coasts, and Great Lakes and the National Ocean 

Council (NOC). A preface to this policy came from 

the Recommendations of the Interagency Ocean 

Policy Task Force (Recommendations; July 19, 

2010), which addressed a lack of ocean planning 

coordination both within the federal government 

and among federal, state, and local bodies, 

and called the lack of coordination inefficient, 

ineffective, and likely to result in conflict and delay. 

The Recommendations addressed these issues by 

establishing a regionally-based planning process 

with the creation of regional planning bodies 

(RPBs) that bring together relevant agencies and 

organizations, and ensuring stakeholders, including 

the public, have a voice in decisions that impact 

oceans. More detail about regional ocean planning 

is provided in the next section.

On June 19, 2018, President Trump signed 

Executive Order 13840 Regarding the Ocean 

Policy to Advance the Economic, Security, and 

Environmental Interests of the United States

that revoked EO 13547. This action eliminated the 

federally-led ocean planning mandate and the RPBs; 

it established a policy focused on public access to 

marine data and information and requires federal 

agencies to coordinate activities regarding oceanrelated matters and facilitate the coordination and 

collaboration of ocean-related matters with other 

governments and ocean stakeholders.

Background on Regional Ocean Planning

The Interagency Ocean Task Force was established 

on June 12, 2009, and was comprised of 24 seniorlevel officials from executive departments, agencies, 

and offices across the Federal government and 

led by the Chair of the CEQ. The mission of the 

Task Force was to examine ways to maintain or 

enhance healthy, resilient, and sustainable ocean, 

coasts, and Great Lakes resources for the benefit 

of present and future generations. Executive Order 

13547 (2010), described in the preceding section, 

adopted the Recommendations put forth by the 

Interagency Ocean Policy Task Force in 2010 and 

established the National Ocean Council (NOC). In 

2012, the NOC released the National Ocean Policy 

Implementation Plan, which, among other things, 

described specific actions Federal agencies will take 

to address key ocean challenges and gave states 

and communities greater input in Federal decisions 

(links to additional references are in Appendix 2). 

The Recommendations of the Task Force called for 

the development of regional coastal and marine 

spatial plans, or ocean plans. To bolster support of 

ocean planning, the federal government infused 

resources and administrative support for existing 

regional ocean partnerships (ROP) and supported 

the creation of new ROPs. Several ROPs such as 

the Mid Atlantic Regional Council on the Ocean 

(MARCO), the Hawai`i Sub-Regional Ocean 

Partnership, and the Northeast Regional Ocean 

Council (NROC) are efforting most aspects of the 

Recommendations. The federal government was 

also mandated to create nine regional planning 

bodies (RPBs) throughout the United States 

(Figure 5). These RPBs were regional federal-statelocal-private partnerships designed specifically to 

address coastal and marine spatial planning, which 

was part of the Recommendations.
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 7

Ocean Planning in the US Pacific Islands

The Pacific Islands Regional Planning Body (PI RPB) 

was the main driver for the development of this 

plan. The PI RPB was created to develop a coastal 

and marine spatial plan for the Pacific Islands 

Region, initiating ocean planning in American 

Samoa, Guam, CNMI, the Pacific Remote Islands 

Area, and Hawai`i. The PI RPB consisted of 17 

members: 8 federal agency representatives, 8 nonfederal members nominated by their respective 

governors (Appendix 3), and the Western Pacific 

Fishery Management Council (WPFMC). Additional 

information about the PI RPB can be found in 

Appendix 2. The PI RPB was formalized in 2013 with 

the signing of its charter and was retired in June 

2018 with the signing of the 2018 Executive Order.

Given the expanse of the Pacific Islands Region, 

the members of the PI RPB agreed that a larger 

Pacific plan would be built upon four locally-driven 

jurisdictional ocean sub-plans and the Pacific 

Remote Island Area sub-plan. American Samoa PI 

RPB members requested, and the PI RPB agreed, 

that American Samoa be the first jurisdiction 

to begin the planning process. The PI RPB 

developed its approach for ocean planning in the 

US Pacific Islands with the intent of progressing its 

efforts in each sub-region after securing private, 

federal, and local funding for the effort.

American Samoa Ocean Planning

This document is the first and only regional plan 

produced by the PI RPB before it was disbanded 

in 2018. It is a plan developed specifically for the 

territory of American Samoa – a locally-driven plan 

written by the American Samoa Ocean Planning 

Team (ASOPT; Figure 7). 

Member agencies of the ASOPT are:

American Samoa Government Agencies

Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources 

(DMWR), Department of Port Administration (Port), 

Department of Commerce Coastal Management 

Program (ASDOC CMP), Department of Commerce 

Planning Division, Office of Samoan Affairs (OSA), 

AS Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA); 

US Federal Agencies

United States Coast Guard (USCG), National 

Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), 

US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), US National 

Figure 5. Footprint of the nine RPBs.

Figure 6. The PI RPB teams that supported the PI RPB's

Pacific-wide planning effort. 
8 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Ocean Planning in American Samoa

Park Service (NPS), Department of Defense 

(US Marine Corps); and the

Non-Federal Partner

Western Pacific Fishery Management Council 

(WPFMC). 

The American Samoa Ocean Plan (Plan) provides 

guidance for agencies, individuals, or other entities 

proposing an activity or action related to ocean use 

in the waters of American Samoa. The information 

in this document is intended to encourage 

compatible uses, reduce use conflicts, and balance 

sustainable ocean use with marine conservation, as 

well as identify research needs. Herein readers will 

find a comprehensive reference of existing spatial 

data regarding ocean use, insights into stakeholder 

perspectives regarding preferred ocean uses, and 

potential use/user conflicts. 

This document is not a stand-alone plan to 

manage the marine and coastal ecosystems of 

American Samoa. Rather, it is better understood 

as a consensus-based blueprint for harnessing 

and integrating the regulatory, enforcement, and 

other capacities of the various local and federal 

agencies charged with guiding marine development, 

conservation, preservation, utilization, and maritime 

shipping in the Territory. As with every printed 

document in the digital age, this is a snapshot of a 

current place in time. As Dwight Eisenhower said, “A 

plan is nothing. Planning is everything.” Therefore, 

the planning team intends to revise and amend this 

plan regularly, and recommends that in addition to 

the Plan, readers consult the Pacific Islands Regional 

Marine Mapper and local agencies for real-time data 

and policies.

The ASOPT began its work in January 2016. The 

team held several meetings over the past two years 

and several listening sessions (Figure 8). During 

these meetings, the ASOPT concurrently followed 

three tracks: 1) developing its process of scoping, 

drafting, and review of the Plan, 2) determining how 

and when to engage stakeholders and who those 

stakeholders are, and 3) developing content for the 

plan, including drafting the vision statement, goals, 

objectives, actions, and tasks. 

Leadership was provided to the ASOPT by the PI 

RPB members. These PI RPB members, along with 

several ASOPT members, also ensured that the 

Governor, Fono (Legislature), and Office of Samoan 

Affairs (OSA) were kept updated on the Plan’s 

development. 

At the first meeting in 2016, the ASOPT members 

developed a vision statement and identified 

stakeholders with whom to engage during plan 

Figure 7. Federal and ASG agencies and the WPFMC 

comprised the ASOPT.

AS DPA

US NOAA

(NMFS, OCM, 

Sanctuaries)

USDOI

(FWS, NPS)

US DHS

(USCG)

US DOD

(USMC)

ASOPT

ASDOC

(Planning, 

CMP, GIS)

ASEPA

AS OSA

AS 

DMWR

WPFMC
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 9

Figure 8. Major events in the American Samoa ocean planning process. 

JANUARY

ASOPT surveys stakeholders about goals.

FEBRUARY

ASOPT refined goals and drafted 

objectives, PI RPB provided feedback 

on goals and objectives.

AUGUST

ASOPT refined objectives 

and developed actions.

SEPTEMBER

ASOPT held listening sessions with 

stakeholder groups and communities to 

get feedback on goals and objectives, 

as well as general uses on maps.

SEPTEMBER

Moore Foundation provides 

first non-federal funding 

towards ocean planning 

efforts in the Pacific Islands, 

allowing the effort to start in 

American Samoa.

JULY

President Obama 

issues EO 13547 

Stewardship of the 

Ocean, Our Coasts, 

and the Great Lakes.

MARCH

Governor Moliga 

nominates AS DMWR 

and AS Port Admin. 

to serve on PI RPB

JANUARY

American Samoa Ocean 

Planning Team kicks off its 

planning effort and drafts 

its vision statement.

MARCH

ASOPT refines vision 

statement.

ASOPT surveys stakeholders 

about vision statement.

ASOPT hosts first public 

listening session to tell 

public about effort and seek 

feedback on vision.

PI RPB provided feedback 

on vision.

Vision finalized and approved.

OCTOBER

ASOPT drafts goals.

JANUARY

Ocean plan drafted for 

ASOPT review.

FEBRUARY

PI RPB reviewed draft ocean plan.

MARCH

ASOPT incorporated edits and 

listening session feedback in 

a public meeting.

MAY

ASOPT further refined the 

ocean plan.

JUNE

ASOPT held listening sessions 

with pulenu’u, stakeholder groups, 

and communities.

DECEMBER

Published final Plan.

2011 2013 2015 2016 2017 2018
10 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Ocean Planning in American Samoa

development. ASOPT members sought feedback 

on the vision statement during a listening session 

held during the second ASOPT meeting, and 

incorporated the feedback received into the final 

vision statement.

During the next several ASOPT meetings, which 

were held publicly, the ASOPT developed goals 

and objectives for the draft Plan. After the goals 

and objectives were refined, the ASOPT held 

another series of listening sessions with targeted 

stakeholder groups and communities to seek 

feedback. In early 2018, the ASOPT incorporated 

the received input into further refinement of the 

goals and objectives, as well as actions and tasks 

associated with the objectives. This American 

Samoa Ocean Plan was developed by this planning 

team that wholeheartedly embraced the feedback 

received and incorporated it as appropriate 

throughout all aspects of the plan. 

Key Partners in the Planning Process

Pacific Islands ocean planning has benefited greatly 

from the process and spirit of collaboration. The PI 

RPB recognized the important role that partnerships 

play in leveraging resources, conducting stakeholder 

engagement, and enhancing technical capacity. Key 

partners included Udall Foundation’s US Institute 

for Conflict Resolution, Gordon and Betty Moore 

Foundation, the PI RPB’s Data Team, and the Naval 

Postgraduate School. 

Of note, the Naval Postgraduate School, in close 

collaboration with federal agency partners, the Data 

Team, and the ASDOC GIS program, developed and 

launched the Pacific Islands Prototype Data Portal 

(Data Portal; Figure 9, Figure 10). This Prototype 

Data Portal is being transitioned to a permanent 

Pacific Islands Regional Marine Planner (PIRMP).

The publicly available PIRMP will build on the 

prototype data products and layers and be hosted 

by MarineCadastre.gov. MarineCadastre.gov is a 

cooperative effort by the Bureau of Ocean Energy 

Management (BOEM) and the National Oceanic and 

Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to provide 

authoritative ocean data, tools, and support to the 

offshore renewable energy and marine planning 

communities. This effort is integrating data, Figure 9. The Naval Postgraduate School Prototype Data Portal snapshot of data for 

American Samoa
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 11

Figure 10. Interactive layers snapshot from the Data Portal
12 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Ocean Planning in American Samoa

metadata, and services from marine planning into 

the Northeast Ocean Data Portal, Mid-Atlantic 

Ocean Data Portal, and the West Coast Ocean Data 

Portal. In American Samoa, as in other regions, 

the PI Marine Planner is intended to be an online, 

publicly available ArcGIS Online viewer that 

consolidates available data and enables regional 

ocean planners and ocean users to visualize 

and analyze ocean resources and human use 

information. 

The prototype already includes a wide range of 

human use, environmental, socioeconomic, and 

regulatory data that provides baseline information, 

as well as building blocks for more transparent, 

coordinated, and informed ocean management, 

information sharing, and stakeholder engagement. 

Input from stakeholders has been solicited 

throughout the process to inform development, 

utility, and design of the PIRMP. 

Stakeholders in the Planning Process

Stakeholder and public engagement is a 

cornerstone of American Samoa’s ocean planning 

process. In American Samoa, everyone is a 

stakeholder in ocean uses and resources. 

Successful ocean use planning depends upon 

stakeholder engagement. The ASOPT successfully 

engaged stakeholders during development of this 

ocean use plan and is committed to continued 

engagement during future implementation of 

this plan. Information regarding continued ocean 

planning can be found by contacting the ASDOC.

Opportunities for engagement included:

• Formal PI RPB and ASOPT meetings, all of 

which were open to the public and encouraged 

public comments, and 

• Stakeholder outreach events hosted by the 

PI RPB and ASOPT. These events included 

the stakeholder assessment engagement, 

stakeholder and community listening sessions, 

public surveys, and ad hoc engagement (e.g. 

booth at Coasts Week).

The formal public PI RPB and ASOPT meetings 

provided an opportunity for members to discuss, 

deliberate, and make decisions transparently while 

also interacting with and collecting input from the 

public. Surveys, meetings, the PI RPB’s website and 

Facebook site, and listening sessions enabled the 

ASOPT to share updates with a wider audience 

Figure 11. Ta’u listening session participants in October 2017.

Statement of Purpose: The purpose 

of the plan is to provide American 

Samoa with systematic decision-making 

tools for coastal and marine areas that 

promotes balanced and sustainable 

multiple uses, improves cross-agency, 

cross-sectoral and cross-governance 

level communication and collaboration, 

enhances coastal and ocean health, 

and pro-actively plans for, mitigates, 

and adapts to sea level rise and other 

issues associated with climate change. 

The plan encourages active stakeholder 

engagement in the development of 

current and future uses of the ocean 

and coastal areas.
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 13

and solicit feedback from stakeholders. The PI 

RPB website contained information and meeting 

materials, and also provided information about 

opportunities for public comment throughout the 

process. This information has been transferred to 

ASDOC’s website.

The ASOPT began development of a stakeholder 

engagement strategy at its 2016 kick-off meeting. 

The Planning Team adopted a three-pronged 

approach of engagement for gathering input from 

ASG partners, ocean user groups, and village 

communities (Figure 11, Figure 12, Figure 13). 

ASG partners were identified by the ASG ASOPT 

members. All ASOPT members identified the 

initial list of ocean user groups. This list was then 

further refined using an online survey of this initial 

group. Ocean user groups included commercial 

fishermen, port and commercial users, non-extractive 

recreational users, extractive non-commercial users 

(recreational fishers), and users linked closely to 

village uses of the ocean resources and spaces. 

Village communities were contacted through ASG 

partner channels, as well as through the Office of 

Samoan Affairs.

OCEAN USER GROUPS REPRESENTED 

IN TARGETED LISTENING SESSIONS

Ports & Shipping

Marine tourism

Marine trades

Commercial fishing

Recreational fishing

Marine navigation

Ocean recreation

Figure 14. Leone listening session in September 2017.

Figure 12. Aua listening session participants in September 2017.

Figure 13. Leone listening session participants in June 2018.
14 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Ocean Planning in American Samoa

Figure 15. Timeline of stakeholder engagement. 

Methods of engaging these three stakeholders, 

included online surveys, public ASOPT meetings, 

public listening sessions and focused user group or 

village listening sessions (Figure 14). All meetings were 

publicly noticed on the PI RPB Facebook and websites, 

as well as emails sent to the stakeholder distribution 

list (Figure 15; Participant list is in Appendix 4).

Plan development included a dedicated effort to 

ensure that stakeholders were authentically engaged. 

In addition to the on-the-ground work conducted 

by the ASOPT, the Udall Foundation’s US Institute 

for Environmental Conflict Resolution contracted 

a stakeholder assessment, which resulted in seven 

recommendations for how and when to connect with 

local ocean users and governance structures. The 

stakeholder assessment recommendations (Appendix 

5 and Appendix 6) were then folded into the ASOPT’s 

existing strategy to further refine how the ASOPT 

engaged stakeholders.

Ocean Planning Framework

VISION

The vision articulates the ASOPT’s desired future state 

for the coastal and ocean waters of American Samoa:

“The people of American Samoa, with their healthy 

ocean, coasts, and communities, enjoy a thriving and 

secure environment, economy, and Fa’a Samoa.”

GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS

The primary geographic focus for the American Samoa 

Ocean Plan is the ocean waters of the jurisdiction 

(Figure 16). Specifically, the geographic focus includes 

Territorial and Federal waters from the shoreline 

seaward to the boundary of the Exclusive Economic 

Zone (EEZ), which is up to 200 nautical miles (nm) or 

limited by the boundary with:

JANUARY

• ASOPT public meeting

• ASOPT developed list of 

stakeholder groups

FEBRUARY

• Online stakeholder surveys 

regarding draft vision statement

MARCH

• ASOPT hosts first public listening 

session to tell public about the 

effort and seek feedback on vision

• Radio interview

• PI RPB public meeting

• ASOPT public meeting

OCTOBER

• ASOPT public meeting

JANUARY

• Online stakeholder surveys 

regarding goals

FEBRUARY

• ASOPT public meeting

MAY

• Stakeholders engaged via 

the stakeholder assessment, 

including OSA, matai, and 

pulenu’u

SEPTEMBER

• ASOPT hosted listening 

sessions with stakeholder 

groups and communities to 

get feedback on goals and 

objectives, as well as general 

uses on maps. ASOPT also 

hosted a booth at Coasts 

Week.

MARCH and MAY

• ASOPT public meetings

JUNE/JULY

• ASOPT held listening sessions 

with stakeholder groups and 

communities to get feedback 

on the draft plan

DECEMBER

• ASOPT presented final plan 

to stakeholder groups and 

communities

2016

2017

2018
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 15

Figure 16. Geographical focus of the Plan. © NOAA OCM

Va’ai Mamao (Vision): Ia mafai ona 

fa’aaogaina e tagatanu’u o Amerika 

Samoa le sosia o lona si’osi’omaga, 

gataifale ma ogasami ma le faatupula’ia 

o le tamaoaiga ma lau-fanua mama ma 

puipuia i le Aganu;u Fa’a-Samoa

• Tokelau to the north

• Niue and the Kingdom of Tonga to the south

• Cook Islands to the east

• Samoa and the Kingdom of Tonga to the west

The geographic focus is comprised of two 

sections, which are described throughout the plan 

as: 1) Coastal, which extends from the shoreline 

to 3 nm, or the extent of Territorial waters, and 

2) Ocean, which extends from 3 nm out to the 

outer extent of the EEZ, or up to 200 nm. The 

definition of coastal in AS §26.0206 is the “entire 
16 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Ocean Planning in American Samoa

Figure 17. Map of American Samoa EEZ. © NOAA OCM

island of Tutuila, the Manu’a Islands, Aunu’u Island, 

Rose Island, and Swains Island...and all coastal 

waters and submerged lands for a distance of 

three (3) nautical miles seaward in all directions.” 

The ASOPT intentionally deviates from the AS 

§26.0206 definition of coastal to avoid overlap and 

redundancy with the existing inland planning efforts 

in American Samoa (such as the PNRS and other 

land use plans).

While the ASOPT operates within this geographic 

focus, it recognizes the importance of all coastal 

areas. The ASOPT will draw connections to and 

coordinate closely with entities responsible for 

the inland coastal management, permitting, 
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 17

Guiding Principles:

#1: Increase coordination and 

communication within the 

community, among stakeholders, 

and across all levels of government.

#2: Vibrant and integrated Fa’a 

Samoa level communication and 

collaboration, enhances coastal 

and ocean health, and pro-actively 

plans for, mitigates, and adapts 

to sea level rise and other issues 

associated with climate change. 

The plan encourages active 

stakeholder engagement in the 

development of current and future 

uses of the ocean and coastal areas.

and planning, particularly when ocean uses and 

natural resources have an interrelationship with 

coastal communities, ports, or other shoreside 

infrastructure. The geographic focus is an 

administrative description for planning purposes 

only, and is not intended to create or represent fixed 

boundaries or affect existing legal authorities.

In addition to the inland and seaward connections, 

this plan also recognizes the overlapping permitting 

and planning jurisdictions within the study area, for 

example, PNRS (from the shoreline to 3 nm), federal 

agencies (3 nm to EEZ extent), and territorial plans 

(shoreline to 12 nm).

Within this described geographic focus, American 

Samoa consists of roughly 76 square miles of land 

area over a group of five volcanic islands and two 

atolls. The five volcanic islands include Tutuila, 

Aunu’u, Ofu, Olesega, and Ta’u. Ofu, Olesega, and 

Ta’u are collectively referred to as the Manu’a 

Islands. Additionally, there are two atolls: Swains 

Island and Rose Atoll (Figure 17). The island areas 

are traditionally called districts (East District, 

West District, and Manu’a District) and there are 

several villages within each district. For more 

information about the islands’ sizes, village names, 

and demographics, please refer to the Territory 

of American Samoa Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan 

(Chapter II: Planning Area Profile).

GUIDING PRINCIPLES

The ASOPT established 2 guiding principles, 

which it defines as “basic or essential qualities 

or elements determining the intrinsic nature or 

characteristic behavior of regional ocean planning.” 

These principles describe how the ASOPT intends 

to operate. 

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

The goals are high-level statements of outcomes 

the ASOPT hopes to achieve with its Ocean 

Plan. It considers the two goals to be of equal 

importance and deeply interconnected. However, 

the ASOPT recognized that without healthy and 

coastal ecosystems, sustainable ocean uses are 

unachievable. The objectives under each goal 

describe specific outcomes and observable changes 

that contribute to achieving American Samoa’s 

ocean planning goals. 

The first goal, Healthy Ocean and Coastal 

Ecosystems, is to promote ocean ecosystem health, 

functionality, and integrity through spatial data 

acquisition for habitats and species to enable 

more effective decision making while reducing 

environmental impacts, reduction in pollution and 
18 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Ocean Planning in American Samoa

marine debris, and climate change adaptation and 

resilience. 

The second goal, Sustainable Ocean and Coastal 

Uses, is to plan and provide for existing and 

emerging ocean uses in a sustainable manner that 

minimizes conflicts, supports economic growth, and 

provides for food security.

There are several objectives identified for both 

goals, all with associated actions and tasks. A 

lead agency and associated partners are listed for 

all actions. Partners were suggested by ASOPT 

members in some cases, not self-selecting and 

volunteering. Partners include ASG agencies, federal 

agencies, the WPFMC, and various organizations 

(e.g. American Samoa Community College (ASCC), 

AS Climate Change Task Force, AS GIS Users Group, 

and more; see Appendix 7 for a list of partners).

APPROACH TO THE AMERICAN SAMOA 

OCEAN PLAN

The National Ocean Council’s Marine Planning 

Handbook developed in response to EO 13547 

served as reference for planning teams around 

the country. The RPBs and local planning teams 

were given flexibility to determine how to 

approach planning. 

At its in-person meeting in February 2016 in Pago 

Pago, the ASOPT deliberated on and approved an 

Figure 18. Overview of the ocean planning process. Text in green indicates stakeholder engagement points.

January 2016 - 

July 2017

 Drafted Vision 

 Vision Listening Session 

 Drafted Goals 

 Surveys on Goals 

 Drafted Objectives 

 Stakeholder Assessment 

 Regional Agency Input 

July 2017 - June 2018

 Revised Vision 

 Revised Goals 

 Revised Objectives 

 Drafted Actions 

 Revised Actions 

 Listening Sessions

 Regional Agency Input

 Data Portal Development

June/July 2018

 Packaged and 

Circulated Draft

 Regional Agency Input

 Listening Sessions

 Data Portal 

Development

September 2018

 Revised Draft

 Additional 

ASG Review

 Regional 

Agency Input

December 2018

 Final Document 

Printed and Approved

Planning

+

Stakeholder

Input

1. Scope 

Content

2. Prepared

Draft

3. Review

Draft

4. Revise

Draft

5. Adopt 

Final
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 19

interactive planning process (Figure 18). 

The ASOPT developed elements of the plan, 

reviewed and revised the element (vision, goals, 

objectives), sought stakeholder and PI RPB 

feedback, incorporated feedback, then finalized it. 

The ASOPT then developed a complete draft for 

stakeholder and PI RPB review. The final plan is a 

product of incorporated review and comments 

(see Appendix 12 for input incorporation).

MOVING AHEAD UNDER EXISTING AUTHORITIES

Ocean planning aims to achieve effective 

coordination and collaboration among the 

numerous governmental agencies with existing 

management authorities over ocean and coastal 

resources. Coordination among planning entities 

and consistent use of best available ocean data are 

key elements of this Ocean Plan. Likewise, EO 13840 

remains committed to effective management of 

the nation’s oceans and coasts. This Plan focuses 

on informing decision making under existing 

authorities, but the ASOPT itself does not have any 

regulatory authority.

This document does not create any right or benefit, 

substantive or procedural, enforceable by law or 

equity against any signatory or any of its officers, 

employees, or other representatives or any person. 

The statutes and regulations referenced herein 

contain legally binding requirements, and this 

document does not substitute for those statutes 

and regulations, nor is this document itself a 

regulation. In the event of a conflict between this 

document and requirements under statute or 

regulation, the latter controls. All commitments 

made by agencies herein are subject to the 

availability of appropriated funds and agency 

budget priorities. Nothing in this document in 

and of itself obligates the agencies to expend 

appropriations or to enter into any contract, 

assistance agreement, interagency agreement, or 

incur other financial obligations. This document 

does not create any exemption from policies 

governing competition for assistance agreements. 

Any transaction involving reimbursement or 

contribution of funds between the parties to this 

document will be handled in accordance with 

applicable laws, regulations, and procedures under 

separate written agreements. Appendix 8 provides 

a brief description of Federal authorities directly 

relevant to the Plan, and a description of key 

Territorial and WPFMC authorities and interests. 

For a more complete listing of authorities that 

address ocean activities and interests, please refer 

to the NOC’s publication, Legal Authorities Relating 

to the Implementation of Coastal and Marine 

Spatial Planning.

See page 61 for more information about 

Implementation.

PI RPB members, ecoLOGIC, Udall Foundation, AS DPA, and AS DOC CMP participated in a fautasi paddle around 

Pago Pago Harbor arranged by AS DOC CMP Director Sandra Lutu.
20 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Ocean Planning in American Samoa
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 21

Autu 1: Sami Ma Le Gataifale Matagofie Ma Le Saogalemu

Goal 1: Healthy Ocean and Coastal Ecosystems

Three objectives and associated actions were 

developed for addressing Goal 1: Healthy Ocean and 

Coastal Ecosystems. While this plan acknowledges 

that the coastal ecosystems include from the ridge 

to the reef, including watersheds, please note that 

for the purposes of this ocean planning effort, the 

actions and tasks, unless specifically noted, apply 

from the shore seaward to the boundary of the US 

EEZ, or up to 200 nm.

Objective 1: Spatially Identify Species’ 

Habitats to Protect, Maintain And/Or 

Restore Healthy Ocean and Coastal 

Ecosystems and Natural Beauty.

This objective is intended to deepen the 

understanding of key areas of the ocean ecosystem 

in order to inform decision making under existing 

authorities. Under this action, the ASOPT will 

continue to develop enhanced data products for 

individual marine species, marine life synthesis 

products, and human use data and information 

synthesis products to support science-based 

decision making. Advanced synthesis of marine 

life and habitat data can help identify general or 

specific areas that are characterized by one or more 

components of ecological richness, such as high 

biodiversity, abundance, and productivity.

The data products resulting from accomplishing 

the actions below can inform a range of decisions 

related to possible uses, including PNRS decisions, 

NEPA analyses, evaluation of baseline information 

for offshore development projects, development 

of research agendas, and other agency-specific 

processes and practices. 

Action 1. Spatially identify ecologically rich areas, 

including essential fish habitat (EFH) and critical 

habitat, and increase the use of the information in 

agency decision making processes.

The WPFMC and NOAA have EFH and critical 

habitat data layers, as well as habitat maps. Other 

agencies with habitat maps include National Park 

Service, USFWS, and AS DMWR. Mapping efforts, 

including via Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) 

surveys, happen periodically, with much of the data 

Sini 1: Saili i’a, figota ma o latou 

nofoaga e tatau ona puipuia. 

Fa’atumauina le tulaga lelei o 

matafaga, gataifale ma ogasami.

Nerelle Que scuba dives at a large coral head 

in the village of Amalau. © Ian Moffitt

Looking below to the village of A`ua from the top of Mt. Alava.

© Sarah Pautzke 
22 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Goal 1: Healthy Ocean and Coastal Ecosystems

being housed by NOAA. Combining these data 

layers into the PIRMP will promote the use of the 

data in decision-making.

The ASOPT understands the need to protect 

certain data, such as locations of listed species or 

species of concern, to avoid exploitation of these 

vulnerable species.

Agency Lead: AS DMWR

Partners: NOAA OCM, NPS, USFWS, ASDOC GIS, 

OSA, AS GIS Users Group, NOAA PIFSC, WPFMC, 

NOAA PIRO

1. Within the spatial extent of the identified habitat, 

coordinate with AS DMWR and AS OSA to work 

with agencies and village leaders to identify 

desired marine life data layers (footprints 

of mangroves, seagrass, coral reefs, critical 

habitat, EFH, ports, harbors, Ava locations) and 

important infrastructure to incorporate into the 

PIRMP and mapping interface.

2. Analyze habitats to identify nurseries for 

important pelagic species including yellowfin 

tuna, as well as the habitat needed for different 

life stages from the shore to the open ocean, 

including the banks.

3. Work within ASG agencies to develop and 

refine a draft framework for identification 

of ecologically rich areas (ERAs) (example: 

Appendix 9).

4. Standardize the definition of an ERA.

5. Import existing data layers into the PIRMP, 

increase the use of the data, and identify gaps 

between what exists and desired data layers.

6. Provide a contrast of areas with multiple layers 

of information and missing information. 

7. Post information and maps developed in Tasks 

above to the PIRMP and ASDOC websites.

Action 2. Ensure adequate data are in place to 

inform public use and permittee proposed uses.

Not all data exist within the confines of agencies. 

This data effort will include robust engagement of 

fishermen, conservation organizations, maritime 

industry, recreational users, and other stakeholders, 

scientists and other technical experts, Traditional 

Knowledge holders, and the public to share and 

collaborate data for informed and wise public and 

commercial use.

The stakeholder assessment results described in 

the stakeholder section above and in the Appendix 

5 provide further insights and recommendations 

related to engaging audiences. When information 

is exchanged and new data are developed, the 

GIS Users Group can create data layers that would 

then be incorporated in the ASDOC portal and the 

PIRMP. ASEPA can offer a support and technical 

role to assist with these initiatives.

Agency Lead: GIS Users Group

Partners: AS DMWR, ASDOC CMP, ASEPA, 

NOAA OCM

1. Share the ecologically rich areas data from 

Action 1 above with stakeholders, decision 

makers, and villages. Conduct workshops 

and outreach on using the PIRMP to ensure 

these layers are understood, accepted and can 

be used.

2. Provide training on how to overlap the future 

uses data with the ERAs. 

3. Based on information exchanges, select two 

pilot areas of heavy public use or permit 

interest to further develop additional needed 

ecological data.

4. Use the above information to promote agency 

and village education, outreach, and existing 

An alia vessel fishing off the Manu`a Islands. 

© Sarah Pautzke
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 23

DMWR, CZM, and ASEPA awareness initiatives 

related to ecological resources.

5. Refer to these data layers during proposal 

reviews, or, if you are a permittee, refer to these 

layers to determine compatibility of a project. 

Action 3. Identify species with management 

and/or cultural designations, and those with 

economic value. 

Several species are managed in American Samoa, 

many of which have economic value and/or cultural 

value. The WPFMC manages the American Samoa 

bottomfish species, which generally include 

snappers, emperors, and groupers, all of which 

have economic value. Coral reef fish are managed 

by AS DMWR and the WPFMC and include 

surgeonfishes, nearshore groupers, parrotfishes, 

atule, and soldierfishes. Important invertebrates 

include octopus, lobsters, sea cucumbers, giant 

clams, and palolo. All of these have cultural value 

with various degrees of importance. Pelagic species 

are managed by the WPFMC with regulations for 

harvest and are of economic importance. Monument 

waters include cultural take provisions. The 

following actions assess the extent of the spatial 

data associated with the managed species and 

species with cultural designations and seek to make 

this data publicly available. 

Agency Lead: AS DMWR

Partners: NOAA PIRO, NOAA OCM, OSA, USFWS, 

AS Historic Preservation Office (AS HPO), ASDOC 

GIS, NOAA PIFSC, ASDOC CMP

1. Map species of concern distributions, species 

with designations distributions, and habitat 

protections (e.g. EFH) from laws or lists. Species 

with designations and habitat protections can 

include, but are not limited to, the International 

Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red 

List, by the ESA as threatened or endangered, 

by the US Marine Mammal Protection Act, the US 

Migratory Bird Treaty Act, Western and Central 

Pacific Fisheries Commission, and the MSA, as 

well as territorial designations and protections.

2. Coordinate with AS OSA to work with village 

leaders to map species, habitats, or areas with 

cultural value and/or protected status within 

villages or by village leaders.

3. Review and map regulatory mechanisms related 

to species with economic value.

4. Import data layers into the PIRMP, increase the 

use of the data, and identify gaps between what 

exists and desired data layers.

Action 4. Identify and maintain updated data 

related to administrative and marine jurisdictional 

data for protected areas or management areas 

(areas from policies and statues or culturallyidentified (e.g. prohibited areas) that do not 

necessarily follow habitat areas).

There are several habitat designations for various 

species and their habitats. These include essential 

fish habitats (EFH) and habitat areas of particular 

concern identified under the US MSA, and critical 

habitat identified under the US Endangered Species 

Act (ESA). Areas also include those identified under 

AS Title 24 Chapters 5, 9, or 10, and AS Title 26 

Chapter 2. These identified areas can conflict with 

uses, such as development, but may be compatible 

with other uses, such as no-take recreational uses, 

low impact development, or a spatial separation 

within the water column (e.g. a ship may traverse 

over EFH without impacting the habitat). 

Agency Lead: NOAA PIRO

Agency Partners: ASEPA, AS DMWR, ASDOC GIS, 

ASDOC CMP, ASDOC Planning, AS DPS (Marine 

Patrol Division), NOAA OLE, USFWS, NPS, AS 

Department of Parks and Recreation, ASDOC 

PNRS, USCG 

Reef fish for sale at a local market. 

© Christopher Hawkins
24 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Goal 1: Healthy Ocean and Coastal Ecosystems

1. Identify and map the footprint of administrative 

and marine jurisdictional management areas 

from laws, policies, or village practices (e.g., 

Endangered Species Act, Marine Mammal 

Protection Act, MSA, migratory seabirds, 

territorial laws).

2. Identify and digitize areas of management 

conflicts, management gaps, and enforcement/ 

security vulnerabilities. 

3. Upload the data into the PIRMP; ensure new 

data and information are incorporated to keep 

management current and relevant; and provide 

access to regulators, permittees, the public, 

and industry in exchange for participation in an 

annual update session.

4. Use the above information to promote agency 

and village education, outreach, and awareness 

initiatives related to management actions and 

special protections.

Objective 2: Support Coordination of 

Efforts to Prevent or Reduce Coastal 

and Marine Sources of Pollution 

Affecting Our Oceans

Marine debris and pollution are threats to the 

health of coastal and ocean ecosystems and human 

health. Marine debris lessens our ability to protect 

human health, aquatic life, and the environment. 

Environmental agencies in American Samoa 

recognize that the bioaccumulation of plastics in the 

marine food web by commercially sought species 

are worldwide, and of great impact to American 

Samoa’s fish-based economy and diet. Timely 

actions to address this major threat are needed, 

particularly in a time where other significant threats 

such as adverse impacts from climate change can 

exacerbate its effects, complicate recovery, and 

reduce resiliency to recover from these impacts. A 

resolution to marine debris and pollution requires 

collaboration across levels of government and with 

the public and partners.

The purpose of this Objective and related Actions 

is to build on efforts of American Samoa’s Marine 

Debris Program, NOAA’s Marine Debris Program, 

EPA’s Trash-free Waters Program, and other 

existing programs and partnerships in the region 

that are developing regionally-appropriate and 

feasible pollution reduction strategies that address 

key issues such as: debris from storms, derelict 

fishing gear, plastic food containers, microplastics, 

plastic bottles and bags, balloons, and cigarette 

butts (Figure 19). Strategies may include source 

reduction, coordinated cleanups, regionally 

applicable public outreach, education, and social 

marketing campaigns aimed at behavior change.

Jurisdictional efforts that accomplish this Objective 

are already are underway by several agencies. There 

are many coordinated efforts by ASEPA, DOC, 

American Samoa Community College Land Grant, 

AS DMWR Coral Reef Advisory Group (CRAG), and 

DOI NPS that include coastal stabilization; stream 

restoration; beach, coastal, and priority watershed 

cleanups; and outreach and awareness programs. 

The shoreline cleanup is part of ASEPA’ Keep 

AS Beautiful campaign. ASEPA issues tickets for 

littering and follows through by taking offenders to 

court. Other agencies typically involved in issuing 

marine debris violations include AS DMWR, AS DPA, 

AS Department of Public Safety, USCG, and NOAA.

Of note, the Land-Based Source of Pollution Local 

Action Strategy (LAS) brings together various local 

government department and federal agencies to 

work collaboratively on strategies and projects 

Sini 2: Sapasapaia tulaga uma 

e fa’aitiitia ai le fa’aleagaina o le 

tamaoaiga o o tatou ogasami

Litter at a secluded beach on the back side of 

Aunu`u. © Sarah Pautzke
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 25

to address land-based sources of pollution in 

the territory. 

ASEPA leads a Marine Debris Program (MDP) with 

the goals of building capacity in mitigating and 

minimizing sources of marine litter. The objectives 

of the MDP are to ensure a sustained marine 

debris program in American Samoa, conduct 

scientific research and monitoring, initiate targeted 

source reduction projects, and to regularly and 

systematically engage with the community, federal, 

regional, and local partners. 

Since its inception in 2015, the MDP has met some 

significant milestones. At the 2015 South Pacific 

Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) annual 

meeting in Apia, ASEPA presented on marine debris 

initiatives by the agency and its partners. This 

provided a platform for discussion of overlapping 

lessons and opportunities for collaboration with 

local, regional, and international partners. 

In May 2016, a Marine Debris Action Plan workshop 

was convened by ASEPA and USEPA Region 9 to 

provide a background of the known and projected 

impacts of marine litter, share knowledge of existing 

initiatives to address this issue in the Territory, 

and discuss opportunities to develop action items 

regarding implementation of potential solutions and 

management actions. This workshop strengthened 

existing collaborative efforts at the local, federal, 

and regional levels, and built partnerships to 

address the problems of marine debris in American 

Samoa. A key outcome of the action plan workshop 

was the identification of the six priority projects 

as follows:

1. Moving waste and recyclables off-island;

2. Ramping up education and outreach to improve 

environmental literacy;

3. Generating a village-based Materials Recovery 

Facility (MRF);

4. Proposing legislation to ban Styrofoam products;

5. Removal of grounded vessels; and

6. Establishment of a cleanup team for Pago 

Pago Harbor.

The 2016 Marine Debris Action Plan workshop 

reinforced the shared goals to protect and manage 

the resource in American Samoa. The MDP 

continues to support marine debris initiatives and 

fosters continued collaboration with local, federal, 

and regional partners. 

NOAA also has a Marine Debris Program that 

works with local partners to address marine debris 

through removals and prevention. A current project 

in American Samoa is a risk assessment to quantify 

microplastics in water, sediment, and bivalves, as 

well as assess the types and concentrations of 

organic contaminants in the collected samples. 

This project is being led by Arizona State University 

through a grant from the NOAA Marine Debris 

program, working with partners from ASEPA and 

AS DMWR. 

Local legislation provides structure for marine 

debris reduction. Petroleum-based plastic shopping 

bags are banned at the point of sale in American 

Samoa. The selling and distribution of these bags 

is prohibited in accordance with the 2011 Plastic 

Shopping Bag Ban (PSBB) under ASCA §25.2034, 

which is enforced by ASEPA, ASDOC, and AS DPS. 

A coordinating partner includes the South Pacific 

Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), the 

purpose of which is to “promote cooperation in 

the South Pacific Region and to provide assistance 

in order to protect and improve the environment 

and to ensure sustainable development for present 

Citizen scientists from the American Samoa 

Marine Debris Project (Lapisi I Gataifale) 

participated in National Clean-Up Day 2018 at 

Lion's Park, which is on the shoreline of the 

village of Tafuna. © Nerelle Que
26 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Goal 1: Healthy Ocean and Coastal Ecosystems

and future generations.” This partner has been 

supporting a regional ban on plastic bags.

Local legislation also provides a legal framework 

for other types of coastal pollution that affects 

oceans. AS Water Quality Standards (ASAC 

§24.0201) provides legal definitions of protected 

and prohibited usage of ocean waters, wetlands, 

embayments, and open coastal waters. All uses 

must adhere to AS WQS and waters must be 

substantially free from substances, materials 

attributable to sewage, industrial waste, visible 

floating materials, or other manmade activities 

or objects. 

ASEPA is the agency responsible for carrying 

out the mandates of the Environmental Quality 

Commission, including the Water Quality Standards 

(AS WQS). The agency develops, implements, 

and enforces environmental laws that regulate air, 

water and soil quality, pesticide use and waste 

recycling and reduction. An example of agency 

efforts includes work completed to address the 

critical environmental and health impacts caused 

by improperly-managed piggery wastes. ASEPA 

brought all piggeries into compliance with local 

environmental and health regulations by decreasing 

the number of pigs kept in illegal piggeries, 

thereby resulting in the reduction of nitrogen 

and phosphorus to waterbodies. The program 

continues to inspect and enforce against illegal pig 

management on island.

ASEPA conducts weekly Nearshore Marine Water 

Quality Monitoring for non-point source pollution, 

the results of which are available to the public 

and media the next day. The pathogen indicator 

of water quality impairments is Enterococcus in 

coastal recreation waters. ASEPA informs the public 

when coastal recreation waters do not meet AS 

Water Quality Standards (WQS) for Enterococcus

and describes potential risks associated with 

polluted waters. 

Other local agencies contribute to the larger 

picture of pollution control. ASDOC funded the 

development of the American Samoa Erosion and 

Sediment Control Field Guide booklet, which was 

designed specifically for construction contractors 

in American Samoa to help them implement best 

management practices (BMPs) for erosion and 

sediment control. These construction activities 

consisted of clearing, grading, stockpiling, and 

other earth-moving activities at all construction 

sites. Its provisions are administered and enforced 

pursuant to the ASEPA American Samoa Water 

Quality Standards (ASAC §24.0201 et seq.) and the 

American Samoa Coastal Management Program 

Administrative Rules (ASAC §26.02). To help 

contractors implement best management practices 

for erosion and sediment control (ESC), this 

field guide:

• Explains why erosion and sediment control (ESC) 

is an important part of the construction process

Figure 19. A pilot study in 2015 revealed high accumulations of shoreline debris at Nu’uuli Lagoon on 

American Samoa. © Arizona State University
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 27

• Summarizes ESC practice design, installation, 

and maintenance tips

• Outlines inspection and project closeout 

considerations

• Serves as a reference for use in the field

• Relies primarily on graphical illustrations for 

multilingual users

• Is not a substitute for more detailed practice 

design or technical specifications

Action 1. Identify spatial extent of existing 

strategies, related laws, programs, plans, 

and jurisdictions for marine debris and 

pollution reduction.

This action can include collecting information and 

data from ASEPA from citations that are issued. AS 

DMWR CRAG also has data regarding marine debris 

cleanup from 2011 and 2015. NOAA published the 

“Sensitivity of Coastal Environments and Wildlife 

to Spilled Oil – American Samoa Atlas.” Past spills 

and clean up location data can be acquired from 

Solar Inc.

Agency Lead: ASDOC GIS

Partners: ASDOC CMP, AS DPA, USCG, ASEPA, 

AS DMWR, CRAG, SPREP, NOAA Marine Debris 

Program, USFWS

1. Map the existing agencies’ jurisdictions to 

identify gaps and overlaps.

2. Map the common sources of pollution identified 

within those efforts (i.e. rivers and streams 

emptying into the harbor).

3. Map locations of past spills and clean up areas 

included within the above efforts.

4. Add layers to the PIRMP and ensure partner 

agencies can access them.

Action 2. Increase and enhance outreach for 

improved source controls and link to efforts 

currently underway.

This action includes identifying all outreach groups 

involved in pollution reduction initiatives. 

ASEPA is the lead agency in administering the 

Keep American Samoa Beautiful (KASB) Act, which 

became the new litter law of American Samoa 

on December 24, 2016, replacing outdated litter 

laws from 1972. The KASB Act aims to improve 

litter enforcement by giving citation authority to 

seven ASG agencies: ASEPA, American Samoa 

Power Authority (ASPA), AS DPS, AS Department 

of Health (DOH), AS DMWR, AS DPR, and AS 

OSA. Litter is defined under the KASB Act as “No 

Person shall place, throw, or drop litter on public, 

communal, or private real property, or in any waters 

of the Territory.” Authorized agencies have issued 

more than 100 litter citations under the KASB Act. 

ASEPA and its partnering agencies continue to 

enforce the KASB Act and provide litter education 

and outreach targeting the island community, 

businesses and schools.

Agency Lead: ASDOC CMP or DMWR

Partners: ASEPA, NOAA Marine Debris, Island Wide 

Clean Up Committee Education subgroup 

1. Share the spatial data with stakeholders, 

decision makers, and villages via existing 

outreach efforts. 

2. Provide training on how to use the PIRMP to 

overlap the ecologically rich areas (ERAs) 

identified in Goal 1 Objective 1 Action 1 with 

pollution data to educate stakeholders about 

possible impacts of debris and pollution 

on ERAs.

3. Use the PIRMP to identify areas where there are 

spatial gaps in outreach or efforts.

Trash collected from Lion's Park along the shore 

of Tafuna during the National Clean-Up Day 2018. 

© Nerelle Que
28 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Goal 1: Healthy Ocean and Coastal Ecosystems

Figure 20. Change in shoreline from the original Goat Island in 1938 to the eventual Rainmaker Hotel (1967). The site now holds Sadies by the Sea hotel. © AS HPO
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 29

Action 3. Increase coordination with regional 

fishery management organizations to reduce fishing 

fleet generated debris, including FADs.

This action includes collaboration with regional 

fishery management organizations to reduce marine 

debris generated at an international level as well 

as at the local level. Debris also includes discharge 

from vessels in addition to trash and fishingrelated debris.

Agency Lead: AS DMWR

Partners: NOAA PIRO, SPREP, WPFMC, AS DPA, 

USCG, NOAA Marine Debris, ASDOC GIS

1. Share the spatial data with fleets via WPFMC 

meetings, international fisheries meetings (e.g. 

Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission, 

Western and Central Pacific Fisheries 

Commission), WPFMC Advisory Panel meetings, 

and informal briefings.

2. Provide training on how to use the PIRMP to 

overlap the ecologically rich areas (ERAs), with 

vessel data and pollution data to educate fleet 

owners about possible impacts of debris and 

pollution on ERAs.

3. Use the PIRMP to identify geographic areas 

of accumulated debris and high vessel traffic, 

which may provide potential projects for 

collaborative clean-up efforts.

Objective 3: Spatially Plan for Ocean 

Ecosystem Changes and Increased Risks

Ocean ecosystem changes refer to scientifically 

observed warmer ocean temperatures and higher 

ocean water acidity. These changes influence 

the intensity and frequency of certain hazards 

(such as flooding, storm surge, high winds) and, 

in turn, affect disaster risk. Economic, social, and 

environmental resilience is interconnected with 

respect to climate change and natural disasters. 

For example, a tsunami in American Samoa can 

damage the tuna canneries and longline vessels, 

which are vital to the American Samoa economy; 

potentially cause damage to ecosystems depending 

on the level of debris entering the coasts and 

oceans from the canneries, longline vessels, and 

other anthropogenic sources; and also impact the 

communities of the workers in the longline and 

cannery industries through destruction of their 

homes and infrastructure. Economic resilience of 

human uses to disaster risk is discussed in Goal 2, 

Objective 2. This Objective and proposed actions 

focus on coordinating the ecosystem data and 

models that describe the ocean conditions, as 

well as the impacts of those changing conditions 

on the health of coastal and ocean ecosystems of 

American Samoa.

Mapping shifts in ocean species, habitats of interest, 

and chemistry allows for more informed ocean use 

planning in the future, when agencies are weighing 

trade-offs between proposed new uses, locations 

of current uses (Figure 20), and the ecology of 

American Samoa. Shifts in ocean species can be 

derived from longline, purse seine and trolling 

catch data. Knowing how species and habitats are 

shifting can enable American Samoa to be more 

resilient in the face of climate change because they 

can protect areas if needed or shift uses to more 

productive areas (such as fisheries). 

In 2015, the Governor of American Samoa appointed 

a cabinet-level Climate Change Task Force to 

help the jurisdiction respond to the impacts of a 

changing climate. He also released a proclamation 

which stated that, “although there is overwhelming 

Sini 3: Tapena lelei mo suiga e ono 

aafia ai le siosiomaga

Single-use styrofoam floating at Coconut 

Point Beach. © Nerelle Que
30 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Goal 1: Healthy Ocean and Coastal Ecosystems

evidence of climate change occurring both 

globally and regionally which is unique...these risks 

can be reduced through preparations, planning, 

surveillance, and taking simple personal and 

collective actions in educating our people about 

climate change and its impact on our health and 

the environment.” Earlier efforts also included the 

development of a 2012 Territorial Climate Change 

Adaptation Framework and Advisory Committee, 

as well as a 2012 Climate Change Summit.

A 2017 Pacific Islands Climate Change Cooperative 

Executive Summary on Climate Change Adaptation 

Planning in the US and Affiliated Pacific Islands 

provides an excellent overview of American Samoa’s 

legal authorities relevant to climate change, the 

institutional structure applicable to climate change 

adaptation, the government actions on climate 

change, and related international initiatives. 

Of relevance to this ocean plan, the ASDOC 

administers, in partnership with ASEPA, the 

implementation of the Territorial Integrated 

Geospatial Framework (TIFG) project funded 

through the Office of Insular Affairs Technical 

Assistance Program. This project uses the 

Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) 

GIS platform to develop a centralized database and 

geospatial infrastructure that can enable enhanced 

information exchange with governance units. The 

project is based on data sharing across government 

agencies to lead to increased understanding and 

systematic improvement in the protection of the 

environment, lives, livelihoods, and culture in the 

face of climate change. The TIFG project is also 

reassessing the local governing codes to ensure 

climate change is included in the permitting 

process. ASDOC CMP is currently in the process 

of updating the code to better incorporate modern 

resilience adaptation practices (e.g. climate 

change adaptation). 

Diver conducts benthic survey of bleached corals at Tutuila Island in American Samoa. © NOAA Fisheries
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 31

Action 1. Coordinate existing efforts to map shifts 

in ocean species distributions, habitats of interest, 

and chemistry.

NOAA’s Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center 

(PIFSC) and the American Samoa Department of 

Marine and Wildlife Resources (AS DMWR) are 

responsible for mapping shifts in ocean species. 

Projects such as this are ongoing, including 

conducting a tri-annual (every 3 years) National 

Coral Reef Monitoring Program (NCRMP) funded 

research cruise to American Samoa that provides 

long-term monitoring and assessment of corals, 

algae, invertebrates, fishes, and microbes, along 

with water quality and oceanographic conditions 

with a goal of improving our information base and 

understanding of the long-term trends and status of 

these fish/coral populations and related ecosystems. 

Habitats of interest around American Samoa have 

been characterized by PIFSC using a variety of 

techniques from single-beam, to multi-beam, to 

satellite imagery. 

In the past, NOAA’s Coral Reef Conservation 

Program (CRCP) provided significant funding to 

PIFSC to conduct mapping efforts in American 

Samoa. Although PIFSC isn’t currently collecting 

new mapping data in the region, it continues to 

work closely with partners such as AS National 

Marine Sanctuary Program, AS DMWR, and 

especially, the Hawai`i Mapping Research Group 

(HMRG) of the University of Hawai’i to provide 

habitat information, create maps and share data 

with partners. 

Ocean chemistry is monitored by PIFSC as part of 

the NCRMP funded research cruise described above, 

with additional funds provided by NOAA’s National 

Ocean Acidification Program. Ocean chemistry 

parameters include near-shore ocean currents, 

waves, subsurface and surface temperature, water 

chemistry, salinity, historical coral growth rates and 

ocean acidification. 

Agency Lead: ASDOC GIS

Partners: Climate Change Task Force (CCTF), 

GIS Users Group, NOAA OCM, AS DMWR, 

NOAA PIFSC

1. Identify available and potential 

information sources. 

2. Recommend ways to make current 

information and data more accessible 

to members and the public.

3. Convene resource managers, scientists, 

Traditional Knowledge holders, commercial 

fishermen, and other stakeholders to review 

and discuss: (1) data and methods that can be 

used to create maps that illustrate existing, 

historic, expected, or potential shifts in the 

distribution of marine species and habitats; 

(2) potential management applications of the 

maps; (3) additional data or information needed 

to enhance utility of draft maps; and (4) caveats 

for use. 

4. Coordinate partners and stakeholders regarding 

mapping data acquisition, using existing tools 

available for integrated ocean and coastal 

mapping collaboration, and leveraging support 

where feasible. 

5. Develop approaches to the production, peer 

review, metadata, and publication of maps 

that illustrate regional climate change-related 

biological and ecological changes. 

6. Facilitate the publication of maps on the PIRMP 

after they have been vetted and finalized. 

7. Identify resource needs and recommend 

methods to use new information to support 

initial and periodic updates of PIRMP mapping 

products to maintain its utility for management 
32 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Goal 1: Healthy Ocean and Coastal Ecosystems

agencies and stakeholders, as well as ensure 

that updates occur regularly as appropriate.

8. Use the above information to promote 

Fono, agency, stakeholder, and village 

education, outreach, and awareness related 

to climate impacts.

Action 2. Support existing local and regional 

initiatives related to ocean acidification. 

Changes in ocean chemistry have the potential 

to create economic, environmental, social, and 

cultural impacts in American Samoa. To begin to 

understand ocean acidification and its potential 

impacts, a more comprehensive review of initiativesones that include both coastal and ocean sampling 

sites- is needed. This action will improve capacities 

to detect and understand ecosystem impacts of 

ocean acidification and enhance awareness within 

management agencies and stakeholders of select 

chemical and ecological changes in the ocean 

ecosystem. Partnerships with organizations like the 

Pacific Islands Ocean Observing System (PacIOOS), 

a regional association of the US Integrated Ocean 

Observing System, will help to ensure a coordinated 

regional approach to addressing ocean acidification 

in the Pacific, as will drawing from experience in 

other parts of the Nation. This action can build 

on the existing climate change monitoring efforts 

that are conducted every three years by the NOAA 

PIFSC CRED. 

Agency Lead: NOAA PIFSC

Partners: AS DMWR, NOAA OCM, ASDOC CMP, 

ASDOC GIS, PacIOOS

1. Identify and compile a list of current regional 

ocean acidification monitoring efforts and 

technologies, research, and data gaps, as well as 

opportunities for partnerships and support. 

2. Identify and prioritize questions the collective 

efforts must address, potentially including 

location and number of offshore monitoring 

sites, appropriate time intervals for measuring 

ocean acidification, and the relationship 

between estuarine eutrophication and carbon 

dioxide absorption as drivers of coastal and 

ocean acidification. 

3. Convene scientists, stakeholders, Traditional 

Knowledge holders, and the public to review the 

incoming data and results and determine next 

steps for coordinated efforts to mitigate the 

effects of ocean acidification.

Action 3. Enhance the coordinated effort to 

reduce the impacts of nuisance and invasive species 

on coastal and ocean ecosystems.

Invasive species are those that are infiltrating the 

native environment to the detriment of native 

species and habitats. Nuisance species are those 

that could be invasive or native, but pose a threat 

to resources of concern. Both invasive and nuisance 

species can also pose a threat to food security if 

they negatively impact commerce, food supply 

(such as subsistence or commercial fisheries, or 

aquaculture), or navigation. The USFWS has strict 

quarantine protocols in place for vessels and 

personnel that are visiting Rose Atoll to conduct 

research. AS DMWR has already developed an 

invasive species plan. This effort would contribute a 

spatial component to that plan and provide data to 

inform those efforts 

Agency Lead: AS DMWR

Partners: USFWS, ASEPA, ASDOC, DPA, 

USCG, NOAA

1. Identify existing efforts and strategies for 

nuisance and invasive species control.
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 33

2. Develop new data or upload data that reflect 

sources of invasive species and problem areas 

for nuisance and invasive species.

3. Use data and the PIRMP to conduct outreach 

for improved source controls (e.g. ballast water) 

and link to efforts underway by other programs. 

4. Present options for agency-specific strategies, 

which include implementation mechanisms with 

the public and ASOPT. 

Action 4. Enhance or maintain climate change 

adaptation and resilience.

In addition to American Samoa’s climate adaptation 

planning efforts described in the section above, it is 

worth mentioning that there are also climate change 

initiatives at the federal level supporting local 

efforts. NOAA PIRO helped develop the Amouli 

Climate Resilience Plan. AS DMWR CRAG Climate 

Change Program is currently planning in Vatia 

and A’ua. 

Many of these efforts are focused on human uses 

or infrastructure and are not spatial. This action 

proposes to fill those gaps and contribute to the 

larger discussion.

Agency Lead: NOAA PIRO

Partners: NOAA Sanctuaries, AS DMWR CRAG, 

DMWR Community-based Fishery Management 

Program, ASEPA, GIS User Group, AS DHS 

1. Identify vulnerable species, ecosystems, 

habitats, areas and regions. 

2. Incorporate climate change data into 

community plans.

3. Continue to coordinate with the ASOPT and 

GIS User Group to ensure the PIRMP contains 

current data related to climate change 

adaptation efforts, vulnerability analyses, and 

impact studies. Crown of Thorns became a nuisance species in American Samoa when its population exploded due to land-based 

pollution run-off. © NOAA Fisheries
34 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Goal 1: Healthy Ocean and Coastal Ecosystems
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 35

Autu 2: O Le Mautu Ma Lelei O Le Fa’aaogaina O Le Sami 

Ma Le Gataifale

Goal 2: Sustainable Ocean and Coastal Uses

The Sustainable Ocean and Coastal Uses goal 

focuses on fostering coordination, transparency, 

and use of quality information to support 

accommodation of existing, new, and future 

ocean uses in a manner that minimizes conflict, 

enhances compatibility, improves effectiveness, 

enables regulatory predictability, and supports 

economic growth. Several reports as well as 

common knowledge document that the primary 

sources of income in American Samoa are derived 

from the American Samoa Government and the 

Starkist tuna cannery (Territorial General Plan 2003; 

Figure 21). American Samoa is striving to diversify 

its economy to promote economic resilience but 

faces challenges. In some cases, there is a need to 

correlate the socioeconomic means and aspirations 

of the villagers and the economic plans of ASG 

(Clark et al. 2012).

A strategic priority of the AS Department of 

Commerce is to enhance maritime job creation by 

increasing aquaculture production. This opportunity 

is further enhanced by a Congressional increase 

in funding for marine aquaculture. Another 

potential means of economic diversification may 

come through increased tourism (SPTO 2017), 

including ecotourism. Tourism development must 

be sustainable, as well as environmentally and 

culturally sensitive (Thero et al. 2010). The five 

objectives under this goal and associated actions 

provide mechanisms to encourage sustainable 

ocean and coastal uses.

Current Uses of the Coastal and Ocean 

Waters of American Samoa

The island of Tutuila has the highest density of 

coastal and ocean uses, ranging across commercial, 

recreational, cultural, educational, and scientific 

uses. Examples include tuna processing; purse 

seine, longline, and alia fishing; ferry and tug 

operations; seaport and airport operations; fuel 

Figure 21. Starkist Samoa tuna cannery in Atu'u is a major 

source of employment.

Visitors to the island have the opportunity to 

fish for pelagic and bottomfish species with 

recreational fishing companies such as Pago 

Pago Marine Charters. © Joseph Fa`aita
36 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Goal 2: Sustainable Ocean and Coastal Uses

and petroleum supply; telecommunications and 

wastewater infrastructure; and tourism. In the more 

remote Manu’a Islands, coastal and ocean uses are 

predominantly subsistence fishing by boat and 

from shore, swimming, seaports (Ta’u Island has 

Faleasao Harbor and Ta’u Harbor that are operated 

seasonally; Ofu has one), and coastal airports 

(Fitiuta Airport on Ta’u; Ofu Airport on Ofu). 

During a previous mapping effort in American 

Samoa, the WPFMC organized ocean and coastal 

uses into categories, which the ASOPT used during 

mapping exercises with the communities and 

stakeholders (Appendix 9). 

Through the community mapping exercises and 

consultation, the ASOPT further expanded on the 

“human use categories” for the ocean planning 

effort (Table 1). Types of uses that fall into each 

category are listed in the table below. Coastal 

access points are in all tables because the user 

groups are different. See the Data Chapter for a 

detailed description of data products that were 

generated from these same mapping exercises and 

consultations.

A description of each type of use and the spatial 

extent of the uses (0-3 nm, beyond 3nm, or both) 

can be found in Appendix 10. With the “Fueling” 

as an example, the tables in Appendix 10 describe 

that this use includes “Locations associated with 

fueling boats, transport of fuel for island” but does 

not include “Transport of people, transport of fish 

or goods.” Stakeholders noted that fueling occurs 

within 3 mi of the shore, but also occurs at sea at 

distances greater than 3 mi from shore. 

Human Uses Categories Types of Uses*

Administrative Uses

Marine jurisdictions, Administrative boundaries, Federal lease blocks, 

Special management areas, Fisheries management areas, Maritime 

heritage resources

Fishing and Village-Based Uses

Swimming, Spearfishing, Bottomfish fishing, Trolling, Handlining / bamboo 

pole / rod and reel fishing from shore, Shoreline and nearshore gleaning/ 

gathering (<5 ft deep), Gill nets, Throw nets, Sand mining, Shoreline 

recreation, Coastal access points, Recreational fishing, Sports fishing 

tournaments, Coastal clean-ups

Cultural Uses

Culturally significant fishing (e.g. akule runs), Culturally significant sites / 

landmarks, Fautasi races / canoe races, Coastal access points, Fishponds, 

Fautasi tours, Historic / culturally significant sites (e.g. Star Mound)

Recreational, Educational, 

and Research Uses

Recreational paddling, Swimming, Recreational diving, Recreational 

snorkeling, Surfing, Recreational sailing, Jet skiing, Educational activities, 

Research activities (university and local agency), Coastal access points

Maritime Commerce and Navigation

Shipping / commercial shipyard, Cannery operations / fish processing, 

Transport by boat / ferry, Fueling / fuel transport, Cruise ship operations, 

Yacht mooring, Coastal access points (terrestrial), Shipwrecks, Commercial 

fishing, Fresh fish export – off island, Aquaculture and mariculture, 

Navigational aids, Anchorage grounds, Ocean disposal sites

*These lists are not exhaustive and may be amended in the future.

Table 1. Human uses associated with the marine environment and types of uses within each category. 

Multi-use of the Pago Pago Port with the 

NOAA research vessel Hi'ialakai, a purse 

seiner, and a cargo ship.
Figure 22a. Maritime heritage sites on Tutuila and in the Manu’a Islands.

Shipwrecks

Coastal Fortifications

Archaeological Sites

Legend and Folklore Sites

Other Maritime Sites

American Samoa Village Boundaries

Map Key
38 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Goal 2: Sustainable Ocean and Coastal Uses

Figure 22b. Maritime heritage sites on Tutuila and in the Manu’a Islands.

Shipwrecks

Coastal Fortifications

Archaeological Sites

Legend and Folklore Sites

Other Maritime Sites

American Samoa Village Boundaries

Map Key
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 39

Administrative Uses: This category includes several 

types of government uses, both at the federal and 

territorial level: Marine jurisdictions, Administrative 

boundaries, Federal lease blocks, Special 

management areas, Fisheries management areas, 

Maritime heritage resources. Maritime heritage 

resources consist of cultural, archaeological, 

and historical properties associated with coastal 

and marine areas and/or seafaring activities and 

traditions. For the purposes of ocean planning, 

cultural activities are in their own category below. 

Many of the maritime heritage resources were 

documented in the 2007 NOAA Office of National 

Marine Sanctuaries American Samoa Maritime 

Heritage Inventory (Van Tilburg 2007). The report 

compiled databases, archival material, and known 

reports of maritime heritage sites, but did not 

initiate any new surveys; the report included 

mapped areas of heritage sites (Figures 22a 

and 22b).

Spatial ‘special’ and ‘fishery’ management 

designations include:

• Longline Vessel Prohibited Area (LVPA) 

implemented by the WPFMC and NOAA 

NMFS. The LVPA is a closure to longline vessels 

that extends from zero to 50 nm offshore to 

reduce gear conflicts and increased resource 

competition with smaller alia vessels that do not 

have the ability to venture far from port. 

• Special Management Areas (ASAC §26.0221) 

implemented by AS DMWR.

• Community Based Fishery Management Program 

(ASAC §24.0905) implemented by AS DMWR.

• Annual Proclamation (ASAC §24.0908) 

implemented by AS DMWR.

Fishing and Village Based Uses: This category 

includes extractive and non-extractive uses: 

Swimming, Spearfishing, Bottomfishing, Trolling 

(Figure 23), Handlining / bamboo pole / rod and 

reel fishing from shore, Shoreline and nearshore 

gleaning/ gathering (<5 ft deep), Gill nets, Throw 

nets, Sand mining, Shoreline recreation, Coastal 

access points, Recreational fishing, Sports fishing 

tournaments, Coastal clean-ups. Some village 

uses may be found under recreational and/or 

cultural uses.

Commercial and recreational fishing are significant 

economic activities in the jurisdiction, and both are 

part of the region’s culture and sense of place. 

Recreational fishermen fish both nearshore and far 

from shore, crossing into federal waters. Charter 

fishermen generally fish in federal waters at the 

seamounts and banks targeting pelagic and 

bottomfish species. 

The federal government and ASG, as well 

as villages, have their respective roles in the 

management of fishing in the territory. From 

shore to 3 nautical miles (nm) offshore, AS DMWR 

manages the fisheries resources. From 3nm seaward 

to the boundary of the US EEZ, or up to 200 nm 

offshore, fishing is regulated by NOAA NMFS, 

based on recommendations from the WPFMC. 

Resources that extend beyond the range of the EEZ, 

considered the “high seas,” are managed by NOAA 

NMFS, in cooperation with the WPFMC, the State 

Department, and several international organizations 

such as the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries 

Commission and the Inter-American Tropical Tuna 

Commission. 

The actions within this Plan are intended to improve 

collaboration between the federal government, 

ASG, and villages with respect to regional fisheries 

management. The PIRMP is a source of information 

Figure 23. Alia vessel used for fishing. 

© Christopher Hawkins

Port at Aunuu. © Andrew Torres
40 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Goal 2: Sustainable Ocean and Coastal Uses

that can be used to identify areas that fisheries are 

utilizing, can thereby helping resource managers 

and project proponents gain a sense of the value 

of ocean space to different communities, including 

the fishing community, when considering decisions 

about the use of ocean space.

Actions identified in this Plan do not supplant or 

change the authority or decisions of ASG, NOAA 

NMFS, or other fishery regulatory authorities, 

nor does the Plan create any new management 

authorities. The intent of the American Samoa 

Ocean Planning Team is to act as a forum for ASG 

and federal agencies to discuss the implications 

of fishery management decisions taken under 

existing authorities, so that the full impact of those 

decisions is clearer. Ocean planning also includes 

the consideration of protected wildlife species that 

may interact with fisheries and fishing communities. 

Cultural Uses: This category includes current 

and historic ocean and coastal uses: Culturally 

significant fishing (e.g. akule runs; Figure 24), 

Culturally significant sites / landmarks, Fautasi races 

/ Canoe races, Coastal access points, Fishponds, 

Fautasi tours, Historic / culturally significant sites 

(e.g. Laumei ma Malie, Figure 25). This category also 

includes annual palolo gathering and i`a sina, which 

can be added in the future.

Connections among natural and human components 

of American Samoa’s ecosystem are exemplified 

by Traditional Knowledge held by village members, 

fishermen, and other generational users of the 

ocean, as well as other cultural resources and 

values. The proposed objectives and actions weave 

that valuable knowledge into what is understood 

and considered by agencies tasked with moderating 

resource use. 

Participatory GIS mapping and information 

feedback loops are the suggested implementation 

tools to gather and utilize additional cultural use 

data. The ASOPT wants to acknowledge that the 

Sustainable Ocean and Coastal Use goal may 

be incompatible with some traditional cultural 

practices, given that particular types of traditional 

reef fishing, may not be sustainable. 

Recreational, Educational, and Research Uses: 

This category includes consumptive and nonconsumptive uses: Recreational paddling, 

Swimming, Recreational diving, Recreational 

snorkeling, Surfing, Recreational sailing, Jet 

skiing, Educational activities, Research activities 

(university and local agency), Coastal access 

points, public shoreline and ocean access, 

relaxation, and aesthetics.

For the recreation subcategory, non-consumptive 

recreation is any recreational use that provides an 

experience rather than a product. Popular activities 

Figure 24. Each summer the WPFMC sponsors a high school 

fisheries course during which students learn both traditional 

and modern fishing methods. © Mac Aveina
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 41

include swimming, surfing, and paddling (Figure 

26). Consumptive recreation includes activities such 

as recreational and charter boat fishing, which are 

included in the “Fishing” Category above. 

Education and scientific research uses include 

monitoring the coastal and ocean waters by 

scientific personnel from the AS DMWR, ASEPA, 

American Samoa Community College, University 

of Hawai`i, USFWS, and NOAA. Information 

about these activities can be garnered from 

permit activities.

Informative scientific equipment is deployed on 

or anchored to the seafloor. This infrastructure 

provides valuable data about real-time atmospheric 

and oceanographic conditions at sea and along 

the coast, such as tides, air temperature, water 

temperature, wave height, and wind speed. 

Figure 25. WPFMC sponsored high school fisheries course displaying their harvest from a pelagics fishing excursion. © Joseph Fa`aita

Figure 26. South Pacific Watersports is a local business aimed at 

improving access to the coastal area through surf board, kayak, 

and stand up paddle rentals.

Recreating at Sadies by the Sea beach. 

© Nate Ilaoa

Two Dollar Beach is a popular recreation beach 

with day-use fales for rent. 
42 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Goal 2: Sustainable Ocean and Coastal Uses

Instruments deployed for long periods of time 

provide time series data that help track changing 

conditions and aid in the study of climate change, 

natural environmental variability, and impacts from 

other human activities. Some of the data from at-sea 

equipment can be viewed real-time and downloaded 

online through PacIOOS’s website.

Maritime Commerce and Navigation: This category 

includes: Shipping / commercial shipyard, Cannery 

operations / fish processing, Transport by boat / 

ferry (Figure 27), Fueling / Fuel transport, Cruise 

ship operations, Yacht mooring, Coastal access 

points (terrestrial), Shipwrecks (that are not cultural 

or historical), Commercial fishing, Fresh fish export – 

off island, Aquaculture and mariculture, Navigational 

aids, Anchorage grounds, Ocean disposal sites.

Throughout the waters of American Samoa, marine 

transportation (Figure 28) utilizes ocean and coastal 

waters to provide jobs and economic security. 

Maritime commerce in Pago Pago Harbor is vibrant 

and vital to the territory’s economy as well as to its 

food and commodities security. Not only is maritime 

commerce and navigation linked to other ocean 

uses, they are also linked to land-based needs. As 

other existing and potential ocean uses like wind 

energy, aquaculture, and sand management require 

increasingly more ocean space, ocean planning 

and thorough navigation safety risk assessments 

will help address competing ocean uses, maximize 

benefits from increased maritime commerce, while 

mitigating risks to safety and the environment. 

Undersea infrastructure refers to equipment 

and technology placed on the ocean floor. This 

infrastructure includes cables for telecommunication 

and power transmission, and stationary equipment 

for scientific research. 

There are a few submarine cables in American 

Samoa (Figure 29). Submarine cables are Figure 28. 2017 maritime traffic (https://www.marinetraffic.com). 

Figure 27. AS DPA vessels M/V Sili and the M/V Manuatele. © Sarah Pautzke
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 43

Figure 29. Submarine cables between American Samoa, Western Samoa, and other islands.

Sini 1: Fautuaina le fa’aaoga tatau 

o matafaga ma gataifale aemaise 

ogasami

critical infrastructure for modern society; 

telecommunication cables transmit between 

97–99 percent of international digital and voice 

communication. Most cables are buried three to 

six feet below the seabed. As cables are taken out 

of service, they are generally not removed. In the 

future, any development of offshore wind energy 

farms would require multiple power cable systems 

to be laid. 

In the coastal area, commercial and industrial 

harbor uses have expanded and will be further 

expanded in the future. Related activities include a 

new container terminal adjacent to the Tri Marine 

Samoa Tuna Processors plant, development of 

new marina facilities, the newly renovated Ronald 

Reagan Marine Railway Shipyard slipway and new 

office building, rebuilding the Malaloa sport fishing 

dock, and wharves for expanded local commercial 

fishing, a berthing pier for cruise ships, and a tourist 

terminal facility (Lyon Associates 2001). 

Objective 1: Encourage Sustainable 

and Appropriate Coastal and Ocean 

Development and Uses

This objective builds spatial components into 

known planning efforts. Maps are a powerful tool 

to visualize current uses, threat layers (e.g. tsunami 

inundation, sea level rise), biophysicial layers (e.g. 

seamounts, coral reef, wind speed, ocean current 

and speed, etc.), and administrative layers (e.g. EFH, 

enforcement agency jurisdictions, etc.) to assess 

potential locations for future uses. Coastal use maps 

can also be used to inform plans, such as showing 

coastal uses pre and post tsunami events.

Action 1. Identify the extent and attributes 

of existing coastal and ocean uses.

Several coastal uses have already been identified 

in mapping efforts done by ASDOC and NOAA. 

ASDOC GIS and NOAA OCM have already 

coordinated through the GIS User Group to ensure 

agency spatial data are being shared. Existing 

data include land use (ASDOC), fishing and 

species data (Western Pacific Fishery Information 

Network), drinking water sources (ASEPA), fish 

catch (AS DMWR), watersheds (CRAG/ ASCC 

Land Grant), power and water lines (ASPA), and 

fishing permits (NOAA NMFS). Additionally, there 

are data from research vessels, research projects, 

and participatory mapping (pGIS) efforts that 

could be included. This action builds on those 

efforts, expands the spatial footprint out to deeper 

waters, and ensures the inclusion of new data in a 

larger PIRMP.
44 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Goal 2: Sustainable Ocean and Coastal Uses

Agency Lead: NOAA OCM

Partners: NPS, AS DHS, AS HPO, ASDOC, 

AS DMWR, AS DPA, ASEPA, ASPA

1. Work with ASDOC GIS and NOAA OCM to 

evaluate the spatial data related to current 

uses and ensure adherence to quality 

assurance standards.

2. Ensure that spatial data related to agency, 

commercial, private, education, research, and 

other uses are included in the PIRMP, as well as 

results of prior pGIS studies.

3. Conduct pGIS mapping with stakeholder groups 

and the communities to identify:

• what and where current village uses occur 

from the coastal through ocean area 

• what and where recreational uses occur from 

the coastal through ocean area 

• uses that are perceived as spatially and 

temporally compatible

• uses that are not perceived as spatially and 

temporally compatible

Action 2. Map best management practices for 

current coastal uses and identify gaps in best 

management practices.

Best management practices (BMPs) are drivers for 

sustainable coastal and ocean uses. There are plans 

that include BMPs, but many plans and the BMPs 

have not been integrated into spatial databases 

alongside the uses they are planning for.

Agency Lead: ASDOC Planning

Partners: NRCS, USFWS, ASDOC, ASEPA, ASPA, AS 

HPO, Department of Health, DMWR, AS DPR, DPW, 

CCTF, AS DHS, USCG 

1. Identify the spatial footprint of BMPs related to 

coastal and ocean uses (e.g. special management 

areas for Leone, Nuuuli, Pala, Pago Pago Harbor, 

and Malaeimi; marine protected areas; Villagebased conservation plans; NRCS conservation 

plans; watershed plans; US Coral Reef Task Force 

Faga’alu Priority Watershed designation; National 

Park, Sanctuary, Marine National Monument, and 

National Wildlife Refuge Boundaries; watershed 

studies; PNRS; and Federal Regulations). Include 

planning documents such as the 2012 American 

Samoa Tsunami Study, 2015 Multi-Hazard 

Mitigation Plan, Field Guide for Erosion and 

Sediment Control (2011), Clean Harbor Policy, 

and Harbor Master Plan.

2. Develop a map to describe where BMP 

implementation is likely underutilized and where 

it overlaps with uses using the coastal uses map 

and the BMP implementation map.

3. Coordinate with planners and users to discuss 

needed BMPs or highlight success stories where 

BMPs are enabling sustainable uses. Post success 

stories on ASDOC website and the PIRMP.

Action 3. Identify areas appropriate for specific 

types of economic development and future uses. 

The Territorial General Plan (TGP; 2007) outlines a 

10-year plan with a vision for the future of American 

Samoa, a focus on primary concerns, creates a 

cooperative coordinated system of development, 

identifies strategic paths and best use of funds, 

creates capacity to implement programs, and 

outlines benchmarks. The TGP is the foundation 

for economic development in American Samoa 

and this Plan builds on that. This particular action 

evaluates areas in the coast and ocean that could 

be appropriate for future development, as well as 

movement of a current use into a new location, 

assesses potential for conflict between uses such as 
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 45

Figure 30. Pago Pago Harbor Use map developed by NOAA Coral Reef Conservation Program. 

recreational and commercial fishing, and identifies 

options for conflict mitigation (e.g. gear conflict). 

Agency Lead: ASDOC Planning

Partners: ASEPA, AS DMWR, AS Visitors Bureau, 

ASPA, AS DPA, NOAA OCM, DPR, ASDOC 

(GIS, CMP) 

1. Conduct participatory mapping with 

stakeholder groups and the communities 

to identify:

• desired future uses (using the use 

categories described earlier in this chapter) 

• undesirable future uses (using the use 

categories described earlier in this chapter)

• future uses that are perceived as spatially 

and temporally compatible

• future uses that are perceived as spatially 

and temporally incompatible

2. Execute GIS studies from coast to ocean to 

create ‘compatibility maps’ for offshore uses, 

such as wind speeds and wave intervals for 

offshore wind platforms.

3. Digitize relevant planning information from 

the TGP.

4. Overlay compatibility maps (from Task 2) and 

planning information from the TGP (from task 3) 

with participatory mapping information (from 

Task 1) to create a map of areas ‘appropriate’ for 

specific types of development and uses, similar 

to the use mapping that was completed for Pago 

Pago Harbor (Figure 30).

5. Post information and maps developed in Tasks 

above to the PIRMP and ASDOC websites.

Action 4. Identify management agencies, 

jurisdictions, and enforcement capacities 

related to existing coastal and ocean uses.

Existing federal law, such as NEPA, offers numerous 

opportunities for federal and state coordination. 

For projects that may require an environmental 

assessment or impact statement under NEPA, lead 

federal agencies may, to the extent practicable, 

discuss with ASG the jurisdiction over the proposed 

project and the potential for a coordinated 

approach to NEPA and territorial review. Such 

discussion will be influenced by a range of existing 

statutory, regulatory, administrative, and/or practical 

measures. Additionally, NEPA assessments may 

include or border communal lands, thus Office 
46 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Goal 2: Sustainable Ocean and Coastal Uses

of Samoan Affairs may also be involved in the 

coordination efforts. This action provides spatial 

data and context for that coordination. 

Agency Lead: ASDOC Planning and GIS

Partners: NOAA (PIRO, OLE, Weather Service), 

Office of the Gov nor, ASPA, DOI (USFWS, NPS), 

ASEPA, AS DMWR, AS DHS, AS Treasury (Customs), 

AS Legal Affairs (Immigration), AS Department of 

Agriculture, AS DOH, AS DPA, AS DPR, OSA, ASVB, 

AS HPO, US EPA, and US Department of State

1. Develop spatial data products to describe 

leasing, environmental review, and regulatory 

entities, including where and when relevant 

authorities play roles in decisions related 

to offshore uses, such as aquaculture, port 

expansion, tourism activities, offshore energy, 

and other uses.

2. Develop spatial data products that identify 

intersections of key federal programs and 

statutes related to offshore uses such as 

aquaculture, port expansion, tourism activities, 

offshore energy, and other uses.

3. Map jurisdictions of relevant agencies. Select 

agencies and villages within the planning extent 

that have a management role and authority 

from 3 nm to the extent of the EEZ. Also 

identify which agencies do not have a role (e.g. 

DOI Bureau of Ocean Energy Management 

currently has no jurisdiction in the territories).

4. Map areas of known or suspected illegal fishing 

by foreign vessels, identify actions to improve 

enforcement, and map enforcement capabilities 

from strongest to weakest mechanisms (e.g. 

illegal fishing in Fagatele Bay is easier to 

enforce than illegal fishing in Rose Atoll due to 

distance and available enforcement agents).

5. Identify areas of overlapping jurisdiction and 

thus potential collaborative management 

between agencies. For example, the ASDOC 

and ASEPA both have reputations for working 

well within communities and across agencies, 

encouraging collaboration for the benefit of 

the environment. These relationships can be 

expanded to also benefit the economy of 

American Samoa. 

6. Post information and maps developed in Tasks 

above to the PIRMP and ASDOC websites.

Action 5. Identify the different permitting

 processes for the coastal and ocean areas. 

One of the primary goals of ocean planning is 

to enable a smoother permitting process with 

openness for activity proposers, as well as 

agencies, with high quality transparent data. In 

American Samoa, permitting activities that occur 

on land out to 3 nm offshore are vetted through 

the PNRS. The method for applying for permits is 

well documented and available online. However, 

information for obtaining a permit from 3 nm to 

the extent of the EEZ is less known publicly and is 

done on an agency by agency, permit by permit, 

activity by activity basis. This action addresses the 

lack of publicly-known, well- coordinated processes 

for ocean permits (3 nm-EEZ), and helps to guide 

how a project proposer might apply for a permit, 

including which agency to approach first and what 

information is needed from them. 

Agency Lead: ASDOC Planning

Partners: NOAA PIRO, US Army Corps of Engineers 

(USACE), AS DMWR, USCG, AS DPA, USFWS, NPS, 

USEPA, ASEPA, ASDOC (CMP, PNRS)

1. Identify paths for permitting based on the 

proposed activity (e.g. offshore aquaculture, 

nearshore aquaculture, offshore wind).

2. Document these paths in a report that is 

Development of Utulei Beach published online at ASDOC with the PNRS 

(1942, 1942, 1967, 2018). © AS HPO
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 47

Sini 2: Fuafua le fa’aaogaina o le 

tamaoaiga o le gataifale ma le sami 

ina ia mafai ona fa’aauauina lona 

fa’aaogaina nei ma le aga’i i 

le lumana’i 

Port on Ofu Island. An alia and a DPA ferry are tethered

to the dock. © Sarah Pautzke

information. Include in the document how 

PNRS may be involved, as well as a chapter that 

articulates the PNRS process, so that the report 

may be a one-stop shop for activity proposals 

from the shore to the extent of the EEZ.

3. Link the PIRMP with the AS Data Portal and 

PNRS system.

4. Place and maintain links to agency 

announcements about proposed offshore 

development activities on the ASDOC website.

5. Use the PIRMP, ASDOC Data Portal, and 

ASDOC websites to enhance access to data, 

environmental reports, and proposed offshore 

use development activities.

Objective 2: Spatially Plan Coastal 

and Ocean Resources and Uses to 

Ensure Economic Resilience in the 

Following Areas:

1. Subsistence and village-based activities

2. Economic development and commercial use

3. Recreational and research/education

This objective focuses on spatial tools to anticipate 

and plan for continuity of operations to ensure 

resilience during, and assess capacity to respond 

to, emergencies and natural disasters. American 

Samoa’s government has developed plans for 

climate change impacts, increasing sea levels, and 

natural disaster preparedness. These plans include 

the ASDOC 2015 Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan, DOC 

Master Plan, the DPA Harbor Master Plan, Territorial 

Response Plan, and USACE 2012 American Samoa 

Tsunami Study. The local weather station (NOAA 

National Weather Service) and AS Department of 

Homeland Security (AS DHS) Territorial Emergency 

Management and Coordination Office (TEMCO) are 

working on Severe Weather plans, updating flood 

zone maps and tsunami models. Other agencies 

have related plans: AS DMWR, NOAA NWS, ASDOC, 

AS DPA, and the USCG. AS DHS TEMCO houses the 

National Tsunami Mitigation Program and is tasked 

with maintaining and conducting vulnerability 

assessments and associated data related to flood 

zones, tsunami and coastal hazards and threats, and 

more. Existing and relevant data layers include land 

use zones, coastal hazards (flood insurance maps 

and tsunami maps), and general plans. 

Action 1. Protect existing infrastructure and adapt 

plans for future infrastructure and uses in response 

to sea level rise, storms, and other coastal hazards. 

This action will inform planning for future 

development activities using data related to sea 

level rise, storms, and other coastal hazards. Many 

of the tasks below assess capacity to respond to 

emergencies and natural disasters. The planning 

connection between infrastructure and resilience is 

clear: during consultations with communities, two 

villages asked that beach and road infrastructure 

(sea walls, revetments) be built or restored to 

protect the villages from coastal erosion as well as 

to improve the health and safety of their coasts. 

Additionally, resilient harbor operations serve a 

critical role in economic and food security, as the 

majority of imports and exports come through 

the seaport.

Relevant permitting processes include demolition 

(ASEPA), USACE, National Flood Insurance Program, 

the Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) from DOC, and Fagatogo Marina in which several types of 

vessels are berthed. © Christopher Hawkins
48 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Goal 2: Sustainable Ocean and Coastal Uses

the Erosion/ Sediment BMP Guide. National Flood 

Insurance Program (NFIP) regulations cover flood 

zones, storm surge areas, and more. AS DHS TEMCO 

is responsible for the National Tsunami Hazard 

Mitigation Program and for conducting vulnerability 

assessments related to natural disasters.

Agency Lead: ASDOC CMP

Partners: ASEPA (water quality data), USACE, 

PNRS, Hazard Mitigation Planning, ASPA, AS DPA, 

ASDOC Planning, ASDOC GIS, AS DHS, USCG

1. Ensure inclusion of spatial data from noted 

plans into the PIRMP. 

2. Review NFIP regulations for land use and 

building permits (adopted in 2010).

3. Identify existing coastal hazard and mitigation 

plans related to the above areas and within the 

shoreline to 3 nm. 

4. Identify plans and permitting processes that 

account for future infrastructure planning but 

do not have associated spatial data. Digitize the 

data and include in a PIRMP.

5. Conduct a flood zone vulnerability assessment 

using the information about hazards and 

existing infrastructure to pinpoint existing 

infrastructure that is under threat during 

its anticipated lifetime. Assess locations for 

seawalls, stairs, revetments, and other shoreline 

structures to improve resiliency against natural 

disasters and coastal erosion and increase 

coastal and ocean safety and health.

6. Use the projects and planning information to 

identify areas where the planning and permitting 

of future infrastructure conflicts with projected 

future hazards within the planning horizon.

7. Use the projects and planning information to 

identify areas where the impact of projected 

future hazards on planning and permitting of 

future infrastructure is unknown within the 

planning horizon.

Objective 3: Enhance, Promote, and 

Maintain Sustainable Traditional Values 

and Knowledge As They Relate to Coastal 

and Ocean Uses

Maintaining Fa’a Samoa, or the Samoan way of life, 

is important to the individuals and communities 

of American Samoa. Many villages in American 

Samoa have their own community management 

plans and policies regarding traditional values and 

knowledge; the intent of this objective is to ensure 

an exchange of regional spatial data and local 

traditional data. Government plans require active 

participation and support of the village leadership, 

which was specifically noted by Clark et al. (2012) 

when discussing the role of the village in resilience 

planning for tsunamis. 

Action 1. Integrate Traditional Ecological 

Knowledge (TEK) into the AS GIS Data Portal 

and into the PIRMP.

AS DMWR has digitized traditional data from these 

community management plans and is currently 

coordinating with ASDOC GIS to publish open 

data on the AS GIS Data Portal. While AS DMWR 

continues to be the lead agency for collecting new 

data from village efforts, ASDOC GIS is coordinating 

with NOAA OCM to identify data products that 

could support community management efforts. This 

action is a call to other federal and ASG agencies 

to contribute additional information to the AS GIS 

Data Portal. For example, some priority watershed 

projects, such as Faga’alu, collected information 

about the reefs, fishing activities, and coastal 

impacts through socioeconomic surveys. 

Sini 3: Fa’atumauina le fa’atauaina 

ma le aoga- o le fa’aaogaina o le 

tomai fa’aleaganu’u i fuafuaga uma

Seawall in the village of Afao. The shoreline here 

is used by villagers for swimming and fishing. 

© Sarah Pautzke
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 49

Vatia

Vatia

Leloaloa

Leloaloa

Aua

Aua

Laulii

Laulii

Anua

Anua

Pago Pago

Pago Pago

Fagatogo Fagatogo Utulei

Utulei

Fagaalu

Fagaalu

Matuu

Matuu

Faganeanea

Faganeanea

Nuuuli

Nuuuli

Fatumafuti

Fatumafuti

Atuu

Atuu

Afono

Afono

Bottomfishing

Cannery Operations

Cultural Fishing

Gill Nets

Special Management Area

Trolling

Shoreline Gleaning

Spearfishing

Jetski Legend

Fautasi Outrigger Paddling

Sailing

Yacht Mooring

Special Management Area

Scuba Diving

Shoreline Recreation

Surfing

Snorkeling

Legend

These two maps show the different recreational uses (left) and fishing uses (right) of Pago Pago Harbor, as well as an overlaid ASG Special Management Area. Port operations also occur 

here on the south part of the harbor in Fagatogo, which can be seen on page 45.
50 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Goal 2: Sustainable Ocean and Coastal Uses

Agency Lead: AS DMWR

Partners: ASDOC GIS, NOAA OCM, OSA, AS GIS 

Users Group, NPS

1. Identify agencies and organizations involved 

with tracking TEK.

2. Review existing TEK surveys (existing MPAs, 

watershed TEK, climate info).

3. Coordinate with ASDOC and ASEPA efforts 

to build data into Data Portal and support 

inclusion of data from those surveys.

4. Discern spatial gaps where no cultural 

information is available for an area.

5. Engage OSA to assist and inform researchers

of what data are needed in cultural areas.

6. Direct agencies and departments to work 

with the GIS User Group to package outreach 

materials to include a spatial component.

Action 2. Identify areas where traditional ocean 

uses have occurred, do occur, and could occur in the 

future to minimize conflicts with other ocean uses.

Identifying areas where traditional uses have 

occurred, do occur and could occur better informs 

agencies who are permitting new uses to evaluate 

the impacts of the proposed use against the 

traditional use and, if warranted, require the permit 

applicant to seek a different location for proposed 

activities. Within the coastal area, village-based 

MPAs include existing plans that describe the 

temporal and spatial extent of extractive and nonextractive traditional practices (e.g. sand mining). 

These data layers may then be consulted during 

proposal reviews. The purpose of this action is 

to replicate this process for ocean areas, 

where applicable.

Paddling an outrigger canoe in the calm waters below Mt. Matafao. © Burg Salanoa
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 51

Sini 4: Fa’atauaina le saogalemu o 

tagata lautele o Amerika Samoa e 

ala i le fa’aleleia o feso’otaiga i le va 

o vaega a le malo- fa’alotoifale ma 

le feterale

DPS marine patrol boat. © Sarah Pautzke

Agency Lead: AS DMWR

Partners: OSA, ASDOC CMP, ASDOC GIS, 

NOAA OCM

1. Elaborate on the data layer that describes 

the temporal and spatial extent of extractive 

and non-extractive traditional practices from 

3nm seaward.

2. Refer to these data layers during proposal 

reviews, or, if you are a permittee, refer to 

these layers to determine compatibility with 

traditional practices.

Action 3. Provide education and outreach of 

spatial tools and identified spatial footprints of 

traditional practices to villages.

The purpose of this action is to ensure a strong 

feedback loop between tools created, communities 

that can benefit from them, and agencies using the 

tools in decision making. These tools and associated 

educational efforts are the means to enhance and 

ground truth known traditional knowledge related 

to coastal and ocean uses, and teach the villages 

how to utilize the tools to develop well-articulated 

and informed agency feedback when agencies are 

vetting future uses.

Agency Lead: ASDOC GIS

Partners: AS DMWR, ASDOC CMP, OSA, 

NOAA OCM

1. Host workshops in villages and with targeted 

stakeholder groups (e.g. cultural practitioners) 

to explain the available spatial tools and teach 

them how to use the tools.

Objective 4: Account for National 

Security Interests in the AS Coastal 

and Ocean Waters Through Enhanced 

Coordination, Increased Transparency, 

and Sharing of Information Across 

Territorial and Federal Agencies and 

Ocean Users

Multiple branches of the Department of Defense 

(DOD, i.e., the US Navy, Army, Marine Corps, and 

Air Force), the US DHS (i.e., USCG), NOAA OLE, 

and AS DHS are responsible for the Nation’s 

security. Improved communication between the 

military and non-military government, at the 

federal and territorial levels, is imperative for 

successful ocean planning. 

Falling under the Coast Guard’s 14th District

and attached to Coast Guard Sector Honolulu, 

Marine Safety Detachment American Samoa 

(MSD AmSam) is a unique unit. As part of the 

Coast Guard’s 11 statutory missions, marine safety 

is crucial to the economy and infrastructure of 

American Samoa. MSD AmSam is responsible 

for conducting approximately 50 vessel exams 

annually of the island’s commercial tuna fleet, 

which is the island’s largest employer. On average, 

MSD AmSam conducts 25 to 30 investigations 

per year varying from pollution response and 

marine casualties to vessel groundings on the 

island’s reef. MSD AmSam regularly coordinates 

with the local government on issues like hurricane 

planning, tsunami preparedness, and community 
52 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Goal 2: Sustainable Ocean and Coastal Uses

safety outreach programs in an effort to prevent or 

mitigate negative impacts. MSD AmSam frequently 

interfaces with AS DPA regarding harbor closures, 

restrictions, and security risks, such as the screening 

and inspecting of all foreign flagged vessels that 

arrive into Pago Pago Harbor. This includes tank 

vessels and cargo vessels that recurrently carry fuel 

and goods into and out of the island. Lastly, MSD 

AmSam ensures the safety and security of landbased facilities such as the piers, loading docks, and 

fueling areas through an annual inspection program.

Action 1. Identify and consult with the Plan and 

Data Portal as important sources of information in 

decision-making for security programs, initiatives, 

and planning documents.

Communication between the military and 

nonmilitary governmental agencies is improved 

when DOD and DHS continue to share pertinent 

information with other agencies, which helps 

to address a variety of impacts to training and 

testing activities. US DHS intends to use this Plan 

and the Data Portal as mechanisms to guide and 

inform DOD and US DHS programs, initiatives, and 

planning documents when involved in the multiple 

coordination task forces and other planning groups 

that DOD currently participates in. US DHS regularly 

participates in a wide variety of existing Federal, 

State, and local agency coordination groups, 

forums, and advisory panels across the nation, and 

will work to identify additional outlets in which it 

would be beneficial to participate.

Agency Lead: USCG

Partners: ASDHS, DPA, DPS, NOAA OLE

1. Work with contacts to identify the Plan and the 

Data Portal as important sources of information 

in decision making.

2. Consult the Plan and the Data Portal, along with 

other sources of information, in the preparation 

of internal agency guidance, existing 

procedures, and environmental planning.

Action 2. Identify DOD and US DHS points of 

contact for the national security data layers in 

the Data Portal. 

Ensuring that agencies have appropriate points 

of contact improves interagency coordination 

and will enable decision makers to understand 

the implications of proposed regulations and 

development plans on DOD and DHS security, 

training, testing, and a variety of other missionspecific needs.

Agency Lead: USCG

Partners: DOD Marine Corps, DOD Navy, ASDHS

1. Agencies will, to the extent practicable, update 

the national security data on the Data Portal as 

needed, such as when applicable permits are 

renewed, or operations significantly change.

Objective 5: Spatially Plan for Enhanced 

Food Security

American Samoa is an isolated territory in the 

south Pacific Ocean. It is particularly susceptible 

to natural disaster and human-made impacts that 

affect food supply. For example, Cyclone Gita 

(2018) destroyed several papaya, breadfruit, and 

banana crops, reducing the local food availability 

in American Samoa (among other areas). Resilient 

ocean economic development includes enhanced 

and protected food supply, as it relates to fishing 

and aquaculture as well as resilience within the 

ports to disasters. The following actions pertain to 

Sini 5: Fuafua lelei tamaoaiga aua 

le fofoga taumafa o le mamalu o le 

atunu’u lautele
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 53

Tugboat ISEULA maneuvers in Pago Pago Harbor. 

© Christopher King

Tugboat PEGGY H, now Tugboat ISEULA, is the 

tug boat used by AS DPA for vessel escort, pilot 

transfers, and ship assists. © Christopher King

improving food supply to American Samoa as well 

as maintaining access via shipping routes. 

Action 1. Identify potential areas for increased 

local food supply from the ocean.

To support this objective, agencies identify potential 

areas for increased food supply from the ocean. This 

includes identification of future aquaculture sites, 

new fish aggregating device (FAD) sites, and areas 

that may be ripe for conservation because they are 

hatchery or juvenile habitat for species in which the 

adults are harvested. 

Agency Lead: AS DMWR

Partners: AS DPA, USCG, ASDOC, NOAA PIFSC, 

NOAA PIRO, WPFMC

1. Build on the GIS compatibility studies relates to 

uses. Assess spatial locations that are promising 

with respect to ocean and coastal aquaculture. 

Assess locations that are compatible with 

new FADs. 

2. Assess desirability and spatial extent of future 

uses related to food production.

Action 2. Ensure shipping routes and FADs are 

mapped and that future activities do not impact 

these routes.

American Samoa relies heavily on imports and 

fishing for its food supply. Ensuring the shipping 

routes and FADs are not impacted by future 

activities can ameliorate impacts to food supply. 

Additionally, knowing where FADs and buoys are 

on a map can help with a post hurricane or tsunami 

search should the FAD, buoy, or other structures in 

the ocean lose their mooring.

Agency Lead: USCG

Partners: AS DPA, USCG, AS DMWR, ASDOC, NOAA 

PIRO, NOAA OCM, Department of Transportation 

Maritime Administration

1. Evaluate the availability of existing data layers 

(e.g. shipping lanes, FADS, buoys).

2. Compare map of future desired and compatible 

uses from the Tasks above to existing shipping 

and FAD data.

Action 3. Identify areas that can be used for 

alternative transport to promote commerce via 

the ocean between villages if a disaster impacts 

usability of roads, boat ramps, and docks.

Maintenance of food supply is throughout the 

islands is critical to survival. Roads, boat ramps, and 

docks can be severely damaged during a disaster. 

Ensuring that alternative routes to move food and 

supplies around the island, such as identification of 

all boat ramps, critical infrastructure, and shipping 

lanes, even if just for alia or the ferry, around 

Tutuila and the Manu`a Islands can be critical to 

maintaining food supply. For example, having a 

route via the water already mapped in the event the 

road to Fagasa is destroyed or blocked can ensure 

the village of Fagasa can get food and supplies 

from other parts of the island. 

Agency Lead: AS DHS 

Partners: AS DPA, USCG, ASDOC Planning

1. Reference vulnerability assessments noted 

in above objectives. Ensure food supply lines 

are included.

2. Use the NOAA Coastal Hazards mapping 

tool to identify compatible areas of 

alternative transport.

3. Work with communities and stakeholders 

to identify desirable and undesirable 

locations for alternative transport within 

the compatible zones.
54 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Goal 2: Sustainable Ocean and Coastal Uses
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 55

Saienisi, Fa’amaumauga ma Metotia

Science, Data, and Tools

Scientifically supported data and information are 

the foundation of the Plan. The PI RPB supported 

the collection of spatial data and other information 

to inform the interjurisdictional coordination actions 

that the Plan has described in Chapters Two and 

Three. At the same time, several actions identify 

additional science, research, and traditional and 

local knowledge that is needed to more effectively 

address regional ocean management priorities. For 

example, some data that seems readily available 

is only available via request. Satellite Automatic 

Identification System (otherwise known as SAIS) 

data, the only vessel traffic data available for 

American Samoa, is only accessible via request 

to a commercial entity or to the USCG Navigation 

Center. Further, that data can then only be used by 

the requestor, not pushed to a public interface like 

Marine Cadastre. The Plan also identifies additional 

baseline data and information needed to better 

characterize the region’s marine environment and 

socioeconomic conditions, as described below. 

Spatial tools can include the ability to identify 

current uses, identify potential natural disaster 

impact zones, and determine from that how 

potential new uses may be integrated into a village’s 

coastal or nearshore area. An example that ties 

ocean planning to disaster preparedness is the 

proposal to install a dock on the east side of Pago 

Pago Harbor, as suggested by the village of A`ua, 

which could provide access via boat from the east 

side of Tutuila to the west side, where the hospital 

and most supply stores are located should a natural 

disaster prevent access via the road. 

This chapter describes the spatial data and data 

tools developed with support from the Data Team 

and other partners that are accessible through the 

Pacific Islands Regional Marine Mapper (PIRMP). 

ASOPT members intend to use the tools described 

in this chapter to inform their activities under 

existing authorities, as described in Moving ahead 

under existing authorities above.

American Samoa and the Pacific Islands 

Regional Marine Planner

The PIRMP is a key resource that informs ocean 

planning in American Samoa and throughout the 

Pacific Region. The PIRMP provides a centralized, 

public location for interactive ocean mapping and 

information focused on the Pacific region. It enables 

federal, territorial, and village-level decision makers, 

as well as the public, to visualize and analyze ocean 

ASOPT members from ASDOC, NOAA OCM, and DPA discuss 

relevant maps and data for ocean planning. © Sarah Pautzke

While in port, local longline crew members 

conduct regular maintenance on the vessel 

and fishing gear. © Nate Ilaoa
56 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Science, Data, and Tools

resources and human use information such as 

fishing grounds, recreational areas, shipping lanes, 

habitat areas, and infrastructure sites. Maps created 

on the PIRMP can illustrate interactions among a 

wide range of natural features and human activities.

The PIRMP was initiated by the Naval Postgraduate 

School with support from the PI RPB’s Data Team 

(Data Team) and in collaboration with other federal 

and regional partners. Individuals from the Data 

Team continue to provide input on its development, 

working closely with NOAA and BOEM, partners 

that operate and maintain the Marine Cadastre, 

which is an authoritative national scale online data 

repository and viewer. 

Marine Cadastre was selected to host the ocean 

planning data effort because it has the backing of 

federal agency resources to maintain the site into 

the future and does not require substantial up-front 

financial investment to develop, instead relying 

on personnel and technological resources already 

in place. Marine Cadastre and the Data Team 

worked closely with the ASOPT to determine the 

appropriate data layers for the territory of American 

Samoa, and subsequently worked with the ASDOC 

GIS team to provide data to the portal.

Overview and Summary of 

PIRMP Content

The PIRMP includes an online mapping tool and 

a data catalogue that offers access to myriad 

spatial data layers. The PIRMP serves as a central 

location where data previously housed in separate 

places can be viewed together and combined in 

ways that can be tailored to the viewer’s area and 

topics of interest. The PIRMP’s layers have been 

carefully selected and enhanced to inform the 

dialogue and decision making needed to advance 

this Ocean Plan’s goals and objectives, but not to 

provide an exhaustive catalogue of all the region’s 

spatial data or duplicate other online mapping 

resources. Many of the PIRMP’s layers were created 

with existing data developed by federal agencies 

and compiled by federal agencies, American 

Samoa, and universities, while some data were 

created specifically for the PIRMP with stakeholder 

participation and assistance. 

Mapping efforts have already been conducted by 

the NOAA Coral Reef Conservation Program. The 

results were 1) a use map for Pago Pago Harbor 

that identifies predominant commercial uses of 

the harbor, including cannery operations, docks, 

mooring locations, cruise ships, and the shipping 

lane, and 2) a mapbook for Fagaloa displaying 

locations of various coastal uses (Figure 30). 

An additional mapping exercise was conducted 

that acquired data regarding watershed-related 

issues and different types of fishing from Utulei to 

Fatumafuti.

During the ASOPT’s listening sessions, villages and 

targeted stakeholder groups were asked if there 

were any specific future development or use of 

Miranda Foley (ecoLogic) and Faimealelei Anthony Allen detail where a boat ramp could be sited in A'ua during a 

listening session. © Sarah Pautzke
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 57

their coastal and ocean waters they would like to 

see or not see. These were documented through a 

mapping exercise. Through combining the output 

of this action with actions within this plan and 

incorporating the data into the PIRMP, permittees 

could have a framework within which to plan 

their proposed action, including which agencies 

they need to engage, villages and stakeholders 

they need to engage, and the environmental 

conditions associated with their actions. It is up to 

the permittee to work with agencies to determine 

probable suitability of the use – this is intended to 

inform, not approve, actions. Further participatory 

GIS studies that document uses throughout 

American Samoa are needed to fully inform the 

PIRMP. The mapping exercise done in the listening 

sessions provided broad brush-stroke data that 

would need further refining to be more useful but 

provides helpful examples of the data’s usefulness.

On page 58 is an example of how data can be 

overlaid (Figure 31a). The hotspots for uses, based 

on cool to hot color coding, can be overlaid with 

proposed future uses to show where potential use 

conflicts could occur, and where a potential future 

use may have greater chance of success if needed 

infrastructure is already present (e.g. putting in a 

boat ramp where the road already exists instead of 

needing to build the road too). 

These potential new uses (Figure 31b) could then 

be overlaid with a flood hazard map to determine 

the suitability for a new use. Using the example of 

a new boat ramp or dock on the west side, Poloa 

versus Leone: comparisons between sites can be 

made such as assessing existing infrastructure, what 

uses may conflict or work with the new proposed 

use, and what potential for natural hazard damage 

might exist. Is it preferable to build a dock in Poloa 

because of the reduced risk of damage compared 

to Leone, or instead build a different type of 

dock in Leone because the road to Poloa can be 

dangerous? These are the types of decisions that 

can be made when the appropriate data is acquired 

(and with the necessary stakeholder engagement 

and village buy-in). 

Number of 

Recreation Uses

2

3

4+

1

Surfing

Snorkeling Scuba

Paddling Sailing

Swimming

raphic products derived from the American Samoa Coastal Use Mapping project conducted in

in July 2012. Data was obtained through a participatory GIS workshop designed to gather spatial

coastal and near shore marine environment in the greater Pago Pago Harbor region known as

nted a wide range of backgrounds relating to marine resources: resource stewards, fishermen,

tural resource managers, educators, cultural practitioners, scientists, village residents, and local

was undertaken as a partnership between multiple agencies including NOAA Pacific Islands

A Pacific Services Center (PSC), American Samoa Department of Commerce Coastal Management

rican Samoa Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources (DMWR) and American Samoa

gency (ASEPA). For more information regarding the American Samoa Coastal Uses Mapping

rielle Levine - Arielle.Levine@noaa.gov.

Figure 30. 2012 Fagaloa coastal uses.
58 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Science, Data, and Tools

Figure 31a. Tutuila human uses density map generated from the 2017 listening sessions.
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 59

Figure 31b. Composite flood hazard maps. 
60 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Science, Data, and Tools
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 61

Fa’atinoga o le Ta’iala

Plan Implementation

Plan implementation means following through 

on actions and other commitments in the Plan. 

Effectively doing so requires clear roles and 

responsibilities, a process for Plan updates 

and amendments, coordination, resources, 

and performance monitoring and evaluation.

American Samoa government, the federal 

agencies, and the WPFMC participated in the 

planning process and have roles that reflect their 

authorities and jurisdictions. These participants 

played important roles by serving on the ASOPT 

and PI RPB. For many specific actions, they 

brought expertise and perspectives as managers 

of important ocean and coastal resources under 

their jurisdictions, enhancing coordination through 

the planning process, and ensuring that key 

stakeholders and the public are engaged. 

While E.O. 13840 eliminated the federally-led ocean 

planning mandate and the RPBs, Federal agencies 

are still required to coordinate and collaborate 

on ocean-related matters and specifically, to 

modernize the acquisition, distribution and use of 

ocean-related data. When this Plan is complete 

and finalized, the ASDOC will assume responsibility 

for its implementation and maintenance. Federal 

agencies may be invited to participate at the ocean 

planning table during Plan updates, but ASG owns 

the Plan henceforth.

ASOPT Roles

Specifically, the ASOPT is responsible for 

ensuring that:

• Progress is made in implementing the actions 

articulated in the Plan.

• Federal agencies and local stakeholders are 

engaged in implementation of the Plan and any 

future updates or amendments to the Plan. 

• Expertise and support from within and outside of 

local governmental entities are being leveraged.

• A work plan for Plan implementation is 

developed and updated over time to reflect 

new information and evolving context.

• Call public meetings of the full ASOPT at 

least annually and develop agendas for 

those meetings. 

Alia are small, double-hulled catamaran multipurpose boats. They are used for commercial 

and subsistence fishing (pelagic trolling and 

bottomfishing) or for transportation like the 

vessel seen in this photo taken at Ta'u Harbor.

© Nate Ilaoa

ASOPT members from ASDMWR and the WPFMC review 

objectives and actions in this plan.
62 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Plan Implementation

• Organize ASOPT or executive sessions to discuss 

administrative topics as needed. 

• Monitor, evaluate, and report to ASG and 

federal partners, and the public on progress in 

implementing the Plan.

Note: The Lead Agency of the ASOPT will schedule 

periodic meetings or workshops with ASOPT 

member agencies to review progress of the actions 

and tasks, and relate those to progress of the 

objectives. The lead agency upon Plan completion 

will be ASDOC.

American Samoa Governance

Unique to American Samoa, traditional village 

governance is a powerful dynamic of governance 

with far reaching influence on all aspects of society. 

Coordination between agencies in the absence 

of engaging traditional governance leaders is a 

common impediment to overall resource and land 

use management. 

American Samoa governance responsibilities 

are layered and shared between government 

elected officials and traditional governance. The 

direct relationship between overall governance 

and the traditional land tenure system (lands 

and surrounding ocean), if effectively woven 

with elected officials, is key to effective coastal 

resource management and initiatives. With that in 

mind, this ocean planning effort seeks to improve 

ocean and coastal management through improved 

integrated agency decision-making to enable 

reductions in use conflicts, increased access to data, 

enhanced information for permitting and ease of 

development, and mitigation of impacts to natural 

resources.

The ASG agencies on the planning team provide a 

critical connection to existing agency frameworks 

related to stakeholder engagement. These 

frameworks include agency outreach programs, 

PNRS and the PNRS guide book, ASDOC Zoning, 

and American Samoa Chapter 26 Coastal 

Management Regulations (ASAC Chapter 26).

The PNRS is a streamlined land use permit system 

that integrates the permitting requirements of 

each of the territorial agencies concerned with 

environmental management (Appendix 11) out to 3 

nm offshore. The public must apply for a land use 

permit for any type of construction or structure. 

The PNRS staff are responsible for overseeing 

and guiding the land use permit applications, 

determinations of major and minor projects, site 

visits, review of project, coordination with applicant, 

holding public hearings if necessary, and approving 

or denying permit applications. These permits fall 

into two categories – minor and major projects. 

Minor projects are generally reviewed within a fiveday period, while major projects require a more 

technical approach and is reviewed within a 

45-day period:

Minor Projects:

• Constructing a single family home;

• Constructing Samoan cultural facilities including: 

fautasi boat houses, faletalimalo or guest house, 

and fale leoleo or guardhouses;

• Constructing structures or extensions to existing 

non-commercial structures that do not exceed 

one hundred twenty (120) square feet; and

• Repair existing structure

Major Projects:

• Creating, expanding, or extending any 

commercial activity;

• Siting permanently or continually replacing 

intermodal containers or freezer container, 

including enclosing, connecting utilities, or any 
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 63

other permanent action which exceed 

thirty (30) days;

• Siting major facilities;

• Landfilling, excavating, disposing of dredged 

materials, mining, quarrying;

• Dredging or filling marine or fresh waters, point 

source discharging of water or air pollutants, 

ocean dumping, or constructing artificial reefs.

The PNRS reviews land use permits, considering 

public health, safety, and environmental concerns. 

This is done through a series of rules for buildings 

which are assessed during the permitting process. 

A building might not be permitted if it is proposed 

to be built in hazardous area along the shoreline 

or in an area of environmental concern such as 

along stream banks. If buildings are built against 

the rules, there is enforcement authority within the 

PNRS to charge fees or to issue a stop order for 

noncompliance with the regulations. 

Federal Governance

The majority of ocean space in the American Samoa 

regional planning area is under Federal jurisdiction 

(including, exclusively, the EEZ from 3 nm offshore 

to the outer extent of the EEZ which has boundaries 

with other countries or 200 nm), and much of the 

data for that area is collected and managed under 

Federal authority. The June 2018 Executive Order

mandates that federal agencies coordinate activities 

regarding ocean-related matters, promote the lawful 

use of the ocean by agencies, facilitate economic 

growth of coastal communities and promote ocean 

industries, use best available ocean-related science 

and knowledge to inform decisions, and facilitate 

collaboration regarding ocean-related matters. For 

these reasons, federal agencies have a significant 

role in collaborative actions described in the Plan. 

Plan Updates

The ASOPT is committed to an adaptive approach 

that accounts for changing information, ecological 

and socioeconomic context, and other dynamics. 

For this reason, the ASDOC and other members of 

the ASOPT will work together to routinely review 

implementation progress, assess the need for Plan 

updates or amendments, and make updates or 

amendments as needed.

The Plan will be reviewed comprehensively at 

least once every five years to assess whether 

amendments are needed. Plan amendments 

will include a public engagement process. Plan 

amendments will also provide an opportunity 

to review and incorporate the results of Plan 

performance.

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

PNRS Application Process

DOC (Pick-up and drop-off of completed application

Internal Review (Minor or Major determination)

Public Notice

Site Visit

Final Review

Website: http://doc.as.gov/resource-management/ascmp/pnrs/
64 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

American Samoa Department of Commerce. 2003. Territorial General Plan.

Caplan, J., J. Buika, C. Cunningham, G. Foss, L. Fiatoa, S. Maga, and 

A. Afalava. 2015. Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan for the Territory of 

American Samoa. A Jamie Caplan Consulting LLC report to the 

American Samoa Governor’s Office and American Samoa Territorial 

Hazard Mitigation Council. 

Clark, Athline, T. Smith, A. Adams, R. Kinchla, P. Potter, D. Savercool, T. 

Bushnell, T. Fee, and D. Sjoblom. 2012. American Samoa Tsunami Study. 

A Report prepared by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Honolulu District.

Final Recommendations of the Interagency Ocean Policy Task Force (July 

19, 2010) can be found here: https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/files/

documents/OPTF_FinalRecs.pdf

Lyon Associates, Inc. 2001. Port Master Plan 1999-2019 Final Report. 

Department of Port Administration American Samoa Government. 

South Pacific Tourism Organisation – Research and Statistics Division 

(SPTO). 2017. American Samoa International Visitor Survey. Prepared for: 

American Samoa Visitors Bureau. 

SSRI. 2003. American Samoa Ocean Resource Management Plan. 

Prepared by the Social Science Research Institute, University of Hawai`i 

at Mānoa for American Samoa Department of Commerce Coastal 

Management Program.

Thero, Cate, M. Kiner, and B. Crump. 2010. American Samoa Tourism 

Master Plan. Prepared by: Resort Consulting Associates, LLC, Kiner 

Design Group, and Studio 89 International. Prepared for: Department of 

Commerce, American Samoa Government.

Utrilla, P., Mazo, C., Sopena, M. C., Martínez-Bea, M., & Domingo, R. (2009). 

A palaeolithic map from 13,660 calBP: engraved stone blocks from the 

Late Magdalenian in Abauntz Cave (Navarra, Spain). Journal of Human 

Evolution, 57(2), 99-111.

Van Tilburg, Dr. Hans. 2007. American Samoa Maritime Heritage Inventory. 

Pacific Islands Regional Office – Office of National Marine Sanctuaries. 

NOAA.

References
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 65

Appendices
66 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Appendix 1

Deeds of Cession

Cession of Tutuila and Aunu'u

Whereas the Governments of Germany, Great Britain, and of the United 

States of America have on divers occasions recognized the sovereignty 

of the government and people of Samoa and the Samoan group of 

islands as an independent State; and whereas owing to dissensions, 

internal disturbances and civil war, the said governments have deemed 

it necessary to assume the control of the legislation and administration 

of said state of Samoa; and whereas the said governments have on the 

sixteenth day of February, by mutual agreement, determined to partition 

said State; and whereas the islands hereinafter described being part of 

the said State have by said arrangements amongst the said governments, 

been severed from the parent State, and the Governments of Great Britain 

and of Germany have withdrawn all rights hitherto acquired, claimed or 

possessed by both or either of them by treaty or otherwise, to the said 

islands in favor of the government of the United States of America; and 

whereas for the promotion of the peace and welfare of the people of 

said islands, for the establishment of a good and sound government, and 

for the preservation of the rights and property of the inhabitants of said 

islands, the Chiefs, rulers and people thereof are desirous of granting unto 

the said government of the United States full powers and authority to 

enact proper legislation for and to control the said islands, and are further 

desirous of removing all disabilities that may be existing in connection 

therewith and to ratify and to confirm the grant of the rule of said islands 

heretofore granted on the 2nd day of April, 1900.

Now know Ye:

1. That we, the Chiefs whose names are hereunder subscribed by virtue 

of our office as the hereditary representatives of the people of said 

islands, in consideration of the premises herein-before recited and 

for divers good considerations us hereunto moving, have ceded, 

transferred, and yielded up unto Commander B. F. Tilley of the U.S. 

“Abarenda” the duly accredited representative of the Government 

of the United States of America in the islands hereinafter mentioned 

or described for and on behalf of the said government. All these 

the islands of Tutuila and Aunu`u and all other islands, rocks, reefs, 

foreshores and waters lying between the 13th degree and the 15th 

degree of south latitude and between the 171st degree and 167th 

degree of west longitude from the meridian of Greenwich, together 

with all sovereign rights thereunto belonging and possessed by us, to 

hold the said ceded territory unto the Government of the United States 

of America; to erect the same into a separate District to be annexed to 

the said Government, to be known and designated as the District 

of “Tutuila”.

2. The Government of the United States of America shall respect and 

protect the individual rights of all people dwelling in Tutuila to their 

lands and other property in said District; but if the said Government 

shall require any land or any other thing for Government uses, the 

Government may take the same upon payment of a fair consideration 

for the land, or other thing, to those who may be deprived of their 

property on account of the desire of the Government.

3. The Chiefs of the towns will be entitled to retain their individual control 

of the separate towns, if that control is in accordance with the laws of 

the United States of America concerning Tutuila, and if not obstructive 

to the peace of the people and the advancement of civilization of 

the people, subject also to the supervision and instruction of the said 

Government. But the enactment of legislation and the general control 

shall remain firm with the United States of America.

4. An investigation and settlement of all claims to title to lands in 

the different divisions or districts of Tutuila shall be made by the 

Government.

5. We, whose names are subscribed below, do hereby declare with truth 

for ourselves, our heirs and representatives by Samoan Custom, that 

we will obey and owe allegiance to the Government of the United 

States of America.

In witness whereof we have hereunto subscribed our names and affixed 

our seals on this 17th day of April, 1900 A.D. 

Fofo and Aitulagi Sua and Vaifanua

Tuitele of Leone x Pele x
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 67

Fofo and Aitulagi Sua and Vaifanua

Faiivae of Leone x Mauga x

Letuli of Iliili x Leiato x

Fuimaono of Aoloau x Faumuina x

Satele of Vailoa x Masaniai x

Leoso of Leone x Tupuola x

Olo of Leone x Soliai x

Namoa of Aitulagi x Mauga x

Tuanaitau of Pavaiai x

Lualemana of Aasu x

Amituagai of Ituau x

The foregoing instrument of Cession (pages 1, 2, and 3) was duly signed 

by Leoso in the presence of, and at the request of, the Chiefs and 

Representatives of the Division of Fofo and Aitulagi, and by Pele in the 

presence of and at the request of the Chiefs and Representatives of 

Sua and Vaifanua in Tutuila in conformity with Samoan customs as to 

signatures to documents, in my presence at Pago Pago on the 17th day of 

April, 1900 A.D., immediately prior to the Raising of the United States Flag 

at the United States Naval Station, Tutuila.

E.W. Gurr

Barrister of the Supreme Court of Samoa.

Cession of Manu'a Islands

Whereas, the Islands of the Samoan Group lying east of Longitude 171 

degrees west of Greenwich were, on the 16th day of February, 1900, by 

arrangement between the Governments of Germany, Great Britain, and the 

United States of America, placed under the protection of the Government 

of the United States of America;

And Whereas, on the 17th day of April, in the year 1900, the Islands of 

Tutuila and Aunuu, being portion of said Islands of the Samoan Group lying 

east of Longitude 171 degrees west of Greenwich, were, by the chiefs and 

rulers of Tutuila and Aunuu, ceded to and placed under the sovereignty 

and protection of the United States of America, and the government of 

said Islands was thereupon assumed by said United States;

And Whereas, in administering said government, the Islands hereinafter 

described, known as the Manu’a Islands, being the remainder of said 

Islands of the Samoan Group lying east of Longitude 171 degrees west 

of Greenwich, have been under the protection of the United States of 

America, and controlled and governed in conjunction with the islands of 

Tutuila and Aunuu;

And Whereas, at the request of Tuimanu’a, the King of Manu’a, and his 

chiefs, the United States Flag was, on the 15th day of June, 1900, raised 

on the Islands of Tau, of the Manu’a Group, for the purpose of granting 

protection to the people of the Manu’a Islands;

And Whereas, Tuimanu’a and his chiefs, being content and satisfied 

with the justice, fairness, and wisdom of the government as hitherto 

ad¬ministered by the several Commandants of the United States Naval 

Station, Tutuila, and the officials appointed to act with the Commandant, 

are desirous of placing the Islands of Manu’a hereinafter described under 

the full and complete sovereignty of the United States of America to 

enable said Islands, with Tutuila and Aunuu, to become a part of the 

territory of said United States;

Now Know Ye: (1) That we, Elesare Tuimanu’a and the Chief whose names 

are hereunder subscribed, in consideration of the premises hereinbefore 

recited, have ceded, and, by, These Presents Do Cede, unto the 

Government of the United States of America, All Those, The Islands of the 

Manu’a Group, being the whole of eastern portion of the Samoan Islands 

lying east of Longitude 171 degrees west of Greenwich and known as Tau, 

Olosega, Ofu, and Rose Islands, and all other, the waters and property and 

adjacent thereto, together with all sovereign rights thereunto belonging 

and possessed by us.

To hold the said ceded territory unto the Government of the United 

States of America, to erect the same into a territory or district of the said 

Government.

(2) It is intended and claimed by these Presents that there shall be no 

discrimination in the suffrages and political privileges between the present 

residents of said Islands and citizens of the United States dwelling therein, 

and also that the rights of the Chiefs in each village and of all people 

concerning their property according to their customs shall be recognized.

Done at the place of Faleula in Tau, in triplicate, in both the Samoan and 

the English languages, on this 14th day of July, in the year 1904, A.D.
68 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

King of Manu’a

and

District Governor Tuimanu’a

County Chief of Fitiuta Tufele

County Chief of Ofu Misa

County Chief of Olosega Tuiolosega

County Chief of Faleasao Asoau

District Clerk P. Logoai

United States Naval Station, Tutuila

District Court of Tutuila 

 No.5 

Held at Tau, in Manu’a 

I Hereby Certify that on this 16th day of. July, in the year 1904, before me, 

Edwin W. Gurr, Judge of the District Court of Tutuila, personally appeared 

Tuimanua, the Governor of Manu’a; Tufele, County Chief of Fitiuta; Misa, 

County Chief of Ofu; Tuiolosega, County Chief of Olosega; Asoau County 

Chief of Faleasao; and Logoai, District Clerk of Manu’a; personally known 

to me to be the Tuimanua, high chiefs, and representatives of the people 

of the Islands of Manu’a, who, each for himself, acknowledged that he 

executed the attached Instrument of Cession, and affixed his seal thereto, 

freely and voluntarily, for the uses and purposes therein mentioned.

In Testimony Whereof I have caused the seal of the court to be affixed this 

16th day of July in the year 1904.
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 69

Appendix 2

National Level Documents and PI RPB Documents Links

National Level Documents

National Ocean Council

https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/administration/eop/oceans

Executive Order 13547

https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/files/documents/

2010stewardship-eo.pdf

Final Recommendations of the Ocean Policy Taskforce

https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/files/documents/

OPTF_FinalRecs.pdf

Marine Planning Handbook

https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/sites/default/files/microsites/

ostp/final_marine_planning_handbook.pdf

Implementation Plan

https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/sites/default/files/national_

ocean_policy_implementation_plan.pdf

Executive Order 13840 Regarding the Ocean Policy to Advance the 

Economic, Security, and Environmental Interests of the United States

https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2018/06/22/2018-13640/

ocean-policy-to-advance-the-economic-security-and-environmentalinterests-of-the-united-states

Guidance for Implementing E.O. 13840

https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/

uploads/2017/11/20180628EO13840OceanPolicyGuidance.pdf

Pacific Islands RPB Documents 

All of the following documents can be located by contacting the Regional 

Administrator for NOAA NMFS PIRO.

Charter for the Pacific Islands RPB

Development of the PI RPB Charter was one of the first acts of the PI RPB. 

The Charter described the purpose, membership, roles, and process under 

which the PI RPB operated. It was finalized in September 2014 and was 

signed by all PI RPB member entities. 

Pacific Islands RPB Ocean Planning Stakeholder Guide|

The Pacific Islands Regional Planning Body (PI RPB) was dedicated to 

developing a coastal and marine spatial (CMS) plan that reflected input 

and participation from interested organizations and individuals. The PI 

RPB routinely solicited comments and participation as an important 

component of its activities. Opportunities ranged from commenting 

on draft documents to participating in workshops, attending PI RPB 

meetings, and attending meetings of PI RPB members’ agencies. This 

guide identified likely stakeholders for engagement, when and where 

engagement could occur, and various avenues for engagement. 
70 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Appendix 3

Foundational Documents of the PI RPB 

(Invite and Nomination Letters)
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 71
72 | American Samoa Ocean Plan
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 73
74 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Appendix 4

Listening Session Participants

Meeting Date Name Affiliation

March 2016 Mac Aveina WPFMC

Afoa L.S. Lutu American Samoa Legislature

Etenauga Lam Yuen Lutu Community

Louise R. Azarvand Community

Joan G. Holland Community

Jason Jaskowiak American Samoa Power Authority

Charles Warren Samoa Tuna Processors

Nicholas King Pacific Energy SWP, Ltd

Fatima Sauafea-Leau NOAA PIRO

Matthew Brown USFWS

Brian J. Donahue USCG - District 14

Kelley Tagarino ASCC and University of Hawai`I 

Sea Grant

John Goeke American Samoa Paddlers Association

Michael Tosatto NOAA PIRO

Lauren Nutter Udall USIECR

Keneseli Lafaele ASDOC

Joan Malik US Navy - Pacific Fleet

Ma'a Maea Fisherman

Francino Gaisoa TMO Wholesale

Esther Fiatoa Communnity

Marie A. Alailima Attorney

Atuatasi Lelei Peau NOAA NMSAS

Peter and Margie Crispin Pago Pago Game Fishing Association 

(PPGFA)

Joseph Paulin NOAA NMSAS

Cary Gann Starkist Samoa

Archie Soliai Starkist Samoa

Elinor Lutu-McMoore NOAA NWS

Christinna Lutu-Sanchez Tautai O Samoa Longline 

Fishing Association

James L. McGuire Community

Meeting Date Name Affiliation

September 2017 Craig Miller RDA Lawfirm

Nate Ilaoa WPFMC

Ian Moffitt Recreation

Erika Radewagen Recreation

John Goeke Recreation

Hideyo Hattori Recreation

Tanner Stiehl USCG - District 14

Luse Fomai SPS/Hamburg 

Marlene Lopesi Polynesia Shipping Services Inc.

Herman Gebauer Polynesia Shipping Services Inc.

Tony Grey Sunrise Oil / TSA

Latone Grey TSA

Nicholas King Pacific Energy

Chris King DPA

Atuatasi Lelei Peau NOAA NMSAS

Samuel Ioka Ale Meleisea Tualauta County; Representative

Savelio Grohse A`ua

High Talking Chief Afu A`ua

Lio A`ua

Senator Tilo A`ua

Lafi A`ua

High Talking Chief Ponasuia 

Fale A`ua

Maulupe A`ua

Faimealelei Anthony Allen A`ua; Representative

Salesi Talauega A`ua

Nate Ilaoa WPFMC
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 75

Meeting Date Name Affiliation

October 2017 Teleaai Simolea Fitiuta

Keli Tagaloa Fitiuta

Tata Logoleo Fitiuta

Aokuso Aokuso Jr. Fitiuta

Tuese Tuese Fitiuta

Tei Aluese Fitiuta

Saena Moliga Ta`u

Irae Vasega Ta`u

Telea Petelo Ta`u

Iti Numera Ta`u

Sofima Tevaseu Ta`u

Pau Young Ta`u

Aufotu Niumata Ta`u

Kalio Ta`u

Logoleo Ta`u

Clint Filoali'i Ofu

Malaepule Moliga Ofu

BJ Moliga Ofu

Tautala Pao Ofu

Samoa Ofu

William Pedro Ofu

Pita Ili Ofu

Iafeta Tanu Ofu

Vaiolo Taliga Ofu

June 2018 Faufano Autele Fisherman

Tony Langkilde ASDOC 

Alex Sise NOAA OLE

John Taeleifi Port

Silane Taeleifi LBUSD

Pete Faamuli Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and 

Intermediate Maintenance Facility

Regina Faamuli Kocks

Easter Galo Carter DGX Cargo

Liavaa S. Moevao Treasury / Customs

Amy B. Letuli Clipper Oil American Samoa

Meeting Date Name Affiliation

Peter Eves AS DMWR

Isabel Hudson Hamburg Sud

Va’a Uitualagi Samoa Pacific Shipping

Archie Soliai StarKist Samoa

Chris King DPA

Herb Clarke Swire

Virgil Burton Swire

Pilivesburg Salanoa ASDOC

Fai’ivae Iuli A. Godinet Leone; Senator, 

American Samoa Legislature

Maiava Leota Leone

Matu’u Timo Leone

Fagaoatua D. Salavea Leone; Representative, 

American Samoa Legislature

Puleloto A. Tanuvasa Leone

Alataua Ropati Opa Leone; Aumaga (Village police)

Olotai U. Letuli Leone

Utagamamao T. Steffany Leone

Puleiava W. Salave’a Leone

L. Haili Ripley Leone

Filioali’i Toma Leone; Pulenu’u (Village Mayor)

Fepulea’i A. Ripley Leone

Salave’a Pale Leone

Taula Will Sword Recreational Fisherman

Chris Banse Recreational Fisherman

Pafuti Ana Tupua Recreational Fisherman

Vera Talamoa Recreational Fisherman

Brian Peck Recreational Fisherman

Ian Price Recreational Fisherman

Russ Cox Recreational Fisherman, PPGFA

John Goeke Recreational Non-consumptive, ASPA

Erika Radewagen Recreational Non-consumptive

Michael McDonald Recreational Non-consumptive, ASDOC

Tony Langkilde ASDOC
76 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Appendix 5 

Stakeholder Engagement

An important requirement for successful ocean planning is stakeholder 

engagement. The ASOPT committed to engaging stakeholders during 

development of this ocean plan, as well as during future actions 

associated with this plan. To that end, the ASOPT engaged stakeholders, 

including targeted stakeholders such as commercial fishermen and port 

users, as well as communities and other local agencies.

In addition, the Udall Foundation’s US Institute for Environmental 

Conflict Resolution contracted with CONCUR to produce a stakeholder 

assessment (Executive Summary in Samoan; included as the next 

appendix) that was developed through contract by CONCUR. CONCUR 

provided the following seven recommendations. These recommendations 

assume that the stakeholder assessment was developed in conjunction 

with the kick-off meeting, and that the ASOPT had a large amount of 

resources with which to engage stakeholders. However, the stakeholder 

assessment was developed a year after the start of the ocean planning 

process, and the ASOPT had very limited resources with which to engage 

stakeholders. Despite that, the ASOPT made every feasible effort to 

engage stakeholders at appropriate points throughout the process. How 

the ASOPT responded to them is included in the actions associated with 

the recommendations. 

1. Further develop and articulate clear and consistent leadership to 

deepen credibility of the Ocean Planning process

Recommended Actions ASOPT Response

Establish clear leadership for the 

ASOPT among American Samoa 

government agencies so it is 

apparent to all stakeholders that 

there is strong local commitment 

to the planning process, and 

the willingness and capacity to 

implement the ASOP

Director Henry Sesepasara was 

selected by the ASOPT and 

the Governor to lead the ocean 

planning efforts. He liaises 

with the ASG agencies, federal 

agencies, and stakeholders.

Recommended Actions ASOPT Response

Clarify the roles of federal 

agencies and regional partners 

in the ASOPT as supporting 

and contributing members to 

what should be a locally-driven 

planning process

ASOPT received clarification from 

CONCUR that “regional partners” 

means ASG. As such, the ASOPT 

described the roles of the ASG 

and federal agencies in this effort. 

AS DMWR is leading the effort, 

thus it is locally-driven.

2. Further refine and communicate a clear and compelling purpose for 

the American Samoa Ocean Plan.

Recommended Actions ASOPT Response

Thoroughly examine participant 

territorial and federal agencies 

roles and responsibilities relative 

to ocean planning and marine 

resource management and 

conduct a gap analysis to identify 

ocean planning needs not yet 

sufficiently addressed

While a gap analysis was 

not conducted to identify 

ocean planning needs not 

sufficiently addressed already, 

the agencies identified actions 

for each objective within which 

responsible agencies were 

identified, both at the federal and 

jurisdictional level.

Draft a clear and succinct 

Statement of Purpose for the 

ASOP that defines the needs 

that it is intended to address in 

relation to existing American 

Samoan and federal plans and 

programs. Ideally, this statement 

should support and advance the 

priorities and responsibilities of 

each involved agency

The ASOPT developed a 

Statement of Purpose that is 

found in the introduction to this 

plan. 
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 77

Recommended Actions ASOPT Response

Clearly communicate the ASOP 

purpose to stakeholders

The purpose of the ASOP was 

articulated at each stakeholder 

engagement session and 

consistently during outreach 

efforts as well.

3. Develop and use a range of engagement formats and tools 

for outreach.

Recommended Actions ASOPT Response

Determine the most important 

points during the planning 

process for engaging different 

groups of stakeholders (or 

stakeholder representatives), at 

stages when there is sufficient 

content or issues to react to, and 

latitude to use the input received

This was an important point for 

the ASOPT which was articulated 

by the ASOPT well in advance 

of the stakeholder assessment 

reinforcing the action. The 

ASOPT determined that clear 

points of input included after 

refining its vision, its goals and 

objectives, and then drafting the 

plan.

Appoint a subcommittee of 

ASOPT members with extensive 

experience conducting outreach 

in different communities and 

with a variety of stakeholders 

in American Samoa. This 

subcommittee should 

recommend the timing, format, 

and other important details of the 

ASOP stakeholder engagement 

effort

The ASOPT discussed when 

to engage stakeholders during 

the ASOPT meetings. The 

team that led the extensive 

listening sessions throughout the 

communities included the ASOPT 

lead (Director Sesepasara, 

DWMR), ASOPT member 

Chris King (Deputy Director, 

Port Administration), Miranda 

Foley (ecoLOGIC, process and 

engagement consultant), and 

Sarah Pautzke (Coordinator, PI 

RPB). Timing and format was 

determined by the team.

Recommended Actions ASOPT Response

Consider identifying one or 

two representatives from each 

major stakeholder group to help 

determine the best time and 

approach to use when engaging 

the stakeholders they represent

The stakeholder engagement 

team worked with the respective 

stakeholder groups to ensure 

the times for engagement were 

appropriate and logistically 

sound.

Engage Samoan language and 

cultural experts, as appropriate 

for specific needs to plan and 

conduct stakeholder engagement

Director Sesepasara and Deputy 

Director King served as the 

cultural experts and translators 

during the listening sessions.

Emphasize engagement formats 

likely to be effective and avoid or 

limit the use of engagement and 

outreach formats that would be 

least effective. Formats likely to 

be less effective are large ‘public 

meetings’, and emailed or online 

surveys

After receiving the stakeholder 

assessment from CONCUR, the 

ASOPT ceased utilizing online 

surveys for feedback. The ASOPT 

focused on meeting with specific 

stakeholder groups in smaller 

settings.

4. Work with both the Office of Samoan Affairs and key resource 

agencies to engage villages.

Recommended Actions ASOPT Response

OSA already has representation 

on the ASOPT. Strengthen the 

ASOPT’s relationship with OSA 

leadership and provide regular 

updates to the pulenu’u meetings 

about the ASOP planning process 

as it unfolds

The relationship with OSA was 

strengthened through Director 

Sesepasara’s engagement with 

OSA leadership. The Director also 

provided updates at pulenu’u 

meetings as the planning process 

continued.

Convene a special workshop, or 

series of workshops, for pulenu’u 

on the key issues to be addressed 

in the ASOP

This is an action that the ASOPT 

could not fulfill due to funding 

limitations. As such, Director 

Sesepasara provided inputs to 

the pulenu’u, but the ASOPT 

could not provide a training.
78 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Recommended Actions ASOPT Response

Structure outreach to pulenu’u 

geographically by convening 

subcommittees of key leaders 

from adjoining villages that share 

a reef or other ocean resources 

and help them focus on specific 

problems and solutions. As a 

further step, these sub-regions 

could then choose one pulenu’u 

representative to serve as a 

liaison to the ASOPT

Outreach to the pulenu’u is 

through Director Sesepasara 

during pulenu’u meetings. Due 

to time constraints, engagement 

at a geographical level to 

focus on specific problems as 

subcommittees was not feasible. 

Plan and convene a Territorywide workshop series on critical 

ocean issues to present the 

latest information in a concise 

format, and demonstrate joint 

commitment on the part of 

multiple agencies

The ASOPT determined that this 

could be an important step to 

fulfill needed information under 

the actions of Goal 1, but did 

not have the resources to do a 

workshop to inform the ocean 

plan itself. 

5. Frame compelling incentives to territorial and federal government 

agencies, villages, commercial interests, educators, scientists, and 

recreationalists to fully engage in the Ocean Planning process.

Recommended Actions ASOPT Response

Frame ocean issues to link 

stakeholder engagement to 

widely recognized problems and 

potential solutions

The ASOPT sought to incorporate 

stakeholder feedback regarding 

ocean issues, including a 

predominant theme of upland 

pollution impacting the coastal 

area during large storms. 

Potential solutions to the issues 

were sought at local meetings.

Use the Findings from this 

Stakeholder Engagement Support 

Project to identify and focus on 

the specific major concerns of 

each type of stakeholder

This report and stakeholder 

engagement by the ASOPT 

identified a few major issues 

of concern. The ASOPT sought 

to address these issues for the 

stakeholder groups in the actions 

of the goals. 

Recommended Actions ASOPT Response

Ensure that successive outreach 

efforts build upon previous 

engagement with the same 

stakeholder groups

Outreach efforts were 

successively built upon each 

other throughout the Ocean 

Plan development with the same 

stakeholder groups, which were 

identified within the first couple 

months of the ASOPT inception.

Identify and reconfirm specific 

priorities and responsibilities 

of individual ASOPT member 

agencies as they relate to the 

implementation of the Ocean 

Plan

This plan identified individual 

agencies’ responsibilities as they 

relate to ocean activities in the 

various actions for Goals 1-3. 

Identify opportunities to leverage 

and build upon existing efforts by 

individual agencies through new 

inter-agency partnerships

Identify ways in which the Ocean 

Plan can be developed to help 

local agencies become more 

competitive for grant proposals. 

Communicate these advantages 

to local agencies and other 

stakeholders. Develop the Ocean 

Plan such that it positions local 

agencies well to compete for 

funding opportunities

The actions described under 

each goal provide agencies and 

other organizations support for 

their grant proposals. This has 

been and will be communicated 

to stakeholders and repeated to 

ASOP agencies.

6. Devise strategies to anticipate and overcome obstacles the 

Stakeholder Engagement Support team faced.

Recommended Actions ASOPT Response

Consider identifying trusted 

and familiar intermediaries to 

get reluctant stakeholders to 

participate

The ASOPT utilized trusted 

sources to encourage stakeholder 

and agency participation with a 

high degree of success.
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 79

Recommended Actions ASOPT Response

Build in sufficient time to conduct 

stakeholder engagement in 

Manu’a to account for delays and 

travel changes that may occur

Sufficient time was built in to 

conduct stakeholder engagement 

in Manu’a. Manu’a was visited 

three times during ASOP 

development.

Consider combining ASOP 

stakeholder engagement with 

other scheduled agency visits 

to Manu’a

Stakeholder engagement for 

the ASOP was combined with 

other agency visits, including 

AS DMWR’s need for fisheries 

feedback.

Plan and convene a Territorywide workshop series on critical 

ocean issues to present the 

latest information in a concise 

format, and demonstrate joint 

commitment on the part of 

multiple agencies

The ASOPT determined that this 

could be an important step to 

fulfill needed information under 

the actions of Goal 1, but did 

not have the resources to do a 

workshop to inform the ocean 

plan itself. 

7. Consider the use of a Joint Fact Finding (JFF) process to address any 

areas of significant technical disagreement and uncertainty in ocean 

and coastal resource planning.

Rationale: Joint Fact Finding (JFF) is methodology that brings diverse 

participants to the table in a neutral forum for sharing information and 

conducting evidence-based deliberations. JFF is a mediated process. Once 

assembled, participants formulate common questions and then seek to 

gather and interpret pertinent facts. JFF does this in a sustained manner 

rather than a one-off public meeting and through courteous, evidencebased debate. The discussions occur over an extended period of time and 

through a disciplined study structure that fosters collaborative discussions 

on science- intensive, politically sensitive matters. JFF is most appropriate 

when there are genuine disagreements over the technical and scientific 

impacts of actions. JFF processes are NOT appropriate when there 

are disagreements over personal, cultural, religious, or political beliefs 

underpinning actions.

JFF might be used as a part of the American Samoa Ocean Planning 

process to develop a common and scientifically robust understanding 

of various ocean planning issues. For example, our Team identified 

disagreement, misunderstanding or lack of information around a handful

 of issues, including:

• Status of various fish stocks

• Status of coral reefs and impacts of climate change

• Need for and impacts of sea walls

ASOPT Response: JFF is a valuable tool for addressing issues, such as the 

regulations regarding the Large Vessel Prohibited Area or the potential 

size shift of parrotfish. The ASOPT felt that it is a tool that would be 

better suited for addressing issues after the development of the Ocean 

Plan, potentially as a suggested action for a Goal, but is inappropriate 

during Ocean Plan development as the focus on the plan is working better 

together and what information is needed for ocean planning. 
80 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Appendix 6 

Stakeholder Assessment Executive Summary - in Samoan

’Oto’otoga O Le Ripoti Aloaia

A. Tala’aga Ma Le Autu O Le Poloketi Soosoo Tau’au a Sui Lagolago

O loo faagasolo se fuafuaga faataatia mo le sami o Amerika Samoa lea ua 

lua tausaga talu ona amatalia i lalo o le faamalu a le Komiti Fuafua a Itulagi 

o Atumotu o le Pasefika (Pacific Islands Regional Planning Body) (PIRPB). 

O lea vaega e Fuafuaina Sami o Amerika Samoa, e i lalo o le Komiti a itulagi, 

ma sa faavae ina ia atina’e ai le Fuafuaga o le Sami o Amerika Samoa mo le 

Teritori (American Samoa Ocean Plan)(ASOP). E aofia i le Vaega a Amerika 

Samoa sui o le komiti a Atumotu o le Pasefika ma isi sui faaopoopo mai 

Amerika Samoa ma matagaluega a le Feterale, o loo vaaia alaga‘oa o le 

sami ma ona galuega e aofia ai fefaatauaiga, faiga faiva, tulaga lelei o 

le siosiomaga, ma fuafuaga. Sa faatonuina e le ASOP ma le PIRPB lenei 

poloketi in ia faatautaia se su‘esu‘ega tuutuu i le loloto mo Sui Lagolago o 

loo iai naunautaiga i mataupu tau le Fuafuaga o le Sami i Amerika Samoa, 

ma tuuina mai ni faamatalaga i le ASOP. Sa faatupeina lenei poloketi i se 

foa‘i tupe mai le faalapotopotoga Faavae a Gordon ma Betty Moore ma 

pulea e le faalapotopotoga Faavae o le Udall i lona ofisa e feagai ma le 

Fofōina o Faafitauli tau le Si‘osi‘omaga (Udall Foundation’s US Institute for 

Environmental Conflict Resolution) (USIECR). 

O le ‘auga atoa o le poloketi aua Fuafuaga mo le Galulue Faatasi o Sui 

Lagolago, ina ia mafai e le ASOP ona galulue e faatāua le vaaiga, initeresi, 

atugaluga ma faautuaga mai vaega o loo faatautaia le Fuafuaga o le 

Sami i Amerika Samoa. O sui o le vaega faufautua e aofia ai le Susuga ia 

Keith Mattason (Managing Prinicipal a le CONCUR Inc., Berkley, Kalefonia) 

ma Keith Mattson (Peresitene, Keith Mattson, LLC, Honolulu, Hawai`i) o 

loo auiliilia ma faatalanoaina Sui Lagolago e aofia ai totino o le ASOPT, 

faauluuluga o alalafaga o motu o Tutuila ma Manu‘a, ma nisi o tagata e 

fia auai i le Fuafuaga o le Sami. Sa lagolagosua ma fesoasoani i le vaega 

Meredith Cowart mai le CONCUR faatasi ai ma le Auaunaga o Faaliliuga 

ma se tuualalo i ala e uia faaleaganuu mai ia Okenaisa Fauolo, Faatonu o 

le ofisa o Aoaoga ma Suesuega Samoa ma sui mai le Kolisi Tuufaatasi o 

Amerika Samoa. 

Sa faatautaia lenei Poloketi mo Fuafuaga mo le Galulue Soosootau‘au o Sui 

Lagolago mai le va o Fepuari ma Iuni, 2017 ma o loo aofia ai sini nei: 

1. Faamautu ia Autu ma Sini mo le Fuafuaga o Sui Lagolago

2. Faailoa avanoa ono maua ma ni pa puipui i le solo lelei o le galulue 

soosootau‘au ma Sui lagolago 

3. Saili finagalo o sui lagolago i faagasologa o fuafuaga o le sami.

Poloketi Soosoo Tau‘au a Sui Lagolago ma le Fuafuaga Faataatia ua 

Fautuaina mo le Fuafuaga tau le Sami o Amerika Samoa 

Stakeholder Engagement Support Project and Recommended Action Plan 

for the American Samoa Ocean Planning Process

Prepared by Scott McCreary, Ph.D., CONCUR Inc., Keith Mattson, President, Keith Mattson LLC and Meredith Cowart, Associate, CONCUR Inc.

Lipoti Faai ‘u Iulai 6, 2017 :: Final Report July 6, 2017
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 81

4. Atiina’e se Fuafuaga Faataatia mo Sui Auai ia iloga ona galulue faatasi e 

aloa‘ia sini ma faamoemoega o Fuafuaga o le Sami a le ASOPT.

O nei faamoemoega sa faataunuuina i ni fonotaga eseese ma ta‘ita‘i togia 

ma ē sa maua mai ai faamatalaga, ma faatalanoaga a vaega ma tagata 

ta‘ito‘atasi e 36.

B. Faaiuga Tāua Mai Soālaupulega Ma Faatalanoaga

Sa maua mai e i matou finagalo o sui lagolago mai talanoaga ma 

faatalanoaga faatulaga mai totino o le ASOPT, pulenuu ma isi ta‘ita‘i 

o alalafaga filifilia, ma sui mai mataupu tau faigā faiva ma e iai se 

naunauta‘iga i le autū. O se vaega o faai‘uga na maua mai, ua mae‘a 

ona faavasega i ‘autū i le pito i lalo. O nisi faamaumauga auiliili e maua 

i Vaega 4, 5, ma le 6 o le Ripoti. E tatau ona silafia o nei faamaumauga, 

o se tuufaatasiga tonu o faai‘uga sa alia‘e mai faatalanoaga eseese o Sui 

Lagolago, ma ē le’o tuuina atu o se atoaga o finagalo faaalia uma. 

Lamatiaga mo le Sami 

• O ni lamatiaga taatele ua matauina o le faalapisi, tafega mai sōloga, ma 

vai ua faalegaina mai suavai lafoa’i ma masini tāmea.

• Pa‘emā o ‘Amu o se tasi o lamatiaga, ae sa eseese finagalo pe faafia 

ona tupu ma le umi e aafia ai.

• Sa matou faalogoina finagalo eseese i le mataupu o le soona fāgota o 

i‘a. Fai mai faauluuluga o alalafaga e le’o tupu lea faafitauli i totonu o o 

latou nuu (e ese mai fagotaga nanā/faagaoi mai fafo), ae o faatalanoaga 

ma le malo ma Sui Lalolago o loo fai ma sui o vaega tetele e faatāuaina 

le mataupu, sa ripotia le matuā so‘ona fagotaina o gataifale.

• O le fagotaina faagaoi o nofoaga o faiga faiva i le gataifale o se tasi lea o 

faafitauli pito tugā na faailoa mai e nisi o alalafaga. 

• E ui sa aofia i faafitauli o le tuana‘i le faaaogaga o fanai‘a ma vailaau 

‘o‘ona e fagota ai, ae na faaalia e i latou sa faatalanoa le faaitiitia o lenei 

faafituali. E faapena fo’i le ripotia mai o otaota o pa puaa ua faaitiitia 

ona ua nofo malamalama tagata i aafiaga, ma ua faamalosia fo‘i 

tulafono o lea faafitauli.

• O nisi atugaluga sa faaalia e faatatau i suāuu ma kesi o loo masa‘a atu 

i le sami.

Mata‘ituina Suiga i le Si‘osi‘omaga o le Sami ‘ona o Suiga o le Tau

• Faatupula‘ia le tafia o nofoaga o le talafatai, ma ua tele naua matāfaga 

sa ripotia mai ua tafi‘esea ai nisi o nuu, faapea ai ma le faaleagaina soo 

ma le faaumiumi o le faaleagaina o ‘amu.

• Suiga o tulaga faitino ona o le suiga o le tau, e aofia ai le siitia o le 

mafanafana o le sami, maualuga o le sua a le tai, malolosi atu o galu 

fetafea’i, ma afā malolosi atu.

Atugaluga o Alalafaga mo le Maloloina ma tulaga lelei mo se taimi umi 

o Alaga‘oa o le Sami 

• O le tele o popolega i Sui Lagolago sa faatalanoaina aua Alagaoa o le 

Sami ma le Taua mo le Ola lelei i se Taimi umi e aofia ai:

• Tulaga ola o Amu

• Lapisi e o‘o atu i le sami

• Mafai ona tumau mo se taimi umi fagotaga o i’a mo 

Fefaatauaiga ma Kamupani I’a

• Maua pea le avanoa e fāgota ai i’a mo taumafataga aiga

• Tafia o le matafaga

• Otaota Lafoa’i mai Tane 

Taua mo le Tamaoaiga o Vaega o Faiga Faiva

• O ituaiga fagotaga faapisinisi e iai neti faapitoa ma laina uumi 

faimaunu, ma galuega a le Matagaluega o le Uafu o Pago Pago na 

faatulagaina o vaega tāua i le tulaga tau faiga faiva mo le tamaoaiga o 

Amerika Samoa.

• Sa faatulaga fagotaga i alia e feoloolo le taua 

• O Meli La‘upasese ma Faletalimalo sa faatulaga e itiiti atu lo latou tāua
82 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Fautuaga mo le Faiga o Fuafuaga o Sui Lagolago

• Na fautuaina e i latou mai alalafaga ma le lautele o sui lagolago le tatau 

ona galulue faatasi o le ASOPT ma le OSA le auai o pulenuu ina ia mafai 

ona ofi atu i saofaiga faifaai‘uga i alalafaga. 

• O isi fautuaga e aofia ai:

• Faatino galuega a nuu ma isi o matagaluega a le malo

• Faaitiitia fonotaga lautetele ( e pei o Fonotaga Resitala a 

le Feterale) 

• O Ekalesia ma Aoga o isi nei filifiliga faaopoopo mo le 

galulue faatasi

• Sailia ma galue ma isi e lagolagoina le fe‘au i vaega eseese 

o le atunuu

• Ia faamautinoa mea faaaogā ma faatalanoaga e faatino i le 

gagana Samoa pe a feagai ma potopotoga i le lotoifale. 

• Alo‘ese mai faiga faapulepuletutū i le faiga o faavae poo 

se porokalama

• Faataua aoaoga e faatatau i faafitauli ma fofō, ma 

faamalamalama pe faapefea ona fesoasoani fofo mo tupulaga 

o le lumana’i

Matagaluega e ta’ita’ia le Fuafuaga mo le Galulue Faatasi 

o Sui Lagolago

• Sa tele ina fautuaina le filifiliga o le DMWR e avea ma matagaluega 

talafeagai e ta’ita’ia le Galulue Faatasi o Sui Lagolago, ma le 

lagolagosua a le OSA ma le AS EPA

Tali faaopoopo mai Totino o le Fuafuaga o le Sami o Amerika Samoa

• O le tele o totino o le ASOPT sa ripotia mai o le lautele o le atunuu o loo 

iai le manatu sesē e lē muta alaga‘oa o le sami (e pei o i’a). Sa faaalia 

e nei totino o lenei ituaiga mafaufauga ua faaopoopo atu i le lē fiafia i 

tulafono a faalapotopotoga e manatu le lautele e lē mana’omia.

• I totonu o ofisa i le lotoifale, o le lē lava o le faatupega ma tagata 

faigaluega e taita‘ia mo se taimi umi le faamoemoe, ua avea ma tulaga 

e taofiofi ai le faatinoga o le Fuafuaga o le Sami. 

• O le Fuafuaga ASOP e tatau ona u‘unaia e ofisa o le malō o Amerika 

Samoa (nai lo le Feterale), ma le galulue faatasi ma le OSA ma 

faauluuluga o Nuu.

Manatu Faaopoopo mai Faaulululuga o Nuu

• E pei ona matauina, sa ripotia mai e nisi o faauluuluga o nuu, e le’i iai 

lava se matagaluega a le malo na fesiligia so latou finagalo e uiga i se 

Fuafuga o le Sami poo mataupu e fesoota’i ma le Fuafuaga o le Galulue 

Faatasi o Sui Lagolago.

• O le tele o nuu ua faatapulaa le fagotaina o le aau i tagata o nuu

• O loo matuā atugalu ē na faatalanoa mai Ofu ma Olosega i le tafi‘esea 

o matafaga ma lamatiaga e ono tula ‘i mai galulolo ma isi galu malolosi 

ma afā

• Sa faaalia e sui o le nuu o Ta’ū, latou te le’o moomia ni tulafono mai fafo 

poo tulafono faamalosia mai ofisa i le teritori ma le feterale. 

Tali faaopoopo mai isi Sui Lagolago

• Ua faailoa mai e nisi na faatalanoa o nisi tagata lautele atonu e le’o suia 

mai e pulenuu, ma o loo iai pea le moomia e aapa atu iai i nisi auala (e 

pei o le talosagaina o matai taua e faatalanoa popolega tau le sami ma 

o latou lava aiga).

• Sa matou mauaina le fautuaga malosi ina ia auai le Fono Faitulafono i 

faagasologa a le ASOP

• se tasi o finagalo e faapea, talu ai e aoga faiga Faapolenisia i le puipuiga 

o aau amu, e tatau i pulega o le taimi nei ona a’oa’o mai ia faiga.

• E toatele o loo nofo pogisa pea i aafiaga o gaoioiga a tagata taitoatasi i 

le sami. 

• E iai nisi sa faatalanoa na faailoa mai le lē lava o le faamalosiga o le 

tulafono i totonu lava o matagaluega a le malo.
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 83

C. Fautuaga/Fuafuaga O Le Galulue Soosootau’au O Sui Lagolago

E fitu fautuaga lautele ua matou tuuina atu i le ASOPT mo le galulue 

soosootau‘au ma Sui Lagolago, ma faatinoga ma‘oti i lalo o ia fautuaga. O 

loo ‘oto‘oto atu i lalo, ma faalautele auiliili atu i le Vaega 8 o lenei ripoti. E 

taua tele ona fai fuafuaga i Fautuaga 1 ma le 2 ae le‘i aga‘i atu i fautuaga o 

totoe. E ui ua tele se galuega ua faatino i le ASOP, e tatau ona faamalosia 

le faasologa o a latou lava fuafuaga i le lotoifale ae le‘i faaauaua le galulue 

soosootau‘au ma Sui lagolago. O fautuaga o totoe e tatau ona silasila 

iai o se tuufaatasiga o ni auala eseese. O nei fautuaga e taua tele a o se 

fesoasoani i le ASOPT ‘ia iloga ona galulue faatasi ma matagaluega o le 

malo o Amerika Samoa ma Faauluuluga tofia o alalafaga, ma e fautuaina le 

ASOPT ina ia taga’i toto’a iai i lona atoaga. 

1. Ia saga atiina’e ma faama‘oti taitaiga manino ma faamaoni ia atili 

aloa‘ia ai le Faagasologa o le Fuafua o le Sami. 

Galuega Fautuaina:

A. Faatulaga taitaiga manino mo le ASOPT i ofisa o le malo o Amerika 

Samoa ina ia manino i Sui Lagolago uma o loo tele se lagolagosua mai 

le lotoifale i le faatautaiga o le fuafuaga, ma le loto malie atoa ma le 

mafai ona faatino le ASOP.

B. Faamanino matafaioi o matagaluega a le feterale ma paaga tumaoti i 

le ASOPT e pei ona lagolagoina ma fesoasoani iai sui ina ia avea lea ma 

se poloketi mo le lautele. 

2. Faaleleia Atili ma faailoa se mafuaaga manino ma le faatosinaloto 

mo le Fuafuaga o le Sami o Amerika Samoa.

Galuega Fautuaina:

A. Ia matua’i iloilo lelei matafaioi o matagaluega a le teritori ma le feterale 

ma a latou tiute o loo fesoota’i ma le fuafuaga o le sami ma pulega o 

alaga‘oa o le sami ma faatautaia se suesuega ina ia iloa ai mea o loo 

moomia e le Fuafuaga o le Sami e le’o lava tapena iai. 

B. Tusia lelei se faamatalaga i le autu mo le ASOP e mafai ai ona auiliili 

vaega moomia o faamoemoe e tali atu iai e felata’i ma porokalama ma 

fuafuaga a le Feterale ma Amerika Samoa. E tatau i lenei faamatalaga 

ona lagolago ma faataua faamuamua ma matafaioi a matagaluega 

taitasi o loo auai.

C. Ia fesootai manino atu le faamoemoega o le ASOP i Sui Lagolago

3. Atiina’e ma faaaoga auala eseese ma metotia mo Faasoa i le 

Lautele

Galuega Fautuaina:

A. Faailoa vaega pito taua mo le auai o vaega eseese o sui lagolago 

(poo suitofia mo Sui lagolago), i vaega o loo mausali ma mataupu e 

talafeagai ai, ina ia faaaoga ai faamatalaga ua maua mai.

B. Filifili se komiti lagolago mo totino o le ASOPT o loo iai le poto masani 

e faatautaia ai galuega aua faasoa lautele i alalafaga o le atunuu ma 

nisi o Sui Lagolago eseese i Amerika Samoa. E tatau i le nei komiti ona 

fautuaina le taimi ma isi vaega taua o le Fuafuaga o le Galulue Faatasi a 

le ASOP.

C. Fautuaina le vaaia o se sui se to’atasi pe to’alua mai ia vaega o Sui 

Lagolago ina ia fesoasoani ma mata’ituina le taimi ma le auala lelei e 

faaaoga pe a fesoota’i ai ma sui lagolago o loo latou galulue faatasi.

D. Ia iai e tomai i le gagana ma aganuu Samoa, e talafeagai mo 

manaomia faapitoa e fuafua ma faatautaia fesootaiga ma sui lagolago.

E. Faatāua auala e iloga ona aogā ma ‘alo‘ese pe faaitiitia le faaaoga o 

metotia lē taua tele. O auala e faaleaoga tele e aofia ai ‘fonotagata 

lautele’ tetele, ma fesili e imeli pe faatumu i le initaneti. 

4. Soosootau‘au ma le Ofisa o Mataupu Tau Samoa ma Ofisa Tofia ia 

galulue ma alalafaga 

Galuega Fautuaina:

A. Ua iai sui o le OSA i totonu o le ASOPT. Ia faamalosia le vafealoai o ta‘ita‘i 

o le ASOPT ma ta’ita’i o le OSA ma ia fai ma tuuina tala lata mai i fono a 

pulenuu e uiga i le fuafuaga a le ASOP a o faagasolo.

B. Faia se aoaoga taua, pe faasolo ni vasega laiti, mo pulenuu e uiga i 

vaega taua e tatau ona faaalia i totonu o le ASOP.

C. Faatulaga faasoa i tua i pulenuu e fua i nofoaga o alala ai e ala i le fono 

o komiti lagolago o taitai tofia mai nuu felata‘i e faaaoga faatasi aau 

ma isi alagaoa o le sami ma fesoasoani iai e mataitū faafitauli maoti ma 
84 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

fofō e fo’ia ai. Mo se laasaga i le lumana’i, e mafai ona filifilia e nei vaega 

ma‘oti se sui o pulenuu e avea ma sooupu i le ASOPT.

D. Fuafua lelei ma faatino ni aoaoga mo le teritori i mataupu tugā o le 

sami e faailoa atu ai faamatalaga lata mai i se faatulagaga ma’oti, 

ma faatino aua le tonu ma tuuina mai komiti e tatau ona iai i ia 

matagaluega eseese.

5. Faatulaga ni mafuaaga faaootialoto a o ni taui faatosinaloto mo 

ofisa i le teritori ma le feterale, vaega tau pisinisi, faiaoga, saienitisi, 

ma ē i le faiva mo tagata tafafao ia matua ‘auai ai i le faagasologa o 

le Fuafuaga o le Sami.

Galuega Fautuaina:

A. Faatulaga mataupu tau le sami ia fesootai le galulue soosootauau i 

faafitauli iloga ma ni fofō e maua mai

B. Faaaoga faaiuga mai lenei Poloketi e faailoa ma aga‘i tonu ai i 

atugaluga sili mai Sui lagolago eseese. 

C. Ia mautinoa ona fesootai nisi faasoa mulimuli atu i taumafaiga ua 

mae‘a faataatia i vaega o sui auai.

D. Faailoa ma faamautū le faamuamua ma matafaioi a ofisa totino a le 

ASOPT e tusa ma le faatinoga o le Fuafuaga o le Sami. Faailoa avanoa 

e uunaia ma galueaiina ai taumafaiga o iai a ofisa taitasi e ala i le faiga 

faapaaga ma isi ofisa. 

E. Faailoa auala e mafai ai ona atinae le Fuafuaga o le Sami ia fesoasoani 

ai i ofisa i le atunuu e siitia o latou tulaga aua talosaga mo fesoasoani 

tau tupe. Faamatala atu na penefiti i ofisa i le lotoifale ma isi Sui 

lagolago. Atinae le Fuafuaga o le sami ia faatulaga lelei ai ofisa i le 

lotoifale e tauva mo avanoa tau faatupega.

6. Fuafua mo mea e ono alia‘e ma fo‘ia ia faafitauli e feagai ma le 

Vaega Lagolagosua a Sui Lagolago 

Galuega Fautuaina:

A. Taga‘i toto‘a i le faailoa o ni sooupu/faufautua faatuatuaina ma iloa e 

tagata ia maua mai loto o sui lagolago e le o auai.

B. Ia faatulaga ia lava le taimi e faatino ai le galulue faatasi ma sui o 

Manu’a aua ni suiga o taimi malaga e ono tula’i mai. 

C. Ia taga’i i le tuufaatasia o taumafaiga aua le galulue faatasi ma Sui 

lagolago mai Manu’a ma nisi asiasiga a ofisa eseese i Manu’a. 

7. Ia taga’i i le faaaogaga o le metotia Sailiga O Mea Faamaonia (Joint 

Fact Finding JFF) e tali atu ai i ni itu e matua feteenai ai ma le 

mautonu ai i fuafuaga tau alagaoa o le sami ma le talafatai. 

Auga o Aute: Joint Fact Finding (JFF) poo le Metotia e Saili ai Mea 

Faamaonia o se metotia e faatasia ai sui auai eseese i se faafaletui lē 

faaitu‘au e faasoa faamatalaga, ma faatino ni fetufaiga e faavae i pine 

faamau. O le JFF o se metotia e iai le tagata e faatautaia. A potopoto loa, 

ona faatulaga lea e sui auai fesili taatele ona galulue lea e saili ma faauiga 

mau faamaonia. E faatino faaauau lenei faiga e le JFF ae le o se fono se 

tasi mo tagata lautele, ma e faia i se faafinauga faaaloalo e faavae i mau 

faamaonia. E faatino felafolafoaiga i se vaitaimi e faaaoga ai se faatulagaga 

sailiili pulea e faataua ai le fetufaa’i i mataupu tupito faasaienisi, ma 

ma‘ale‘ale i le tulaga faaupufai o malo. E matua talafeagai le JFF pe a iai 

ni feeseeseaiga moni i aafiaga faatekinale ma le faasaienitisi o ni gaoioiga 

faatino. E LĒ talafeagai le JFF pe a iai feeseeseaiga tau tagata lava ia, 

faaleaganuu, faalelotu, poo talitonuga faapolitiki o laualuga i gaoioiga 

faatino. 

E mafai ona faaaoga le JFF o se vaega o le faagasologa o le Fuafuaga 

ASOP ia atinae ai se malamalama lautele ma faasaienitisi o mataupu tau 

le fuafuaga o sami. O se faataitaiga, na mafai ona tau atu la matou vaega i 

feeseeseaiga, lē malamalamaa‘i poo le le lava o faamatalaga e faatatau i nisi 

o mataupu e aofia ai:

• Tulaga o le aofaiga o i‘a eseese

• Tulaga o a‘au ‘amu ma aafiaga o le suiga o le tau

• moomia ma aafiaga o taligalu
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 85

Appendix 7

American Samoa Agencies, Federal Agencies, and Other Partners

Table 2. American Samoa Government agencies
86 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

X* = agency lead, x = partner 
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 87

Table 3. Organizations and Federal Agency Partners

X* = agency lead, x = partner 
88 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Appendix 8

Regulatory and Management Context

This appendix provides a summary of key Federal laws that regulate and 

manage marine resources and human activities that are most relevant to 

the implementation of the Plan, and generally describes the authorities of 

the jurisdiction and WPFMC.

Introduction

Geography and jurisdiction play a key role in the regulatory and 

management context for the PLAN. American Samoa Government’s 

(ASG’s) jurisdiction generally extends three nautical miles offshore. Under 

current law, Federal entities manage activities out to the boundary of the 

Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and ASG entities manage activities within 

their waters.

As described below, through the Federal Coastal Zone Management 

Act (CZMA), Federal actions outside a jurisdiction’s coastal zone, that 

have reasonably foreseeable effects on any coastal use (land or water) 

or natural resources of the coastal zone, are required to be consistent 

to the maximum extent practicable with the enforceable policies of a 

jurisdiction’s federally approved coastal management program. 

The following are informal descriptions of certain statutes and 

implementing regulations for the convenience of the reader. These 

descriptions are not intended as a complete statement of and do not 

substitute for applicable law or to establish the actual requirements of 

any regulatory program. These descriptions also are not intended as legal 

advice. The reader should refer to the statutes, regulations, and Federal 

Register for official program requirements. Any decisions or actions 

undertaken by any Federal agency or jurisdiction will be based on the 

applicable statutes, regulations, case-specific facts and circumstances, 

and case law. 

Federal Agencies

For the Federal agencies involved in regional ocean planning, there are 

several statutes and regulatory programs that govern activities in the 

ocean. Below is a summary of key authorities that address interests 

related to the Plan goals and objectives: 

AUTHORITIES RELATED TO DEVELOPMENT

Deepwater Port Act

The Deepwater Port Act authorizes and regulates the location, ownership, 

construction, and operation of deepwater ports in waters beyond the US 

State seaward boundaries, sets requirements for the protection of marine 

and coastal environments from adverse effects of such port development, 

and promotes safe transport of oil and natural gas from such locations. 

A deepwater port is generally defined as a fixed or floating manmade 

structure other than a vessel, or any group of such structures, that are 

used as a port or terminal for the transportation, storage, or further 

handling of oil or natural gas for transportation to or from any State. The 

Department of Transportation (DOT), through the Maritime Administration 

(MARAD), authorizes activities under the Act in close consultation with 

the U.S. Coast Guard, which was delegated responsibility to process 

applications, conduct environmental reviews (including initiating requests 

for coordination), and manage other technical aspects of the applications. 

The Act also provides for the governor of a State with “adjacent state” 

status to have a veto authority over a proposed project. (33 U.S.C. §1501 et 

seq.; 46 U.S.C. §2101 et seq.)

Energy Policy Act of 2005 

The Energy Policy Act authorizes BOEM to issue leases, easements, and 

rights of way to allow for renewable energy development on the OCS. The 

Act establishes a general framework for authorizing renewable energy 

activities, and requires that BOEM coordinate with relevant Federal 

agencies and affected State and local governments, obtain fair return for 

leases and grants issued, and ensure that renewable energy development 

takes place in a safe and environmentally responsible manner. BOEM 

promulgated regulations in 2009 that provide a detailed structure 

for implementation of the OCS Renewable Energy Program. Though 

American Samoa is not included in the Pacific OCS Region, this Act offers 

a helpful reference. (42 U.S.C. §13201 et seq)

Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act 

The Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 establishes 

programs to regulate ocean dumping, conduct ocean dumping research, 
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 89

and designate national marine sanctuaries. Title I, sometimes referred 

to as the Ocean Dumping Act, generally prohibits: 1) transportation 

of material from the United States for the purpose of ocean dumping; 

2) transportation of material from anywhere for the purpose of ocean 

dumping by US agencies or US-flagged vessels; and 3) dumping of 

material transported from outside the United States into the US territorial 

sea. A permit is required to deviate from these prohibitions. The standard 

for permit issuance is whether the dumping will “unreasonably degrade 

or endanger” human health, welfare, or the marine environment. The 

US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is authorized to issue permits for 

ocean disposal of dredged material applying standards developed by the 

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA; the Ocean Dumping Criteria) 

and subject to review and concurrence by EPA; EPA is authorized to 

issue permits for ocean disposal of other materials. EPA also designates 

appropriate disposal sites. (Major code sections at 33 U.S.C. §§1401-1445, 

16 U.S.C. §§1431- 1447f, 33 U.S.C. §§2801-2805)

AUTHORITIES RELATED TO ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW 

AND REGULATION 

Clean Water Act, Discharge of Dredged and Fill Material (Section 404)

Section 404 of the Clean Water Act prohibits the discharge of dredged 

or fill material into waters of the US without a permit. Such discharges 

may be authorized only when there is no alternative that is less damaging 

to the aquatic environment, and various other standards are met. The 

impact of dredged or fill material on the marine ecosystem is determined 

in consultation with Federal resource agencies that have subject-matter 

jurisdiction to evaluate potential impacts to resources under their 

jurisdictions (see below). An applicant must demonstrate efforts to 

avoid and minimize potential adverse impacts, and, where relevant, must 

provide compensation for any remaining, unavoidable impacts through 

activities to restore or create wetlands. EPA and USACE jointly administer 

the Section 404 program; permits are issued by USACE, except in New 

Jersey waters, where the State has assumed the program. (33 U.S.C. §1251 

et seq.)

Clean Water Act, Permits for Point Source Discharges of Pollutants 

(Sections 301, 402 and 403)

Discharges of pollutants from point sources to waters of the US are 

generally prohibited, unless authorized by a National Pollutant Discharge 

Elimination System (NPDES) permit. (See 33 U.S.C. §§ 1311(a) and 1342) 

NPDES permits impose limits on, and monitoring requirements for, such 

point source discharges. Many, but not all, States have been authorized 

to administer the NPDES program and issue the permits for point source 

discharges to waters under their jurisdiction, including the territorial 

seas extending three miles from shore. Where a State has not been so 

authorized, EPA issues the NPDES permits for point source discharges 

to the State’s waters. Furthermore, EPA issues the NPDES permits for 

discharges to waters seaward of the territorial seas for point sources, 

other than from a vessel or other floating craft being used as a means of 

transportation. Permits for discharges to waters under State jurisdiction 

(“internal” waters and waters of the territorial seas) must include 

requirements ensuring satisfaction of State water quality standards. In 

addition, any permits for discharges to the territorial sea, contiguous zone 

or the ocean must comply with EPA’s Ocean Discharge Criteria. (33 U.S.C. 

§§1311(b)(1)(C), 1341, and 1343)

Coastal Zone Management Act 

The CZMA promotes the sustainable development of the nation’s coasts 

by encouraging States and territories to balance the conservation 

and development of coastal resources using their own management 

authorities. The Act provides financial and technical assistance incentives 

for States to manage their coastal zones consistent with the guidelines 

of the Act. States with federally approved coastal management programs 

have the authority under the Act to review Federal actions that have 

reasonably foreseeable effects on the uses or resources of a State’s 

coastal waters for consistency with the enforceable policies of the 

federally approved coastal management program. Federal actions include 

Federal agency activities, certain Federal license or permit activities, 

BOEM OCS Plan approvals, and Federal funding to State and local 

governments for activities with coastal effects. (16 U.S.C. §1451 et seq.)

Endangered Species Act 

The Endangered Species Act (ESA) provides for the conservation of 

species that are endangered or threatened, and designated critical habitat. 

The US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) or NMFS determine the species 

that are endangered or threatened (“listed species”), designate critical 

habitat, and develop and implement recovery plans for listed species. 

Section 7 of the Act requires that Federal agencies consult with either 

USFWS or NMFS to ensure that any action authorized, funded, or carried 

out by an agency is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of 

a listed species or result in the adverse modification or destruction of 

critical habitat designated for such species. (16 U.S.C. §1531 et seq.)
90 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Magnuson-Stevens Act 

The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA) 

establishes national standards for fishery conservation and management 

in US waters. The Act created eight Regional Fishery Management 

Councils (including MAFMC) composed of Federal and State officials and 

both voting and non-voting members representing the commercial and 

recreational fishing sectors, and environmental, academic, and government 

interests that prepare and amend fishery management plans for certain 

fisheries requiring conservation and management. In addition to provisions 

that address fisheries science and management, the Act requires that 

fishery management plans identify and describe essential fish habitat 

(including adverse impacts on such habitat) and ensure the protection, 

conservation, and enhancement of essential fish habitat for each managed 

species. Federal agencies must consult with the National Marine Fisheries 

Service (NMFS) in the review of potential impacts of their actions on 

essential fish habitat when they authorize, fund, or undertake an action 

that may adversely affect essential fish habitat. In response, NMFS provides 

conservation recommendations to avoid, minimize, mitigate, or otherwise 

offset those adverse effects. The Act also requires Federal action agencies 

to consult with NMFS on any projects that are authorized, funded, or 

undertaken that may adversely affect essential fish habitat. NMFS also 

provides conservation recommendations to avoid, minimize, mitigate, or 

otherwise offset those adverse effects. (16 U.S.C. §1801 et seq.) 

Marine Mammal Protection Act

The Marine Mammal Protection Act provides for the protection of all 

marine mammals. NMFS and USFWS share authority under the Act. NMFS 

is responsible for the protection of whales, dolphins, porpoises, and seals. 

The Act prohibits, with limited exceptions, broadly defined takes to, or 

interactions involving, marine mammals. Exceptions can be made through 

permitting actions for “incidental” impacts from commercial fishing 

and other non-fishing activities, for scientific research, and for licensed 

institutions such as aquaria and science centers. NMFS can authorize 

incidental takes if it finds that such takes will have a negligible impact on 

the species or stock(s) and specifies conditions related to permissible 

impacts, mitigation, monitoring, and reporting. NMFS is required to consult 

with the Marine Mammal Commission in its decision making. (16 U.S.C. 

§1361 et seq.) 

Migratory Bird Treaty Act 

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act implements four treaties that provide for 

international protection of migratory birds. Under the Act, taking and 

killing of migratory birds is prohibited. USFWS regulations found at 50 CFR 

part 21 authorize the issuance of permits to take migratory birds. A number 

of migratory bird regulations authorize purposeful take for a variety of 

purposes, including bird banding and marking, scientific collection, bird 

rehabilitation, raptor propagation, and falconry. Consistent with USFWS’s 

longstanding position that the Act applies to take that occurs incidental 

to, and which is not the purpose of, an otherwise lawful activity, USFWS 

also has authorized incidental take by the Armed Forces during militaryreadiness activities (50 CFR 21.15) and in certain situations through special 

use permits described in 50 CFR 21.27. In most circumstances, including 

take that results from activities like wind energy development, USFWS 

addresses incidental take through the exercise of enforcement discretion. 

USFWS focuses its enforcement efforts under the Act on industries or 

activities that chronically kill birds and has historically pursued criminal 

prosecution under the Act only after notifying an industry of its concerns 

regarding avian mortality, working with the industry to find solutions 

and proactively educating industry about ways to avoid or minimize take 

of migratory birds. As a matter of law enforcement discretion, USFWS 

considers the extent to which a company or individual had complied 

with that guidance as a substantial factor in assessing any potential 

enforcement action for violation of the Act. (16 U.S.C. §§703-712)

National Environmental Policy Act 

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requires federal agencies 

to assess the environmental effect(s) of a proposed Federal action on the 

human environment prior to making decisions. Federal agencies analyze 

the potential environmental impacts of a proposed Federal action through 

a Categorical Exclusion, Environmental Assessment (EA), or Environmental 

Impact Statement (EIS). NEPA requires federal agencies to prepare an EIS 

if the proposed action is likely to have significant environmental effects. 

NEPA and its implementing regulations (40 CFR Parts 1500-1508) provide 

that development of an EIS include opportunities for public review and 

comment, consideration of a range of reasonable alternatives, and analysis 

of the potential impacts resulting from the alternatives. In addition, NEPA 

and its implementing regulations mandate coordination and collaboration 

among Federal agencies and direct Federal agencies to coordinate with 

States and Tribes. NEPA is administered by individual Federal agencies 

(most agencies have developed their own NEPA implementing procedures 

consistent with NEPA implementing regulations) in concert with guidance 

from the Council on Environmental Quality (42 U.S.C. §4321 et seq.). 

Under Section 309 of the Clean Air Act, EPA must review Environmental 

Impact Statements issued by other federal agencies and comment on 
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 91

the adequacy and the acceptability of the environmental impacts of the 

proposed action.

National Historic Preservation Act (Section 106) 

The National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) requires Federal agencies 

to take into account the effects of their undertakings on historic 

properties. Effects to districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects 

listed in or eligible for the National Register are considered; properties not 

listed on the Register are evaluated against the National Park Service’s 

published criteria, in consultation with the State Historic Preservation 

Officer (SHPO) and/or a Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO) and 

any federally recognized Indian Tribe that may attach religious or cultural 

importance to them. If an agency makes an assessment that its actions 

will cause an adverse effect, it initiates a consultation process that results 

in a Memorandum of Agreement that outlines measures that the agency 

will take to avoid, minimize, or mitigate the adverse effects. (16 U.S.C. 

§470 et seq.) 

National Marine Sanctuaries Act 

The National Marine Sanctuaries Act authorizes the Secretary of 

Commerce to designate discrete areas of the marine environment as 

national marine sanctuaries to protect distinctive natural and cultural 

resources. The primary objective of the Act is protection of sanctuary 

resources; a secondary objective is facilitation of all public and private 

uses that are compatible with resource protection. Regulations for 

management and protection of sanctuary resources are at 15 CFR Part 

922. Section 304 of the Act requires interagency consultation between the 

Office of National Marine Sanctuaries and Federal agencies taking actions 

that “may affect” the resources of a sanctuary. (16 U.S.C. §1431 et seq.)

National Park Service Organic Act of 1916 (as amended and 

supplemented) 

The National Park Service Organic Act of 1916 created the National Park 

Service (NPS) and directed NPS to manage National Park System units. 

The purpose of national parks broadly is “to conserve the scenery and 

the natural and historic objects and the wild life therein and to provide 

for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will 

leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations.” In the 

Mid-Atlantic, Fire Island National Seashore, Gateway National Recreation 

Area, Statue of Liberty, Governors Island and Castle Clinton National 

Monuments, and Assateague Island National Seashore are managed 

according to their enabling legislation, the National Park Service Organic 

Act of 1916 (as amended and supplemented), regulations at 36 CFR Parts 

1–7, and unit-specific management plans. (5416 U.S.C. §100101 et seq.) 

Ports and Waterways Safety Act 

The Ports and Waterways Safety Act provides for the establishment, 

operation, and maintenance of vessel traffic services, control of vessel 

movement, establishment of requirements for vessel operation, and other 

port safety controls. Specific to navigation, the Act requires that USCG 

conduct studies to provide safe access routes for vessel traffic in waters 

under US jurisdiction. In doing so, USCG considers all waterway uses to 

assess the impacts on navigation from a specific project, to periodically 

assess navigation safety for specific federally designated waterways, and 

to assess risk in a port, port approaches, or region of significance. (33 

U.S.C. §1221 et seq.) 

Public Interest Review 

The decision by USACE on whether to issue a permit under the Clean 

Water Act or Rivers and Harbors Act, above, is based in part on “an 

evaluation of the probable impacts, including cumulative impacts, of 

the proposed activity and its intended use on the public interest.” The 

review addresses a range of natural, cultural, social, economic, and other 

considerations, including, generally, “the needs and welfare of the people,” 

and balances the “benefits which reasonably may be expected to accrue 

from the proposal” against the “reasonably foreseeable detriments” in a 

way that reflects the “national concern for both protection and utilization 

of important resources.” A permit will be granted if the proposed project 

is not contrary to the public interest and meets other legal requirements. 

(33 U.S.C. §401 et seq.; 33 U.S.C. §1344; 33 U.S.C. §1413) 

Rivers and Harbors Act (Section 10) 

Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act prohibits the unauthorized 

obstruction of navigable waters of the US or on the OCS. Construction 

of any structure, excavation, or placement of fill in US navigable waters, 

including the OCS, is prohibited without a permit from USACE. (33 U.S.C. 

§403 et seq.) 

TERRITORY OF AMERICAN SAMOA 

The constitutional government of American Samoa has broad-based 

authority to manage and regulate activities that occur within its lands and 

waters. The numerous authorities and regulations that address resource 
92 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

protection and management can be generally categorized across the 

region as representing:

• Geographically-based authority to plan for and regulate most 

activities and resources in a particular area of the jurisdiction’s waters, 

such as the critical area or tidal wetlands. 

• Authority to protect certain resources or functions, such as 

identification and protection of submerged aquatic vegetation beds, 

fish refuges, or shipwreck sites. 

• Authority to regulate particular activities, such as prescribing, 

prohibiting, or limiting where, for example, energy development, 

dredge material disposal, aquaculture, fishing, or construction 

activities may be conducted.

As noted above, one additional authority is the Federal CZMA, 

administered by NOAA’s Office for Coastal Management and on a State 

or territory level through federally approved coastal management 

programs. As discussed above, the CZMA authorizes American Samoa’s 

Government to review Federal actions that have reasonably foreseeable 

effects to resources and uses of the AS’s coastal zone for consistency 

with its federally approved coastal management program. Under specific 

circumstances (defined by, and unique to, each State’s federally approved 

coastal management program), this may include State review of Federal 

actions that occur outside State waters. Data and information in the Data 

Portal will help inform AS review of Federal actions under the CZMA; 

Section 2.6 describes additional potential opportunities for State and 

Federal coordination. 

WESTERN PACIFIC FISHERY MANAGEMENT COUNCIL 

The WPFMC is one of eight regional fishery management councils 

(FMCs) created under the Fishery Management and Conservation Act 

(1976; now referred to as the MSA). The law created a system of regional 

fisheries management in which fisheries are managed at a regional level 

through participatory governance by knowledgeable people with a stake 

in fisheries management. The FMCs develop fishery management plans 

and recommend fishery management measures for the US EEZ to the 

Secretary of Commerce through NMFS. The decisions made by the FMCs 

are not final until they are approved or partially approved by the Secretary 

of Commerce.

As mandated by the MSA, the WPFMC consists of representatives from 

Hawai`i, American Samoa, Guam, and the Northern Marianas Islands. The 

Council is made up of 16 Council members with accompanying council 

staff and several advisory bodies. The Council process is a bottom-up 

process, emphasizing public participation and involvement of fisheries 

management at the local and community levels.
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 93

Appendix 9

Ecologically-rich Area Identification Draft Mid-Atlantic Framework

One of the overarching goals of the American Samoa Ocean Plan is 

to promote healthy ocean and coastal ecosystems and, specifically, to 

identify species’ habitats to protect, maintain and/or restore healthy ocean 

and coastal ecosystems and natural beauty (objective 1). Within Action 

1, spatially identify ecologically rich areas, including essential fish habitat 

and critical habitat, and increase the use of the information in agency 

decision making processes, the ASOPT determined that it wants to work 

with agencies to develop and refine a draft framework for identification of 

ecologically rich areas (ERAs). This effort would be led by AS DMWR with 

several assisting agency partners. 

The ASOPT suggests using the Mid-Atlantic’s Regional Ocean Action Plan1

(Mid-A ROAP) Appendix 4 as a guide. A series of steps are suggested 

to develop ERAs, starting with development of terms, references, and 

general components of ERAs. ERA development should be collaborative, 

iterative, and include opportunities for input from a variety of stakeholder 

communities and scientific experts. 

The Mid-A ROAP noted that ERAs that are not defined by persistent 

seafloor features are likely to move in space and time given the dynamic 

nature of the marine environment, and that human uses must be taken 

into account during ERA development. ERAs must be flexible, able to 

respond to new information.

The Mid-A ROAP suggests five components for characterizing potential 

ERAs. An ERA can meet one or more of the five components, but does 

not have to meet all to be established as an ERA. The five components 

are:

1. Areas of high productivity

2. Areas of high biodiversity

3. Areas of high species abundance, including areas of spawning, 

breeding, feeding, and migratory routes

4. Areas of vulnerable marine resources

5. Areas of rare marine resources

The following tables are specific to the Mid-A ROAP and provide a listing 

of some of the spatial marine life (Table 4) and physical and biological 

habitat data (Table 5) and suggest where each data set could fit within the 

ERA component framework. The tables would be amended in American 

Samoa to fit the data available for the territory. Considerations the MidAtlantic will make:

1. Each ecological resource and corresponding data set could fit into 

more than one ERA component.

2. Some ecological features could be determined to be inherently 

important over their full extent.

3. Some data sets characterizing an ecological feature may require 

determination and scientific review of a certain population threshold, 

areal extent, or time of year in order to be used to identify an ERA.

1

Guidance regarding EO 13840 states that the Mid-A ROAP is no longer controlling policy for federal agencies; however EO 13840 and the associated guidance were released long after the ASOPT 

determined it wanted to pursue ERAs. Thus, guidance from the Mid-A ROAP is included in this plan as an example for ASG to follow.
94 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Table 4. Spatial marine life data for ERA components identified by the Mid-Atlantic RPB.

Applicability of existing marine life 

spatial data to ERA components

Component 1: 

Areas of high 

productivity

Component 2: 

Areas of high 

biodiversity

Component 3: 

Areas of high 

species abundance

Component 4: 

Areas of vulnerable 

marine resources

Component 5: 

Areas of rare 

marine resources

Diversity of marine mammals, birds, fish, 

and sea turtles X

Multi-taxa species richness X

Marine mammal abundance core area, 

bird abundance core area, and fish 

biomass core area

X X X

Core areas for ESA-listed species X X

Core areas for species groups that 

are sensitive to particular disturbances 

or impacts

X

Table 5. Physical and biological habitat spatial data for ERA components identified by the Mid-Atlantic RPB.

Applicability of existing physical and 

biological habitat spatial data to ERA 

components

Component 1: 

Areas of high 

productivity

Component 2: 

Areas of high 

biodiversity

Component 3: 

Areas of high 

species abundance

Component 4: 

Areas of vulnerable 

marine resources

Component 5: 

Areas of rare 

marine resources

Rate of photosynthesis X

Chlorophyll a concentration X

Wetlands X X X

Shellfish beds X

Upwelling zones X X

Essential fish habitat X

Designated ESA critical habitat X X

Structurally complex seafloor habitat X X X

Habitat areas of particular concern X
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 95

There are also several longer term science needs to advance ERA identification in the Mid-Atlantic that can be used as examples of data that can 

be sought for American Samoa. Some are quickly available in the next one to two years, while others will take several years to produce. The tables 

below (Table 6 and Table 7) are examples gleaned from the tables in the Mid-A ROAP and do not include the full level of detail within the Mid-A ROAP 

Appendix 4.

Table 6. Longer term marine life and spatial data needs to relevant to ERA components in the Mid-Atlantic.

Longer term marine life science and 

spatial data needs relevant to ERA 

components

Component 1: 

Areas of high 

productivity

Component 2: 

Areas of high 

biodiversity

Component 3: 

Areas of high 

species abundance

Component 4: 

Areas of vulnerable 

marine resources

Component 5: 

Areas of rare 

marine resources

Multi-taxa metric of high marine life 

productivity X

Multi-taxa index of high biodiversity X

Identification and distribution of 

keystone species, foundational species, 

and ecosystem engineers

X

Distribution and abundance of benthic 

invertebrates X X

Identification and distribution of 

ecologically rare species X

Table 7. Longer term physical and biological habitat science and spatial data needs relevant to ERA components in the Mid-Atlantic.

Longer term physical and biological 

habitat science and spatial data needs 

relevant to ERA components

Component 1: 

Areas of high 

productivity

Component 2: 

Areas of high 

biodiversity

Component 3: 

Areas of high 

species abundance

Component 4: 

Areas of vulnerable 

marine resources

Component 5: 

Areas of rare 

marine resources

Identification and distribution of cold 

seep habitats X X X X

Identification and distribution of 

dynamic and persistent pelagic habitats X

Distribution of bivalve-dominated 

habitats X
96 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Appendix 10

Use Category Tables

ASOPT Use Categories for American Samoa

ADMINISTRATIVE LAYERS

Use Type Far (>3 mi) or Near (<3 mi) Activity

EEZ Far

Special Management Areas Near

Longline Vessel Prohibited Area Far

Monuments Near and Far

X X

FISHING AND VILLAGE-BASED ACTIVITIES

Use Type Far (>3 mi) or Near (<3 mi) Activity

Swimming Near

Spearfishing Near

Bottomfishing Far (seamounts) and Near

Trolling Far and Near

Handlining / bamboo pole / rod 

and reel fishing from shore

Near

Shoreline and nearshore 

gleaning/ gathering (<5 ft deep)

Near

Gill nets Near

Throw nets Near

Sand mining Near

Shoreline recreation Near

Coastal access points Near

Recreational fishing Far and Near

Use Type Far (>3 mi) or Near (<3 mi) Activity

Sports fishing tournaments

Coastal clean-ups Near

CULTURAL USES

Use Type Far (>3 mi) or Near (<3 mi) Activity

Culturally significant fishing (e.g. 

akule runs)

Near

Culturally significant sites / 

landmarks

Near

Fautasi races / Canoe races Near

Coastal access points Near

Fishponds Near

Fautasi tours Near and Far

Historic / culturally significant 

sites (e.g. Star Mound)

Near

RECREATIONAL, EDUCATIONAL, AND RESEARCH USES

Use Type Far (>3 mi) or Near (<3 mi) Activity

Recreational paddling Near

Swimming Near

Recreational diving Near

Recreational snorkeling Near

Surfing Near

Recreational sailing Near and Far

Jet skiing Near
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 97

Use Type Far (>3 mi) or Near (<3 mi) Activity

Educational activities Near

Research activities (university and 

local agency)

Near

Coastal access points Near

MARITIME COMMERCE AND NAVIGATION

Use Type Far (>3 mi) or Near (<3 mi) Activity

Shipping / commercial shipyard Near and Far

Cannery operations / fish 

processing

Near and Far

Transport by boat / ferry Near and Far

Fueling / Fuel transport Near and Far

Cruise ship operations Near

Yacht mooring Near

Coastal access points (terrestrial) Near

Shipwrecks Near

Commercial fishing Near and Far

Fresh fish export – off island Near and Far (seamounts)

Aquaculture and mariculture Near and Far

Navigational aids Near and Far

Anchorage grounds Near and Far

Ocean disposal sites Far

WPFMC Use Categories for American Samoa

These are the tables that were developed by the WPFMC for its 

mapping effort.

MARITIME COMMERCE AND NAVIGATION

Use Type Includes Excludes

Swimming Recreational, exercise Free diving, snorkeling, 

wading, SCUBA

Spearfishing

In-water use of spear 

(gun, 3 prong) for fish, 

crab, lobster and octopus 

>5 ft deep; commercial 

and non-commercial day 

and night activities

Shoreline / intertidal 

gathering <5 ft deep

Bottomfishing Fishing for bottomfish 

species (boat-based)

Nets, fishing for nonbottomfish species, spear

Trolling Trolling with pole and line 

(or handline) from a boat

Shore-based fishing, 

bottomfishing

Handlining / 

bamboo pole 

/ rod and reel 

fishing from 

shore

Shore-based fishing with 

handline, bamboo pole, or 

rod and reel Trolling, boat-based 

fishing, bottomfishing

Shoreline and 

nearshore 

gleaning/ 

gathering (<5 ft 

deep)

Intertidal and shallow 

water gathering of 

(most) invertebrates 

including shellfish, crab, 

sea cucumbers, octopus 

(from shore), seaweed <5 

feet deep

In-water diving for fish, 

lobster, octopus, and 

invertebrates (>5 ft deep); 

palolo gathering
98 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Use Type Includes Excludes

Culturally 

significant 

fishing and 

other activities

Palolo, atule fishing with 

lau, i’asina, fishing for 

other culturally significant 

species or culturally 

significant fishing events, 

fishing using enu (trap); 

fautasi racing

Commercial fishing, 

non-culturally significant 

activities

Gill nets Use of gill net All other types of nets

Throw nets Throw net Gill nets

Sand mining

Mining sand and coral 

rubble* from coast and 

nearshore

Shoreline 

recreation

Picnicking, organized 

sports, recreational 

activities

Commercial activities, 

use of shore as transit to 

marine area

Coastal access 

points

Access routes / points to 

coast

Areas where coast is 

inaccessible

Shipwrecks Known sites of shipwrecks

Ocean disposal 

sites Far

COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL HARBOR ACTIVITIES

Use Type Includes Excludes

Shipping / 

commercial 

shipyard

Shipping of supplies / 

equipment to and from 

island, storage of shipping 

materials

Fish transport and 

processing, transportation 

of people

Cannery 

operations / 

fish processing

Structures and vessels 

associated with the 

cannery and processing 

of fish

Fish for local consumption 

or not to be canned

Transport by 

boat / ferry

Ferry and boat-based 

transportation

Fishing boats, shipping of 

goods

Use Type Includes Excludes

Fueling / Fuel 

transport

Locations associated with 

fueling boats, transport of 

fuel for island

Transport of people, 

transport of fish or goods

Cruise ship 

operations

Transit and docking areas 

for cruise ships, areas of 

heavy cruise ship tourism 

use

Non-cruise ship passenger 

transit, non-cruise ship 

tourism activities

Yacht mooring Mooring locations for 

yachts

Mooring for fishing and 

other boats

Coastal access 

points

Access routes / points to 

coast

Areas where coast is 

inaccessible

Shipwrecks Known sites of shipwrecks

RECREATION AND RESEARCH/EDUCATION

Use Type Includes Excludes

Use Type Includes Excludes

Recreational 

paddling

Individual or group use of 

kayak, outriggers, or other 

paddle-powered vessels; 

for fun or competition, 

fautasi racing

Motorized boating, use of 

kayak or paddle-boat for 

fishing

Swimming Recreational, exercise Free diving, snorkeling, 

wading, SCUBA

Recreational 

diving

SCUBA diving (not for 

the purpose of fishing or 

gathering), shore- and 

vessel-based

Research oriented diving, 

SCUBA spear, extractive 

activities, diving for 

professional reasons

Recreational 

snorkeling

Snorkeling, freediving 

(not for the purpose of 

fishing or gathering), 

shore- and vessel-based

Spearfishing and 

extractive activities, 

research activities, 

snorkeling for professional 

reasons

Surfing Surfing, boogie-boarding
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 99

Use Type Includes Excludes

Recreational 

sailing

Use of sailboat, yacht 

for recreation and transit 

purposes

Use of sailboat or yacht 

for fishing

Jet skis Use of jet skis Non-jet ski motorized 

vessels

Educational 

activities

Locations of education 

and outreach activities 

for school groups and the 

general public

University / agency 

research sites

Research 

activities 

(university and 

local agency)

Locations use for research 

and monitoring of natural 

resources on island

Recreational diving and 

snorkeling

Coastal access 

points

Access routes / points to 

coast

Areas where coast is 

inaccessible
100 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Appendix 11

PNRS Board and Its Respective Review Functions

PNRS reviews permits and votes on projects based on each agencies 

jurisdiction. The voting members and their review functions are 

outlined below:

American Samoa Department of Commerce

• Special Management Areas, Wetlands, and Coastal Hazards. 

Please refer to ASAC Title 26 Chapter 2 for more details. 

American Samoa Historic Preservation Office

• Historic Preservation and Special Management Areas

• American Samoa Department of Public Works

• Special Management Areas, Shoreline Development, Coastal Hazards, 

Slope Erosion, Major Facility Siting, Unique Areas, and Building 

Design. Please refer to ASAC Title 10 for more details. 

American Samoa Environmental Protection Agency

• Special Management Areas, Shoreline Development, Slope Erosion, 

Major Facility Siting, Water Quality, Drinking Water Quality, Air Quality, 

and Unique Areas. Please refer to ASAC Title 24 for more details. 

American Samoa Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources

• Special Management Areas, Shoreline Development, Fisheries 

Management, Slope Erosion, Reef Protection, Water Quality, Marine 

Resources, and Unique Areas. Please refer to ASAC title 24 Chapter 3 

for more details. 

American Samoa Power Authority

• Special Management Areas, Major Facility Siting, Power, Water, and 

Wastewater. Please refer to ASAC Title 15 Chapter 1 for more details. 

American Samoa Department of Health

• Public Health, Food Safety, and Pollution. Please refer to ASAC Title 25 

for more details. 

American Samoa Parks and Recreation

• Special Management Areas, Major Facility Siting, Recreation and 

Shoreline Access, Agricultural Development, and Unique Areas. 

Please refer to ASAC Title 18 for more details. 
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 101

Appendix 12

Ocean Plan Input from Stakeholders

The following tables contain the input that was received regarding the American Samoa Ocean Plan (Plan), and how the ASOPT addressed it.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017: COMMUNITY AND STAKEHOLDER GROUP LISTENING SESSION

Item Feedback Action ASOPT Took

Goal 1: Healthy ocean and 

coastal ecosystems Add “watershed”

The ASOPT further articulated its footprint of the Plan, confining language 

to “ocean and coastal” only. However, watershed was added in a list of 

descriptions.

Goal 2: Sustainable ocean and 

coastal uses

Funded, not just planned The ASOPT agreed, but did not alter the goal.

Need clear responsibilities of agencies The ASOPT agreed. Agency responsibilities were assigned at the task level.

Upgrade infrastructure

Upgrading infrastructure is beyond the scope of this plan, but planning for it 

is not with respect to spatial planning. It is incorporated throughout Goal 2’s 

actions and tasks.

Goal 1 and 2

Switch the order

The ASOPT understood that uses could go first in an ocean plan regarding 

uses of the coastal and ocean environment, but put forth that uses could not 

be sustainable if the environment was not healthy first and foremost.

Goal 3: Promote Fa’a Samoa

Put Samoans in charge of actions

The ASOPT was hesitant to add this type of language to the ocean plan, which 

is for consumption by all residents of American Samoa, as well as local and 

federal agencies.

Introduce traditional ocean uses to 

youth at an early age.

The ASOPT agrees that this is important. However, this is done on a local level. 

The relevance of the ocean plan to this suggestion is ensuring the traditional 

ocean uses spatial footprint is maintained so that the uses can still exist.
102 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Item Feedback Action ASOPT Took

Goal 1, Objective 1: “Manage 

species and habitats to 

maintain and/or restore 

healthy ecosystems and 

natural beauty.”

Add “protect” The ASOPT agreed, adding “protect” before “maintain.”

Understand the federal and 

ASG boundaries to help with 

understanding Fono and local culture

The ASOPT added to its requested list of data layers the ASG and federal 

boundaries, as well as actions and tasks related to further defining boundaries. 

Areas that are prohibited will help 

with awareness

The ASOPT stated that its aim is to map those prohibited areas so that people 

know where they are.

ASDOC CMP worked with villages 

to talk about issues (e.g. dynamite 

fishing)

Previous efforts by ASG and federal agencies are referenced in this ocean plan 

and are noted for building upon in the actions and tasks.

Protect spawning areas from 

encroaching This is an action for AS DMWR, but was not incorporated into this ocean plan.

Enforcement is key The ASOPT understands that enforcement can be lacking, and as such, there 

are actions associated with improved enforcement.

Goal 1, Objective 2: Prevent, 

eliminate, and/or mitigate 

land-based and marine 

sources of pollution

Bring federal fines back to American 

Samoa The ASOPT did not incorporate fines into the Plan.

Think about EPA, permits, sewer lines

ASEPA has been involved with the ASOPT and development of the ocean plan. 

The agency understands the concerns from the communities. Sewer lines are 

part of the non-point source pollution affecting the coastal and ocean waters 

within this objective.

Identify places with new problems This is part of the actions and tasks associated with this objective.

Integrate into action plans that 

enforce pollution

The ASEPA is responsible for enforcing pollution standards, including working 

with other agencies. The agency understands its responsibilities within the 

objectives of this plan.

Get village/pulenu’u involved in long term.

After the rains, pulenu’u work with 

villages

The ASOPT did not incorporate this item into its actions. However, it 

understands and documented in the implementation chapter the cultural 

structure of communication.

Ties to land increase pollution 

prevention

The ASOPT understands the importance of tying people to their land to 

improve pollution prevention, however this is not incorporated into the ocean 

plan.

Survey visa holders regarding trash; 

provide awareness training The ASOPT liked this idea and has passed it along to ASEPA.

This is a good objective, but how do 

we “mitigate”?

The ASOPT aims to fulfill this objective through completion of the actions and 

tasks.

Regulations already cover pollution 

prevention for businesses The ASOPT understands that ASEPA already has regulations. 
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 103

Item Feedback Action ASOPT Took

Goal 1, Objective 3: Account 

for ocean ecosystem changes 

and increased risks.

Add docks so that areas around the 

islands have access to the port and 

hospital

Docks were added to Goal 2 regarding uses.

Ensure bridges can withstand flooding 

streams Bridges were added to Goal 2 regarding uses.

Stream sedimentation is a result of 

ecosystem changes and runoff Stream sedimentation was kept in Goal 1.

FEBRUARY 2017 PI RPB FEEDBACK

Item Feedback Action ASOPT Took

Goal 3: Promote Fa’a Samoa The PI RPB suggested making this 

Goal 1

Instead, the ASOPT elevated it from a goal to a guiding principle. The actions 

of the original goal were moved to actions under Goal 2.

JUNE 2018 STAKEHOLDER FEEDBACK

Item Feedback Action ASOPT Took

Goal 1 Analyze nursery habitats for yellowfin 

tuna as well as other habitats for life 

stages of species of importance

A task to analyze habitats for life stages of species of interest was added to 

Goal 1, Objective 1, Action 1.

Objective 2: add “spatially plan” This language does not fit well so was not added.

Objective 2: include uplands because 

it is a main source of pollution

Uplands are implied, although not specifically mentioned because of the 

geographic focus of the plan. Different programs address these issues and 

many of those programs were mentioned in the write up.

Objective 2: animal carcasses are 

a danger to the cleanliness of 

waterways and the ocean

Language incorporated into the section description.

Coastal use maps should be 

generated for pre and post tsunami 

events to determine if coastal use 

changes in response to the event

Added language to Goal 2 description.
104 | American Samoa Ocean Plan

Item Feedback Action ASOPT Took

Goal 2 Ensure sea walls and revetments are 

included as necessary infrastructure A sentence adding infrastructure was added to Goal 2, Objective 2, Action 1.

Add language regarding illegal fishing 

and enforcement

Mapping of illegal fishing locations and of enforcement capacity was added to 

Goal 2, Objective 1, Action 4.

Add language regarding recreational 

and commercial fishery gear conflict

Language describing gear conflict mitigation was added to Goal 2, Objective 1, 

Action 2.

Better describe the recreational and 

charter fishing

Recreational and charter fishing were described better in the Recreational 

Uses section of the introduction to Goal 2.

Describe the Longline Vessel 

Prohibited Area (LVPA)

The LVPA was added as a spatial management tool to the introduction of 

Goal 2 in the Fishing and Village-based Uses under the description of 

commercial fishing.

Objective 1: ID vulnerable areas that 

may need protecting with respect to 

coastal uses and development

This is a potential outcome with the identification of ERAs, but the ASOPT did 

not want to determine protection areas through this plan. Protection areas are 

developed and established through ASG and federal action.

Objective 1: The WPFMC and NMFS 

could partner by identifying spatial 

strategies for sustainable fisheries, 

which also provides opportunities for 

enhanced recreational fishing that 

could increase tourism and improve 

the economy

The ASOPT will continue to look for new opportunities to support sustainable 

fisheries strategies using spatial tools. Specific recommendations for 

implementation will be passed along to ASDOC.

Objective 3: add “as related to coastal 

and ocean uses” Language added.

Objective 3: Look to village council 

policies regarding traditional values 

and knowledge

Language added.

Objective 4: add “and ocean users” Accepted.

Objective 5: Refine to say “local 

food security” and add “at all water 

depths”

The ASOPT did not accept to keep the objective more broad.

Objective 5: Recreational fishermen 

do not sell their fish (it could be 

considered “cultural fishing” because 

the fish are given away)

This is noted by the ASOPT but not incorporated.
American Samoa Ocean Plan | 105

Cite as: American Samoa Department 

of Commerce. Planning Division. 2018. 

American Samoa Ocean Plan 2018 - 

For the Spatial Planning of American 

Samoa's Coasts and Oceans. 

Cover image: Looking down to the 

village of Fagaalu and beyond to the 

island of Aunu'u. © NOAA Fisheries

Fish hook illustrations: © Nicholas King
106 | American Samoa Ocean Plan