This American Samoa Ocean Plan is the first spatial plan to be completed by the United States for its jurisdictions in the Pacific Ocean. Other U.S. jurisdictions will soon follow, including Guam, CNMI, and Hawaii. The United States has already completed ocean plans for the mainland coastlines along the Atlantic Ocean in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast.
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. CMSP, or ocean planning, can ensure compatible ocean use and conserve ocean resources to ensure the vibrant coastal and ocean environments.
For more information, click here to view the American Samoa Ocean Plan - For the Spatial Planning of American Samoa's Coasts and Ocean 2018.