AGP Executive Report

Marine Protections Rolled Back: President Trump signed a proclamation reopening parts of three Pacific marine national monuments to commercial fishing, including the Rose Atoll Marine National Monument near American Samoa, expanding access to about half a million square miles and drawing sharp criticism from conservationists. Deep-Sea Mining Watch: As DOI prepares seabed lease sales, experts warn U.S. rules for deep-sea mining are outdated and lack key oversight; local calls for clarification continue ahead of a proposed August lease process in American Samoa’s federal waters. Local Governance & Permits: American Samoa streamlined its Land Use Permit process, setting clearer documentation requirements before construction can begin. Wetlands & Culture: The Department of Commerce’s Wetlands Program held a Wetlands Appreciation and Recognition event linking wetlands protection to traditional knowledge and wildlife. Ocean Climate Signals: The Polynesian Voyaging Society changed course for its Moananuiākea voyage due to rising El Niño risk, highlighting how warmer seas are reshaping Pacific weather. Fisheries Science: The Western Pacific Fishery Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee backed the 2026 American Samoa Bottomfish Stock Assessment Update and urged better tools to track Pacific Island fisheries. Coastal Safety: Surf forecasts point to increasing south-swell energy later this week, with potential high-surf impacts as swells build.

Deep-Sea Mining Watch: Legal experts warn the U.S. is moving toward commercial deep-sea mineral leases with rules they call outdated and too light on oversight, as American Samoa faces a first lease process slated for August—prompting local calls for full transparency on revenue, environmental safeguards, and public input. Local Governance & Environment: American Samoa streamlined its Land Use Permit process to prevent unauthorized development, while major mitigation work (Fagaima Road and Tualauta) is still stuck in slow pre-work stages tied to right-of-way and environmental review, with runoff concerns reaching Pala Lagoon. Coastal & Marine Planning: The Aunu’u Wharf Reconstruction Project is advancing through NEPA Environmental Assessment work, with construction expected to start in late 2027 and finish before 2029, aiming to support both Alia passenger service and cargo landing craft operations. Wetlands & Culture: The Department of Commerce honored Wetlands Champions at a recognition event focused on “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge,” highlighting wetlands’ role in wildlife, shore protection, and cultural heritage. Ocean Conditions: Surf forecasts note changing swell patterns, with a larger south swell expected to build toward the weekend and possible high-surf impacts into early next week. Fisheries Science: The Western Pacific Fishery Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee backed the 2026 American Samoa bottomfish stock assessment update and urged better assessment tools and climate scenario planning. Ocean Justice & Rights: Over 400 advocates met in Washington for Upwell 2026, pushing for decolonizing ocean conservation and greater decision-making power for communities across Guam, CNMI, American Samoa, and Puerto Rico.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: American Samoa lawmakers and residents are raising alarms over fast-tracked commercial deep-sea mineral leases, with calls for clear, documented answers on revenue, impacts, and whether federal rules can truly protect the ocean and local fisheries. Local Mitigation Delays: Flood-control projects like the Fagaima Road and Tualauta mitigation work are still stuck in slow pre-work stages, with right-of-way issues and environmental review requirements dragging timelines. Land Use Permits Streamlined: The governor says the Land Use Permit process has been tightened with clearer guidelines and required documentation before any permitted construction begins. Wetlands Champions Recognized: The Department of Commerce honored wetlands defenders, linking wetlands protection to wildlife, shoreline safety, and traditional knowledge. Aunu’u Wharf Reconstruction: With rough seas limiting boat access, officials updated the Aunu’u Wharf plan—an Environmental Assessment under NEPA is underway, with construction targeted for late 2027 and completion before 2029. Fisheries Science Updates: The Western Pacific council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee backed the 2026 American Samoa bottomfish stock assessment and urged better tools to support Pacific Island fisheries under changing ocean conditions. Ocean Justice Conference: More than 400 advocates met in Washington for Upwell 2026, spotlighting decolonizing ocean conservation and the need for territorial voices in decisions affecting the Pacific. Surf & Weather: Local forecasts point to ongoing southern-hemisphere swell activity, with surf expected to stay elevated and potentially rise toward weekend conditions.

Surf & Weather: American Samoa’s seas stay mostly unsettled with mostly cloudy skies and numerous showers tonight, then partly sunny with scattered showers Wednesday; long-period south swell energy is building, with models pointing to higher surf risk late Friday into Saturday and possibly High Surf Warning conditions Sunday into Monday, especially with peak monthly tides. Land Use Governance: Gov. Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula says the Land Use Permit process has been streamlined, with clearer PNRS guidelines meant to stop unauthorized development and require complete documentation before permitted work begins. Wetlands Protection: The Department of Commerce honored Wetlands Champions at a May 29 event, spotlighting “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge” and how wetlands support wildlife, culture, and shoreline resilience. Deep-Sea Mining Pushback: Local and regional voices keep challenging fast-track seabed mining—letters and updates urge transparency, warn rules may be outdated, and call for full environmental review before any commercial leasing moves ahead. Fisheries & Ocean Policy: A U.S. bill would limit presidents’ power to ban commercial fishing in marine national monuments, shifting management back under the Magnuson-Stevens Act—an issue closely watched by Pacific fishing communities. Aunu’u Wharf Update: Aunu’u Wharf reconstruction is advancing through USACE’s 35% design and a NEPA Environmental Assessment, with construction targeted for late 2027 and completion before 2029. Invasive Species Watch: Little Fire Ants remain a growing concern, with detections now reported at at least 26 sites across Tutuila and spread aided by movement of infested materials.

Deep-Sea Mining Oversight: Experts warn proposed U.S. seabed mining rule changes would weaken environmental review and public input, with “critical minerals” framing raising the odds of exemptions. Local Voice on Leases: An American Samoa candidate urges BOEM/DOI to slow down and provide clear, documented transparency on commercial deep-sea mineral leases moving toward a 20-year framework. NOAA Steps for International Mining: Deep Sea Minerals Corp. says NOAA cleared a major review step for exploration in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, as the U.S. accelerates critical-mineral sourcing. Guam’s Seabed Mining Ban: Guam signed a territorial seabed mining prohibition, but federal lease sales beyond local waters mean the fight shifts to what Guam can enforce. Budget Pressure on Pacific Seas: A proposed NOAA 2027 budget would cut major programs tied to weather forecasting, fisheries, coral protection, and coastal resilience. Fishing Rights in Monuments: A U.S. bill would limit presidents from banning commercial fishing in marine national monuments, pushing management under the Magnuson-Stevens Act—an issue now also heard in a House subcommittee. American Samoa Waters & Ports: Work continues on the Aunu’u Wharf Reconstruction Project with a NEPA Environmental Assessment; meanwhile, Congresswoman Amata advances funding priorities tied to port and operations. Biodiversity & Community Science: The Western Pacific council’s SSC backed American Samoa bottomfish stock assessment updates and climate resilience research; local wildlife teams deploy seabird sound recorders. Invasive Species Watch: Little fire ants keep spreading across Tutuila, with at least 26 detected sites and ongoing concerns for ecosystems and agriculture. Ocean Justice Convening: Upwell 2026 brought 400+ advocates to center Indigenous and territorial voices in ocean conservation and deep-sea mining debates. Wetlands Recognition: Commerce honored wetlands champions, highlighting wetlands’ role in wildlife, shore protection, and cultural heritage. Climate Outlook: NOAA forecasts a high chance of El Niño developing, with implications for rainfall and cyclone risk.

Deep-Sea Mining Oversight: As the U.S. moves toward auctioning seabed leases, experts say proposed rules are outdated and would weaken environmental review and public input, with critics warning “critical minerals” framing could open the door to more exemptions. Local Pushback on Leases: A letter from an American Samoa candidate urges transparency and documented proof as federal agencies race toward a 20-year commercial leasing framework in the EEZ. NOAA Review Progress: Deep Sea Minerals Corp. says NOAA cleared a key step for its international seabed application, moving its exploration review forward. Fisheries Protection in Monuments: A bill in Congress would bar presidents from using the Antiquities Act to ban commercial fishing in marine national monuments, shifting management back to the Magnuson-Stevens Act—an issue tied to how protections can change with each administration. American Samoa Climate Resilience: NOAA forecasts an 82% chance of El Niño developing May–July, with potential impacts for rainfall and cyclone risk. Regional Ocean Justice: Upwell 2026 in Washington drew 400+ advocates from Guam, CNMI, American Samoa, and Puerto Rico, centering decolonizing ocean conservation and local decision-making. Aunu’u Wharf Update: Port and federal partners continue the Aunu’u Wharf Reconstruction Project with a NEPA Environmental Assessment, targeting construction after late 2027. Wetlands Recognition: The Commerce Department honored wetlands champions, highlighting wetlands’ role in wildlife, shoreline protection, and cultural heritage. Invasive Species Alert: Little fire ants continue spreading across Tutuila, now detected at 26 sites, with transport of infested plants and materials flagged as a key driver.

Deep-Sea Mining Push Meets Local Pushback: A congressional candidate asked the new Deep-Sea Minerals Steering Committee for clear, documented transparency on fast-tracked commercial deep-sea mineral leases in American Samoa’s waters, warning the ocean shouldn’t be treated like a testing ground. Fisheries Science for Resilience: The Western Pacific Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee backed the 2026 American Samoa bottomfish stock assessment update and urged better tools to match Pacific Island fisheries, while also factoring climate scenario work into future decisions. Territorial Democracy Debate: A bipartisan Senate briefing highlighted how “consent of the governed” still doesn’t fully apply to 3.6 million Americans in U.S. territories, with speakers tying governance gaps to real-world outcomes. NOAA Seabed Review Advances: Deep Sea Minerals Corp. said NOAA cleared a key step for its international seabed exploration application, as the federal push for critical minerals accelerates. Local Ocean Protection Momentum: Guam signed a seabed mining ban in territorial waters, and American Samoa lawmakers and groups renewed calls for a moratorium near the territory. Aunu’u Wharf Reconstruction Moves Forward: Port and federal partners updated plans for the Aunu’u Wharf project, including an Environmental Assessment under NEPA and a design for both passenger and cargo operations. Invasive Species Watch: Little fire ants continue spreading, with new detections across Tutuila raising concerns for ecosystems and agriculture. Climate Outlook: NOAA forecasts an 82% chance El Niño develops, with impacts that could shift rainfall and cyclone risk for the region.

Deep-Sea Mining & Ocean Protection: Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata renewed her call for a moratorium on deep seabed mining near American Samoa, saying federal reviews must be science-based, thorough, and without shortcuts—especially over unknown impacts like sediment “plumes” that could harm fish stocks. NOAA & Policy Pressure: NOAA advanced Deep Sea Minerals Corp.’s application after a “substantial compliance” finding, while NOAA’s proposed 2027 budget would cut more than $1 billion and threaten Pacific weather forecasting, fisheries support, coral protection, and coastal resilience programs. Local Marine Stewardship: The Aunu’u Wharf Reconstruction Project is moving through NEPA-required environmental assessment work to evaluate impacts on marine species and wildlife, with construction planned to start in late 2027. Wildlife Monitoring: DMWR’s seabird project is using sound recorders on Fagaitua hills to track seabird presence and movements. Invasive Species: Little Fire Ants continue spreading across Tutuila, with at least 26 detected sites and ongoing concerns for ecosystems and agriculture. Climate Signals: NOAA forecasts an 82% chance of El Niño developing, with potential effects on rainfall and cyclone risk for the region. Community & Conservation Culture: Commerce honored wetlands champions, spotlighting wetlands’ role in protecting shores, wildlife, and cultural traditions.

Deep-Sea Mining & Geopolitics: A new report says the race for Pacific seabed minerals is now tied to power plays from Washington and Beijing, with U.S. and China-linked deals reaching toward areas near Guam and American Samoa. Local Governance & Ocean Rights: Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata renewed her call for a deep-seabed mining moratorium near American Samoa, warning federal reviews must be science-based and not rushed, especially over unknown sediment “plumes” and fish-stock impacts. Policy Pushback: Guam signed a seabed mining ban in territorial waters, while American Samoa lawmakers and groups continue arguing against mining and for stronger protections. NOAA Funding & Climate Services: A proposed NOAA budget cut would slash programs tied to weather forecasting, fisheries, and coral/coastal resilience—raising alarms for island communities. Maritime Infrastructure: Aunu’u Wharf Reconstruction planning is moving forward with an Environmental Assessment under NEPA, aimed at safer inter-island passenger and cargo operations. Biodiversity & Research: NOAA’s seabird work continues in Fagaitua with sound recorders, and a local student was selected for seafloor mapping aboard E/V Nautilus. Invasive Species: Little Fire Ants are still spreading across Tutuila, with new detections raising concerns for ecosystems and agriculture. Climate Outlook: El Niño conditions are increasingly likely, with potential impacts for rainfall and cyclone risk across the Pacific. Community & Culture: Upwell 2026 in Washington highlighted decolonizing ocean conservation, with Pacific voices including Guam and American Samoa in the spotlight. Remembering Manny Dueñas: The region mourns Manny Dueñas, a longtime champion for island fishermen across U.S. Pacific communities.

Ocean Justice & Self-Determination: More than 400 ocean policy and environmental justice advocates met in Washington, D.C., for Upwell 2026, with Guam and other Pacific voices pushing for conservation led by Indigenous and local communities, especially as deep-sea mining threats grow. Territory Democracy Debate: A bipartisan congressional briefing on “consent of the governed” highlighted why 3.6 million Americans in U.S. territories still lack full democratic rights, tying the issue to ongoing federal decisions that shape island futures. Seabed Mining Pushback: American Samoa’s Delegate Uifa’atali Amata renewed her call for a deep-sea mining moratorium near the territory, citing unresolved science and risks like sediment “plumes,” while Guam signed a seabed mining ban—though federal lease sales beyond territorial waters remain a looming fight. NOAA Budget Worries: A proposed NOAA 2027 budget would cut major programs tied to weather forecasting, fisheries, coral, and coastal resilience—raising alarms for Pacific island communities. Aunu’u Wharf Update: Port officials and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers advanced the Aunu’u Wharf Reconstruction Project, with an Environmental Assessment under NEPA and construction planned to start in late 2027. Local Ecology Watch: American Samoa’s seabird project continues with field sound recording to track seabirds, alongside ongoing efforts to manage invasive little fire ants. El Niño Outlook: NOAA forecasts an 82% chance of El Niño developing, with potential impacts on rainfall and cyclone risk across the Pacific.

Territorial Democracy Debate: A June 4 congressional briefing in Washington, D.C. asked why the “consent of the governed” still doesn’t fully apply to 3.6 million Americans living in U.S. territories, with Right to Democracy and bipartisan lawmakers spotlighting ongoing limits on self-determination. Port & Island Resilience: Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata says four American Samoa priorities advanced in House Appropriations, including a $1 million boost to the OIA Operations fund, $3 million for ASCC, and a federally funded report on Pago Pago Port improvements, plus another $1 million for 2027 port work. Aunu’u Wharf Reconstruction: Port Administration updated plans for the Aunu’u Wharf Reconstruction Project, replacing the wharf and boat ramp at the current site; an Environmental Assessment under NEPA is underway as USACE moves through 35% design, with construction targeted for late 2027–before 2029. Seabed Mining Pushback: Amata renewed her call for a deep seabed mining moratorium near American Samoa, citing unresolved science and concerns about sediment impacts on fish stocks, while Guam’s seabed mining ban was signed into law as a warning to the region. Ocean Justice & Local Voice: Upwell 2026 in D.C. drew 400+ advocates from Guam, CNMI, American Samoa, and Puerto Rico to argue conservation must start with territorial communities and their lived environmental realities. Invasive Species Watch: Little Fire Ants continue spreading in American Samoa, now detected at at least 26 sites on Tutuila, with transport of infested plants and materials flagged as a key driver. Climate Outlook for the Pacific: NOAA forecasts an 82% chance of El Niño developing by May–July, with conditions likely to persist into early 2027—raising stakes for rainfall and cyclone risk across the islands.

Territorial Democracy Push: A June 4 bipartisan congressional briefing in Washington asked why “consent of the governed” still doesn’t fully apply to 3.6 million Americans in U.S. territories, with Guam advocates warning colonial-era rules keep residents without full democratic rights. Local Governance & Ports: Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata says House Appropriations advanced four American Samoa priorities, including a boost to the OIA Operations fund and new direction tied to Pago Pago Port improvements planning. Aunu’u Wharf Update: With rough seas limiting boat service to Aunu’u, Port Administration says the Aunu’u Wharf Reconstruction Project is moving through NEPA-required environmental review, aiming for construction in late 2027 and completion before 2029. Deep-Sea Mining Fight: Amata renewed her call for a moratorium near American Samoa, citing unresolved science and possible sediment impacts on fish stocks, while Guam signed a seabed mining ban—yet federal lease sales remain on the calendar. NOAA Budget Warning: A proposed 2027 NOAA budget would cut major programs tied to weather forecasting, fisheries, coral and coastal resilience—raising alarms for Pacific island communities. Invasive Species Watch: Little Fire Ants continue spreading in American Samoa, with detections now reported at 26 sites on Tutuila. Climate Outlook: NOAA forecasts an 82% chance El Niño develops by May–July, with higher odds it persists into early 2027.

Deep-Sea Mining Fight: Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata says American Samoa still needs a deep seabed mining moratorium while BOEM/NOAA complete a full environmental review, warning about unknown impacts like sediment “plumes” that could harm fish stocks and food security. Federal Budget & Ports: The House Appropriations Committee advanced bills that would add $1M to American Samoa’s OIA Operations fund (to a record $30M), direct $3M to ASCC, and require a federally funded report on Pago Pago Port improvements, plus a separate $1M earmark for 2027 port work. Maritime Infrastructure: Port Administration updates the Aunu’u Wharf Reconstruction Project: a new design for both Alia passenger service and cargo landing craft, with an Environmental Assessment under NEPA as USACE moves through 35% design. Regional Ocean Governance: A NOAA “substantial compliance” step clears Deep Sea Minerals Corp. to advance its Pacific seabed exploration application, while NOAA budget proposals could cut key Pacific weather, fisheries, and coral programs. Invasive Species: Little Fire Ants continue spreading across Tutuila, now detected at 26 sites, with human transport of infested plants and materials flagged as a major driver. Ocean Justice & Science: Upwell 2026 convened ocean policy and environmental justice advocates across Pacific territories, and a local student was selected for a seafloor mapping internship aboard E/V Nautilus. Climate Outlook: NOAA forecasts an 82% chance El Niño develops this May–July, with conditions likely to persist into early 2027.

Deep-Sea Mining Push vs. Local Concerns: Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata renewed her call for a deep seabed mining moratorium near American Samoa, saying the federal review must be science-based and not rushed, with unresolved risks like sediment “plumes” that could harm fish stocks and food security. Regional Opposition Grows: Guam’s governor signed a seabed mining ban in territorial waters, and American Samoa Democrats praised the move while warning federal lease sales could still move forward. NOAA Steps Forward on Minerals, Critics Warn of Gaps: NOAA granted Deep Sea Minerals Corp. a “substantial compliance” determination to advance its deep-sea minerals application in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone. Budget Threats to Ocean Safety: A proposed NOAA 2027 budget would cut major programs tied to typhoon forecasting, coral protection, and coastal resilience—raising alarms for Pacific islands. Local Marine Governance: A bill heard in a House subcommittee would shift how fishing in marine national monuments is regulated, aiming to prevent presidents from using the Antiquities Act to override Magnuson-Stevens fisheries management. Aunu’u Wharf Update: Port plans for Aunu’u Wharf reconstruction include an Environmental Assessment under NEPA, with design for both Alia passenger transport and cargo landing craft operations. El Niño Watch: NOAA and the National Weather Service flagged an 82% chance of El Niño developing, with potential for drier conditions and higher cyclone risk—prompting voyage plan adjustments for Hōkūleʻa and Hikianalia. Invasive Species Alert: Little Fire Ants continue spreading across Tutuila, now detected at 26 sites, with transport of infested plants and materials blamed for jump-starting new outbreaks. Wetlands Recognition: The Department of Commerce honored wetlands champions, highlighting wetlands’ role in wildlife, shoreline protection, and traditional knowledge.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: NOAA says Deep Sea Minerals Corp. cleared a key “substantial compliance” step for exploring polymetallic nodules in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, moving its federal review forward. Budget Threats to Pacific Nature: NOAA’s proposed 2027 budget would cut more than $1 billion and end programs tied to coral protection, ocean monitoring, and coastal resilience—raising alarms for island weather forecasting and fisheries. Local Voices Against Mining: American Samoa’s Delegate Uifa’atali Amata renewed her call for a deep seabed mining moratorium, citing unresolved science, sediment “plumes,” and the need for a full environmental impact statement. Regional Policy Pressure: Guam lawmakers advanced a bill to ban seabed mining in territorial waters, while American Samoa Democrats praised the move as territories resist “sacrifice zone” treatment. Invasive Species Update: Little Fire Ants keep spreading across Tutuila—now detected at at least 26 sites—spreading via infested plants and materials. El Niño Watch: NOAA forecasts an 82% chance El Niño develops May–July, with higher odds it lasts into early 2027, with typical impacts including drier conditions and increased cyclone risk. Ocean Science & Education: A local student was selected for a seafloor mapping internship aboard E/V Nautilus, and STEAM Fest 2026 highlighted STEAM for environmental stewardship and resilience.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: U.S. officials are moving toward commercial-scale seabed mining, with DOI/BOEM lease auctions planned for federal waters—starting with American Samoa in August 2026—while Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata renews her call for a moratorium, warning that unresolved science and sediment “plumes” could harm fish stocks and food security, and that federal reviews must not be rushed or cut corners. Local Fisheries Oversight: The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council’s June 9–11 meeting in Fagatogo will review American Samoa bottomfish science and other agenda items, with deep-sea mining also on the discussion list. Regional Opposition Grows: The American Samoa Democratic Party praised Guam’s move to ban deep sea mining in its waters, calling it a stand against irreversible environmental risks. Invasive Species Alert: Little Fire Ants continue spreading in American Samoa, with at least 26 detected sites on Tutuila and transport of infested plants and materials blamed for faster spread. Climate Watch: NOAA and the National Weather Service highlight an 82% chance of El Niño developing May–July, with potential impacts for rainfall, drought risk, storms, and coastal ecosystems. Weather Brief (U.S.): A new U.S. drought and outlook update notes shifting conditions across regions, including drought relief in parts of the South and Southeast and dryness expansion in parts of the northern Plains and upper Midwest.