Acting Governor Talauega Eleasalo Ale has signed an executive order aimed at safeguarding the territory’s unique marine and terrestrial resources.
The executive order establishes the American Samoa Invasive Species Advisory Committee, and calls for an Invasive Species Action Plan to respond to invasive species threats.
The advisory committee is to provide leadership, coordination, and direction in preventing, controlling, and eradicating invasive species within the territory.
Comprising representatives from a variety of government agencies, institutions, and organizations, the committee is to collaboratively address these challenges and develop strategies to mitigate their impact.
The Action Plan will include education and outreach initiatives to engage stakeholders and gather recommendations for funded projects.
Scientific research has shown that invasive species can have far-reaching impacts on forestry, agriculture, fisheries, public health, and food security, making the need for effective prevention, management, and monitoring strategies imperative.
The Acting Governor said, “We need to take a proactive approach to managing invasive species to protect our territory’s rich biodiversity and support sustainable industries. Additionally, this order is not just about protecting our natural resources; it also helps preserve our way of life and our future.”
Photo: Mint weed/National Park of Am Samoa
