Cooperative Agreement NA25NOSX473C0073

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is providing a $900,000 Cooperative Agreement under the Office for Coastal Management (CFDA 11.473) federal grant program to the American Samoa Government Department of Commerce (ASGDC) to build the capacity of the American Samoa Coastal Management Program (ASCMP). The funding will be used over 3 years to develop staff expertise, purchase equipment and supplies, conduct habitat monitoring and restoration projects, and maintain key personnel positions focused on coastal zone management and conservation efforts. Specifically, the award will support ASCMP in planning and implementing habitat restoration and conservation initiatives proposed through Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding opportunities, as well as executing a feasibility study for a living shoreline project, providing staff training, and engaging community groups in clean-up and monitoring activities. This capacity-building effort aims to equip ASCMP with the knowledge and resources to effectively manage American Samoa's coastal resources in the coming years.