This financial assistance award will provide direct assistance to the arizona board of regents on behalf of arizona state university to remove over 84,000 pounds of trash from waters in american samoa

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration awarded a cooperative agreement to the Arizona Board of Regents on behalf of Arizona State University for $1,118,384 on October 1, 2025, under the Marine Debris Program (CFDA 11.999) to remove over 84,000 pounds of trash from waters in American Samoa.

The project installs six trash-collecting devices—four booms and two surface skimmers—in four priority rivers to address stream and coastal pollution from inadequate waste management and storm runoff that has degraded water quality and near-shore marine habitats. The recipient will develop a pilot recycling program with the Moana Taka Partnership, installing two receptacles and providing free shipping off-island. Community engagement includes meetings with village leaders adjacent to stream and bay interception sites to identify barriers to appropriate waste disposal and develop solutions. The project will support at least 8 jobs and deliver benefits to public health, safety, tourism, fishing, recreation, navigation, and the local economy.

Performance occurs in Tempe, Arizona with place of performance in American Samoa. The period of performance runs through September 30, 2028. Ocean Conservancy Inc. serves as a sub-grantee, contributing to the collaborative, multi-stakeholder waste reduction and removal program (sub-award NA25NOSX999C0088-ASUB00002185, dated August 24, 2026).

Stream and coastal pollution from inadequate waste management and storm runoff are the main sources of degradation of water quality and near shore marine habitats, and many residents have reported that they are no longer able to swim, recreate, boat, or fish in many near-shore marine areas, due to the high volume of marine debris and solid waste that has accumulated. This project aims to install six trash collecting devices, including four booms and two surface skimmers in four priority rivers. This project will also develop a pilot recycling program with the moana taka partnership, installing two receptacles and providing free shipping off-island. Education and outreach will involve meetings with community leaders, located in villages adjacent to the stream and bays with the interception devices, to identify perceptual and logistical barriers to appropriate waste disposal and help to develop solutions. Ultimately, this project will support at least 8 jobs and provide benefits to public health, safety, tourism, fishing, recreation, navigation, and the local economy.