To provide alternative access of fishery resources through fish aggregation devices

The U.S. Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service Region 1 awarded $225,362.00 to the American Samoa Government's Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources under the Sport Fish Restoration program (CFDA 15.605) for the period of October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. This formula grant supports the provision of alternative access to fishery resources through the implementation and management of fish aggregation devices (FADs). Fish aggregation devices are man-made or natural structures deployed in ocean environments to attract and concentrate fish populations, thereby providing improved fishing opportunities for recreational and subsistence users while potentially reducing pressure on natural reef habitats.

As a U.S. territorial government entity with established expertise in marine and wildlife conservation, the American Samoa Government leverages this funding to enhance public access to sport fish populations and maintain viable fishery resources in the territory. The Sport Fish Restoration program, financed through excise taxes on fishing equipment and related maritime products, supports such initiatives across eligible state and territorial jurisdictions. This award aligns with the program's broader mandate to restore, conserve, and manage sport fish populations while providing sustainable public access to aquatic recreational resources.