AGP Executive Report

Deep-Sea Mining Push Meets Local Resistance: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa passed a resolution opposing deep-sea mining in or near the territory’s waters and EEZ, citing ecological risk, cultural harm, scientific uncertainty, and intergenerational justice. Federal Lease Sale Watch: A separate report says the Trump administration’s Marine Minerals Administration is moving toward a proposed deep-sea mining lease sale off American Samoa, with an auction tentatively set for Nov. 19, 2026—prompting renewed criticism from scientists and Pacific advocates. NOAA Research Showcase: American Samoa’s NOAA Hollings and EPP/MSI scholars presented summer research in Washington, D.C., including work on ciguatera and using ROVs/photogrammetry to monitor coral reefs. Climate-Driven Voyage Update: The Polynesian Voyaging Society added one year to the Moananuiākea Voyage after NOAA-linked forecasts point to elevated El Niño risks through spring 2027. Roads Funding for Leone–Nu’uuli: The Department of Public Works received a $19.3M FY2026 BUILD grant to rebuild and modernize Route 001, including drainage and traffic-safety upgrades. Health & Research Career Move: Dr. Mata’uitafa Faiai began a one-year postdoctoral fellowship in chronic disease epidemiology after earning her PhD at Yale, focusing on obesity and cardiometabolic risks among American Samoan adolescents.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The Trump administration’s Marine Minerals Administration says it will evaluate a first-ever deep-sea mining lease sale in federal waters off American Samoa, with a tentative Nov. 19, 2026 auction for 20-year rights across more than 31 million acres—prompting sharp criticism from scientists and Pacific communities. Faith-Based Opposition: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa formally passed a resolution opposing deep-sea mining in/near the territory’s waters and EEZ, citing ecological risk, scientific uncertainty, and cultural and intergenerational justice. Community Mobilization: “Stand with the Moana” drew youth, elders, educators, fishermen, and conservation advocates to the Utulei shoreline to call on federal leaders to stop the proposed leases. NOAA Research Spotlight: American Samoa’s NOAA Hollings and EPP/MSI scholars presented summer research in Washington, D.C., including work on ciguatera and using ROVs/photogrammetry to monitor coral reefs. Health & Research Career Move: Dr. Mata’uitafa Faiai met with the Department of Health before starting a one-year postdoctoral fellowship in chronic disease epidemiology at Yale, focused on obesity and cardiometabolic risks among American Samoan adolescents. Infrastructure Upgrade: American Samoa Department of Public Works won a $19.3M FY2026 BUILD grant to modernize and rebuild the Route 001 corridor between Leone and Nu’uuli, including drainage and traffic-safety improvements. STEM/Tech Education: YD Bio and EG BioMed wrapped up BIO Asia-Taiwan 2026, showcasing DNA methylation-based cancer detection and ophthalmology innovations.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The Trump administration’s Marine Minerals Administration proposes the first-ever deep-sea mining lease sale in the world, with bids for 20-year rights in federal waters off American Samoa (auction tentatively set for Nov. 19, 2026), drawing sharp criticism over potential irreversible harm to marine life and ocean-linked livelihoods. Local Opposition Mobilizes: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa formally opposes deep-sea mining in/near the territory’s waters and EEZ, while a “Stand with the Moana” shoreline demonstration gathered youth, elders, educators, fishermen, and conservation advocates to urge the federal government to stop the lease plan. NOAA Research Showcase: American Samoa’s NOAA Hollings and EPP/MSI scholars traveled to Washington, D.C. to present summer research, including work on ciguatera and using ROVs/photogrammetry to monitor coral reefs. Infrastructure for Tech-Ready Mobility: The Department of Public Works received a $19.3M FY2026 BUILD grant to rebuild and modernize Route 001 between Leone and Nu’uuli, targeting roadway rehab, drainage upgrades, and traffic-safety improvements. Health Research Fellowship: Dr. Mata’uitafa Faiai begins a one-year postdoctoral fellowship in chronic disease epidemiology after earning her PhD at Yale, with prior research focused on obesity and cardiometabolic risks among American Samoan adolescents. STEM & Community Learning: ASCC’s ACNR Division celebrated the renovated Fale Samoa opening, funded by USDA NIFA, to boost community-focused research and learning.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The Trump administration’s Marine Minerals Administration is moving toward the first-ever deep-sea mining lease sale in federal waters off American Samoa, with a proposed 20-year auction covering more than 31 million acres and a tentative Nov. 19, 2026 date—sparking strong local and scientific backlash. Local Opposition & Ocean Values: In Utulei, a “Stand with the Moana” demonstration drew youth, elders, educators, fishermen, and conservation advocates to urge the U.S. to stop the lease plan, while Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula says ASG will keep pressing environmental concerns during the 60-day comment period. New Safety Concern: A fresh warning from researchers and groups flags naturally occurring radioactive materials on targeted nodules, arguing mining could release them and raise public health and environmental risks. Infrastructure Upgrade: American Samoa’s Department of Public Works won a $19.3M FY2026 BUILD grant to rebuild and modernize Route 001 between Leone and Nu’uuli, including drainage and traffic-safety improvements. Tech & Health Business: YD Bio and EG BioMed wrapped up BIO Asia-Taiwan 2026, highlighting DNA methylation cancer detection and ophthalmology innovations. STEM Recognition: Kittitas FCCLA students won national honors after repairing a damaged display board en route to Washington, D.C.

BUILD Grant for Roads: The U.S. DOT awarded American Samoa’s Department of Public Works a $19.3 million FY2026 BUILD grant to fully fund major upgrades to Route 001 between Leone and Nu’uuli, including roadway rehab, drainage improvements, traffic-safety work, and structural enhancements. Deep-Sea Mining Push vs. Local Concerns: The Interior Department’s Marine Minerals Administration moved forward with a Proposed Leasing Notice for a deep-sea mining lease sale in federal waters near American Samoa—potentially the first of its kind globally—prompting fresh criticism over possible radioactive risks from mining and processing, plus strong opposition from Governor Pulaalii and community groups. Community Pushback at Utulei: “Stand with the Moana” brought youth, elders, educators, fishermen, and conservation advocates together along the Utulei shoreline to call on federal leaders to listen to Samoan voices and stop the lease sale. Local Research Facility Upgrade: American Samoa Community College’s ACNR Division dedicated its newly renovated Fale Samoa, funded through USDA NIFA support, to expand community-focused research. Offshore Nuclear Energy Watch: The Trump administration said it will evaluate offshore nuclear projects in federal waters, coordinating oversight between Interior and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Coral Science Update: New research highlights coral ecosystem recovery in the ocean’s “twilight zone,” using updated sonar and reef monitoring approaches.

Deep-Sea Mining Push Near American Samoa: The Trump administration’s Marine Minerals Administration says it will advance a Proposed Leasing Notice for a first-ever deep-sea mining lease sale in federal waters east of American Samoa, with an auction tentatively set for Nov. 19, 2026, covering more than 31 million acres; Community Opposition: Local leaders and youth held a peaceful “Stand with the Moana” shoreline demonstration in Utulei, while Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula urged transparency and highlighted concerns for the tuna canning industry during a 60-day comment period; New Safety Concerns: A fresh report warns mining could release naturally occurring radioactive materials from polymetallic nodules, with radium-226 readings reported far above German safety limits for some materials; Offshore Nuclear Energy Talk: Interior’s Marine Minerals Administration also says it will coordinate with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to evaluate potential offshore nuclear projects in federal waters, though no commercial plans are underway; Local Tech & Research Space: American Samoa Community College’s ACNR Division dedicated its renovated Fale Samoa, funded with support from USDA’s NIFA, to boost community-focused research.

Deep-Sea Mining Push Near American Samoa: The Trump administration’s Marine Minerals Administration says it will advance a proposed leasing notice for deep-sea mineral activity in federal waters off American Samoa, with a potential first-ever global lease sale and a 20-year bid window; local leaders and residents are urging caution, citing risks to marine life, sediment impacts, and public health. Community Opposition Takes Shape: “Stand with the Moana” drew youth, elders, educators, fishermen, and conservation advocates to the Utulei shoreline, calling on federal officials to listen to Samoan voices and stop what organizers call a reckless process. Radioactivity Concerns: A new warning adds to Pacific opposition, pointing to research that finds naturally occurring radioactive elements on targeted nodules could become a health risk if released during mining or processing. Local Government Response: Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula says BOEM and DOI have kept communication “transparent,” but he continues to press concerns—especially for the tuna canning industry—during a 60-day comment period. Offshore Energy Debate: Separate reporting says the administration is also evaluating offshore nuclear energy projects in federal waters, coordinating oversight with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Campus Tech & Research: American Samoa Community College’s ACNR Division opened its renovated Fale Samoa, funded with USDA support, to boost community-focused research and training. STEM Learning Abroad: A Southern Illinois University Edwardsville program highlights growing interest in Samoan language learning, including students from American Samoa.

Deep-Sea Mining Push (American Samoa): The U.S. Department of the Interior’s Marine Minerals Administration has advanced a Proposed Leasing Notice for a first-ever deep-sea mining lease sale in federal waters east of American Samoa, with an auction tentatively set for Nov. 19, 2026 and bids for 20-year mining rights across tens of millions of acres. Community Opposition: Local leaders, youth, and conservation groups staged a peaceful “Stand with the Moana” demonstration at Utulei, while the American Samoa government and Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula say they’re pressing for transparency and protections—especially for the tuna canning industry. New Health/Environment Alarm: A fresh report highlights concerns that naturally occurring radioactive materials on targeted polymetallic nodules could become a health risk if released during mining or processing, adding to calls for a moratorium. Local Tech & Research Infrastructure: American Samoa Community College’s ACNR Division celebrated the July 1 opening of its renovated Fale Samoa, funded through USDA NIFA, to strengthen community-focused research and learning. STEM Education (Broader Pacific): Southern Illinois University Edwardsville launched a Samoan 101 course using the Talofa Talk platform, drawing students from the U.S., Australia, New Zealand, and American Samoa.

Deep-Sea Mining Push Near American Samoa: The U.S. Marine Minerals Administration has released a Proposed Leasing Notice and is moving toward the first-ever U.S. deep-sea mining lease sale, with an auction tentatively set for Nov. 19, 2026, covering tens of millions of acres east of American Samoa. Local Opposition Grows: American Samoa leaders and residents are voicing strong concerns, including Governor Pulaalii’s call for transparency and worries about impacts to the tuna canning industry. Radioactivity Alarm: A new report warns mining could release naturally occurring radioactive materials from polymetallic nodules, citing radium-226 levels far above safety limits on nodule surfaces. Community Action: “Stand with the Moana” brought youth, elders, educators, and fishermen to the Utulei shoreline to urge federal officials to listen to Samoan voices. Offshore Nuclear Energy Talk: The administration is also evaluating nuclear energy projects in federal waters, coordinating oversight with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, though no commercial plans are set. STEM & Skills in the Region: Southern Illinois University Edwardsville launched a Samoan 101 course using its Talofa Talk platform, and ASCC’s ACNR division opened a renovated Fale Samoa to support community-focused research.

Deep-Sea Mining Push (American Samoa): The U.S. Marine Minerals Administration has advanced a Proposed Leasing Notice for deep-sea mineral activity in federal waters off American Samoa, setting up a potential first-of-its-kind lease sale (auction timing discussed as Nov. 19, 2026) and requiring bidders to make “every reasonable effort” to hire American Samoans, use local businesses, and use the Port of Pago Pago. Local Response: Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula says the U.S. has kept communication “transparent,” but ASG is still pressing concerns about impacts to the tuna canning industry and other ocean-linked livelihoods during a 60-day comment period. Community Opposition: A “Stand with the Moana” demonstration at Utulei brought youth, elders, educators, fishermen, and conservation advocates together to urge federal officials to listen to Samoan voices and stop what they call a reckless lease sale. New Scientific Concern (Radioactivity): A new report warns mining could release naturally occurring radioactive materials from polymetallic nodules, citing measurements of radium-226 and radon risks during mining or processing. Coral Science (Local Reef Insight): USGS-linked research in Faga’alu Bay finds wave energy may be the main driver of when and where sediment accumulates on coral reefs—useful for managing reef stress. Offshore Energy Policy (Nuclear): The Trump administration is also evaluating offshore nuclear energy projects in federal waters, coordinating oversight between Interior and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. STEM & Culture (Samoan Language): Southern Illinois University Edwardsville launched a Samoan 101 course drawing students from across the U.S., Australia, New Zealand, and American Samoa, highlighting concerns about language fading in the diaspora. Tech/Health (Biotech Showcase): YD Bio and EG BioMed wrapped up BIO Asia-Taiwan 2026, highlighting DNA methylation-based cancer detection and ophthalmology innovations. Education & Community Space: ASCC-ACNR celebrated the renovated Fale Samoa opening, boosting community-focused research capacity.

Deep-Sea Mining Push (American Samoa): The U.S. Interior Department’s Marine Minerals Administration has advanced a proposed leasing notice for deep-sea mineral activity near American Samoa, setting up a potential first-of-its-kind U.S. seabed lease sale (auction eyed for Nov. 19, 2026) and drawing sharp local and scientific backlash. Local Opposition & Governance: Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula says ASG has raised concerns about impacts to the tuna canning industry and other ocean-linked sectors, while community groups staged a peaceful “Stand with the Moana” demonstration urging federal officials to listen to Samoan voices. New Health/Environment Warning: A fresh report highlights a “radioactivity blind spot,” pointing to naturally occurring radioactive materials on polymetallic nodules and warning that mining or processing could release them into the environment. Downstream Tech Angle: Separate coverage notes the U.S. is also planning downstream processing/refining capacity for battery metals—shifting the race from extraction to getting minerals into usable forms. Coral Science: NOAA-backed work and related research spotlight coral reef recovery and monitoring, including how sediment and ocean conditions affect reef stress. STEM in the Community: American Samoa Community College’s ACNR Division opened a renovated Fale Samoa to boost community-focused research, while a new Samoan language course highlights STEM-adjacent learning and cultural tech tools for language education.

Deep-Sea Mining Protest: “Stand with the Moana” brought about 80 people to the Utulei shoreline—youth, elders, educators, fishermen, and conservation advocates—calling on the federal government to stop proposed deep-sea mining leases in American Samoa’s waters. Federal Leasing Push: The U.S. Marine Minerals Administration/BOEM advanced a Proposed Leasing Notice for American Samoa’s outer continental shelf, setting up a first-of-its-kind lease sale (two 20-year areas) with an auction date of Nov. 19, 2026, and minimum bids of $3 million. Local Government Response: Gov. Pulaalii Nikolao Pula said ASG has raised concerns about impacts to the tuna canning industry and urged transparency during the 60-day comment period. New Health Risk Warning: A new report flags a “radioactivity blind spot,” citing studies that found naturally occurring radioactive elements on targeted nodules could become a health risk if released during mining or processing. Coral Science Update: USGS research in Faga’alu Bay found wave energy, not just land runoff, drives when and where sediment builds up on coral reefs—key for local reef protection planning. Tech & Research Spotlight: YD Bio and EG BioMed wrapped up BIO Asia-Taiwan 2026, highlighting DNA methylation cancer detection and ophthalmology innovations. Community Tech/Training: ASCC’s ACNR division opened its renovated Fale Samoa to boost community-focused research and learning.

Deep-Sea Mining Push (American Samoa): The U.S. Interior Department’s Marine Minerals Administration has advanced a proposed lease for deep-sea mineral extraction off American Samoa, setting up a first-of-its-kind U.S. lease sale for Nov. 19, 2026, covering about 33 million acres and offering 20-year rights; the move is already drawing strong opposition from the Governor and environmental groups, who warn of irreversible harm to marine life and local ocean-based livelihoods. Local Response & Process: Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula says the government has raised concerns about impacts to the tuna canning industry and will submit feedback during the 60-day comment period. Offshore Nuclear Energy (Broader U.S. Policy): The Trump administration is also evaluating offshore nuclear projects in federal waters, coordinating oversight between Interior and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Reef Science (Sediment on Am Samoa): New USGS-linked research in Faga’alu Bay finds wave energy, not just land runoff, drives when and where sediment builds up on coral reefs—key for managing reef stress. Regional Tech & Research Capacity: Pacific Community Director-General Dr. Paula Vivili visited American Samoa to strengthen science and technical cooperation across health, fisheries, marine resources, energy, and environment. Starlink Roam Update: Starlink changed Roam regions so American Samoa is grouped with the North American block, expanding roaming coverage for travelers.

Biotech Showcase: YD Bio and EG BioMed wrapped up BIO Asia-Taiwan 2026, highlighting DNA methylation-based cancer detection and new ophthalmology products and clinical work. Local Research Facilities: ASCC’s ACNR division officially opened its renovated Fale Samoa, funded with USDA support to boost community-focused research. Climate Skills Pipeline: Tower’s 2026 climate scholarships backed students including Samoan recipient Lagi Talalupe, aiming to build Pacific capacity on climate action. Deep-Sea Mining Push (American Samoa): The U.S. Marine Minerals Administration/BOEM advanced a Proposed Leasing Notice for seabed mineral extraction near American Samoa, with an auction planned for Nov. 19 and rules that include hiring American Samoans and using local services. Fresh Environmental Alarm: A new report warns deep-sea mining could release naturally occurring radioactivity from polymetallic nodules, adding to Pacific opposition. Coral Reef Science: USGS research in Faga’alu Bay found wave energy drives when and where sediment builds up on coral reefs—key for managing reef stress. Connectivity Update: Starlink changed Roam rules so American Samoa is grouped into a North America region, expanding roaming coverage for eligible plans. Public Safety Infrastructure: Gov. Pulaalii declared action on bridge maintenance after FHWA flagged structural deficiencies, requiring corrective plans and prioritizing several bridges.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. Interior Department’s Marine Minerals Administration/BOEM has advanced a Proposed Leasing Notice to auction about 33 million acres of seabed off American Samoa for critical minerals, with an initial Nov. 19 auction and minimum bids starting at $3 million—while the Governor says ASG is reviewing the plan and pushing for transparency and local input. Radioactivity Concerns: A new report warns that naturally occurring radioactive materials on targeted polymetallic nodules could become a health risk if released during mining or processing, adding fresh fuel to Pacific opposition. Local Research Boost: American Samoa Community College’s ACNR Division held the grand opening of its newly renovated Fale Samoa, aimed at strengthening community-focused research. Climate Education Scholarships: Tower’s 2026 Bachelor of Climate Change scholarships include Samoan student Lagi Talalupe, who plans to return home to help address climate issues. Tech for Travelers: Starlink updated Starlink Roam rules, expanding roaming regions to include American Samoa under a North America grouping. STEM/Health Policy Watch: Congress is again moving toward making daylight saving time permanent, with new debate over health impacts.

Deep-Sea Mining Push Near American Samoa: The U.S. Department of the Interior’s Marine Minerals Administration has advanced a Proposed Leasing Notice to open about 33 million acres of seabed east of American Samoa for critical minerals, with an auction set for Nov. 19 and minimum bids starting at $3 million; Local Governance: Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula says BOEM has kept communication “transparent,” but he’s still pressing concerns about impacts to the tuna canning industry and other sectors during a 60-day comment period; Radioactivity Warning: A new report from the Deep Sea Mining Campaign flags a “scientific blind spot,” citing German research that found radium-226 on targeted nodules’ surfaces exceeding safety limits by 100 to 1,000 times, plus radon release risks; Environmental Science: USGS research in Faga’alu Bay finds wave energy, not just land runoff, drives when and where sediment builds up on coral reefs; Tech & Connectivity: Starlink’s updated Roam policy groups countries into shared regions, expanding service for travelers—American Samoa is included in the North American region; STEM Education & Community: American Samoa Community College’s ACNR Division held a grand opening for its newly renovated Fale Samoa to boost community-focused research.