National Coral Reef Monitoring Program Socioeconomic Monitoring Component. Summary Findings for American Samoa, 2014

This report outlines human dimensions information relevant to coral reef resources in American Samoa. The findings here are derived from a combination of data gathered through household surveys conducted in February 2014, and additional secondary sources of socioeconomic information for the jurisdiction. Surveys demonstrated that participation in recreational coral reef related activities such as SCUBA diving and snorkeling is relatively uncommon in American Samoa, with the exception of swimming and beach recreation. However, over half of residents participate in fishing or gathering of marine resources. Residents of urban areas perceived coral reef ecosystem health to be in worse condition than residents of rural areas. Additionally, surveys revealed that American Samoans generally support current marine management policies and regulations, regardless of their reliance on marine resources, and are generally trusting of the government as a source of information.