What’s Happening with Deep Sea Mining in American Samoa
In April 2025, President Trump signed an order pushing for deep sea mining to search for minerals in U.S. waters—including areas around American Samoa. These minerals are used in things like batteries and electronics, but mining them from the ocean floor can cause serious harm.
Why This Matters
Our comprehensive suite of professional services caters to a diverse clientele, ranging from homeowners to commercial developers.
The ocean is our home.
For Pacific Islanders, especially in American Samoa, the ocean is not just water—it’s our food source, our culture, our stories, and our identity.
Mining could destroy marine life.
The deep sea is still largely unknown, but we do know that mining can damage coral reefs, kill sea creatures, and pollute our waters.
Communities weren’t asked.
This order speeds up the process and encourages companies to dig without properly listening to local or Indigenous voices, including those upholding Fa‘aSamoa.
What BOEM Is Doing
BOEM (Bureau of Ocean Energy Management) is collecting public comments about where mining might happen and how it could affect communities, the environment, and culture.
They’re asking for information on:
- How to better involve local and Indigenous communities
- How the ocean is used for fishing (including cultural fishing)
- The health of marine life and the environment
- Impacts on Samoan culture, sacred sites, and access to traditional lands/waters
- Community concerns and ideas for protection
What You Can Do
BOEM (Bureau of Ocean Energy Management) is collecting public comments about where mining might happen and how it could affect communities, the environment, and culture.
They’re asking for information on:
1. Speak Up
Anyone can submit a comment—even you! BOEM is asking for community voices to share how this could affect your life, land, and future.Here is the link to submit a comment: BOEM Comment Portal
2. Protect Our Oceans
Let BOEM know the ocean is not just a place for profit—it’s part of who we are.
3. Share With Others
Help spread awareness and encourage others in your family or village to share their voice.
Our ocean is sacred. Let’s protect it for our people, our culture, and our next generation.
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