American Samoa has taken a significant step towards addressing the challenges posed by its geographic isolation and the changing conditions of the ocean through the “Ocean Science to Service Workshop and Consultation” held in November 2025. This historic event marked the first national capacity-building initiative in the territory aimed at converting ocean science into practical, real-world applications essential for various local stakeholders including government agencies, marine operators, and emergency responders.
The workshop, organized by the American Samoa Weather Service in conjunction with the Pacific Community (SPC), focused on bolstering locally driven ocean services with regional support. Elinor Lutu-McMoore, Director of the National Weather Service, highlighted the need for enhanced communication and training among the marine community, underscoring the importance of collaborative learning and hands-on training to address ongoing demands for structured dialogue.
Diverse representatives from organizations such as the Department of Homeland Security, the American Samoa Coral Reef Advisory Group, the National Marine Sanctuary, and the United States Coast Guard gathered to engage in vital discussions. The event offered a unique platform for these sectors that often operate independently while relying on the same oceanic conditions to come together and share insights.
Key training sessions during the workshop included effective use of tidal calendars and sea-level statistics, all of which play a critical role in managing port and harbor operations. The 2025 tidal Predictions Calendar for Pago Pago was introduced, providing crucial information necessary for safe navigation and informed coastal planning, thereby allowing participants to make more effective operational decisions.
A strong focus on the Pacific Ocean Portal, an online platform that aggregates historical and near-real-time ocean data, highlighted its importance for marine safety and forecasting. This user-friendly portal enables stakeholders to easily access critical data on waves, winds, ocean currents, sea level, and tides. Pu’amavae Ah-Mai, a Harbormaster at the Department of Port Administration, noted its potential to enhance operational efficiency.
Participants also toured the American Samoa Weather Service, gaining insights into daily forecasting practices, which included learning about the launch of weather balloons. These balloons are instrumental in collecting vital atmospheric data necessary for refining weather forecasts, marine advisories, and early warnings, all crucial for the safety of American Samoa and the broader Pacific region.
This workshop not only equipped participants with improved technical skills but also fostered vital professional connections. By enhancing understanding of how ocean information can be utilized across different sectors, the event promoted greater collaboration and coordination, contributing to a safer and more resilient future for the communities of American Samoa.