Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The American Samoa Environmental Protection Agency (AS-EPA) recently completed a Sanitary Survey of the American Samoa Power Authority (ASPA) Satellite System as part of AS-EPA’s regulatory programs. Sanitary surveys are required every three years and involve the review of ASPA’s public water system performance, maintenance and upkeep, record keeping, microbiological and chemical analysis, water treatment, and illegal connections. The sanitary surveys also identify any deficiencies with the water production as well as the distribution of the water to ASPA customers.

This year the sanitary survey took place in the villages of Aunu’u, Afono, Aoa, Masefau/Sailele, Fagasa and Vatia.  The survey was led by the AS-EPA Drinking Water Branch Chief, Siumukuka Fa’ai’uaso, and Leilua Watson, Drinking Water Specialist with assistance from Christianera Tuitele, Water Division – Division Head and Bessie Lee from USEPA Region IX. ASPA representatives present during the survey included William Spitzenberg, P.E., Chief of Engineering Service Division, Water Chief Operator, Danielle Mauga Meleah, and ASPA satellite system operators.

Sanitary surveys are performed to prevent the risk of waterborne diseases, identify technical and managerial capacity development needs and document compliance deficiencies. Any significant deficiencies discovered in the water system are shared with ASPA. AS-EPA ensures that deficiencies are corrected in a timely manner and also provides technical assistance. Deficiencies may include inoperable or worn out parts due to elements of nature, operation and maintenance shortcoming, or a system failure or malfunction of water treatment, storage, and distribution.

During the recent sanitary survey for ASPA’s Satellite System, minor deficiencies were identified. AS-EPA and ASPA are working towards addressing these deficiencies. AS-EPA will deliver final sanitary survey report to ASPA in the near future.

The AS-EPA Director, Mr. Ameko Pato, commends ASPA and staff for their continuous commitment to protecting our drinking water infrastructure. He also asks the public to proactively report all water leakages to ASPA to aid in safeguarding our water supplies now and into the future. 

For more information, please contact AS-EPA at 633 2304.