Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — In a move to preserve the Naumati Lava Lowland Rainforest a comprehensive proposal under the Fiscal Year 2024 Inflation Reduction Act Tribal/ Indigenous Community act titled "Last Stand: Preserving Naumati Lowland Rainforest," aims to protect this invaluable natural and cultural treasure for future generations of American Samoans.

Located within the heart of American Samoa, the Naumati lava lowland rainforest is not only a biodiversity hotspot but also holds deep cultural significance for the indigenous Samoan community. Historical sites including the best preserved and most accessible star mound can be found in Naumati. As mandated by the Revised Constitution of American Samoa, ASG is committed to safeguarding the ancestral lands and traditions of the Samoan people.

In a press release issued by the Governor’s Office Lieutenant Governor La’apui Talauega E.V. Ale says, "We must set aside places for our children and grandchildren, sanctuaries where our natural environment can flourish, our culture can be celebrated, and the gifts of creation can remain untouched. The Naumati Forest is one of those sacred places."

In addition to being the home for rare species and native plants, the Naumati Forest is a key aquifer recharge area and helps ensure the people of American Samoa have access to clean drinking water.

DMWR Director Taotasi Archie Soliai emphasized the initiative's importance. “This forest is not merely a patch of greenery but a lifeline for American Samoa. Its conservation is crucial for myriad reasons, from preserving biodiversity to ensuring water security and mitigating flood risks,” he said.

In conjunction with the proposal submission, ASG has launched a public awareness initiative to highlight the significance of Naumati Forest and encourage community engagement. This initiative includes educational resources, community outreach programs, and the release of a video that explores the forest's ecological importance and cultural ties.

ASG aims to preserve Naumati Forest as a sanctuary for future generations, ensuring that it remains a thriving ecosystem that supports biodiversity, contributes to climate resilience, and provides educational opportunities for local schools and youth. By safeguarding this natural heritage, ASG seeks to promote sustainable tourism, bolster local economies, and nurture a deeper appreciation for the unique cultural and ecological values inherent in the Naumati Forest.

To support these conservation efforts, ASG seeks community involvement and partnership to ensure the long-term protection of Naumati Forest.

Notable, purchase of the acreage comprising Naumati Forest has long been on the government’s must-do list, but negotiations with the Haleck Family who own the majority of the forest has hit various snags throughout the years.

Vincent Haleck whose family owns a large portion of the Naumati Forest supports conservation efforts as ASG seeks community involvement and partnership to ensure the long-term protection of area. A wave in support of the preservation of the Naumati Forest was held yesterday and Mr. Haleck was on hand. [courtesy photo]

A wave in support of the preservation of the Naumati Forest was held in Tafuna on Tuesday, July 23.