National Park superintendent who championed community partnerships, retires
Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The National Park of American Samoa Superintendent Scott Burch, who has dedicated 10 years of service leading the park and serving the community in American Samoa has retired. During his tenure at the National Park of American Samoa, Superintendent Burch has made significant contributions to preserving the park's natural and cultural heritage, a press release from the park system said.
Under his leadership, the park achieved numerous milestones, including building community partnerships, conservation projects, visitor experience enhancements, tripling the number of federal NPS jobs held by Samoans, and ensuring a Samoan voice is present in all park planning and actions.
"Superintendent Scott always follows the Samoan proverb, Ua fetaui lelei fola o le 'alia, which means great things can be accomplished if everyone works together," said NPS Cultural Liaison Pua Tuaua. "So much of what the park has accomplished in the last 10 years is because of his understanding of Samoan ways and culture."
His commitment to community engagement and collaboration has strengthened relationships with local villages, schools, and local agencies. His efforts have highlighted traditional Samoan culture, the importance of conservation for future generations, and a focus on safety for the community at large.
After 2 decades working in the non-profit and outdoor recreation industries, Superintendent Burch joined National Park Service in December 2008.
"In 2008 I sold my company in Hawaii and joined the NPS with one goal in mind, to someday work with the great people at the National Park of American Samoa. In 2015 I got lucky and finally moved to my dream job in American Samoa" Superintendent Burch said. "As I head home to Hawaii, I would like to extend my gratitude to the many partners and friends I have worked with over the years. Fa'afetai tele lava!"
Before arriving in American Samoa, Burch worked at Denali National Park in Alaska, and Crater Lake National Park in Oregon. The National Park of American Samoa is unique as the only U.S. national park south of the equator, protecting tropical rainforests, coral reefs, and a vibrant Samoan cultural heritage.
Superintendent Burch has been instrumental in ensuring these resources are preserved for the Samoan community and visitors from around the world.