AGP Executive Report
Last update: 6 hours agoDeep-Sea Mining Push: U.S. officials are moving toward commercial-scale seabed mining, with DOI/BOEM lease auctions planned for federal waters—starting with American Samoa in August 2026—while Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata renews her call for a moratorium, warning that unresolved science and sediment “plumes” could harm fish stocks and food security, and that federal reviews must not be rushed or cut corners. Local Fisheries Oversight: The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council’s June 9–11 meeting in Fagatogo will review American Samoa bottomfish science and other agenda items, with deep-sea mining also on the discussion list. Regional Opposition Grows: The American Samoa Democratic Party praised Guam’s move to ban deep sea mining in its waters, calling it a stand against irreversible environmental risks. Invasive Species Alert: Little Fire Ants continue spreading in American Samoa, with at least 26 detected sites on Tutuila and transport of infested plants and materials blamed for faster spread. Climate Watch: NOAA and the National Weather Service highlight an 82% chance of El Niño developing May–July, with potential impacts for rainfall, drought risk, storms, and coastal ecosystems. Weather Brief (U.S.): A new U.S. drought and outlook update notes shifting conditions across regions, including drought relief in parts of the South and Southeast and dryness expansion in parts of the northern Plains and upper Midwest.
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