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DMWR and DOC host workshop on marine alien species
The Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources, along with the Department of Commerce and the National Marine Sanctuary Program, came together to host an insightful two-day workshop to share information on ways to lessen the likelihood of marine alien species being introduced in the territory.
According to a statement from the sponsoring agencies, “The global movement of marine alien species by human activities is recognized as a leading threat to aquatic ecosystems throughout the world.” In addition, “Increased activities associated with the movement of humans and commodities have allowed marine alien species to be transported to isolated areas such as the Samoan archipelago.”
Some examples of these worldwide activities include commercial and private maritime vessel traffic, shipments of live seafood and bait, and aquaculture and fisheries activities.
The workshop, held at the Convention Center in Utulei, saw the presence of representatives from different agencies in both Tutuila and Samoa who were provided with information aimed at exploring ways to minimize the introduction of marine alien species through cooperation amongst the agencies.
Scott Godwin of the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology was the workshop facilitator, and guest speakers included representatives from Hawaii’s Department of Land and Natural Resources, the South Pacific Regional Environmental Program in Samoa, and the International Ocean Institute in Australia.
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