SURFACE WATER

The Water Quality Branch protects against the contamination of streams, wetlands, beaches, and coastal waters by monitoring and regulating surface runoff.

Piggery Compliance Program

As part of AS-EPA's Beach Monitoring Program, a total of 46 recreational beaches are sampled and tested for bacteria on a regular basis. Tutuila beaches are sampled weekly, whereas Aunu'u and Manu'a beaches are sampled monthly. The map below provides the most updated status of local beaches based on sampling results.

A recommended beach indicates low enterococci bacteria levels that are within AS-EPA Water Quality Standards. A not recommended beach indicates enterococci bacteria levels that exceed AS-EPA Water Quality Standards. It is advised that the public should not swim, wade, or fish within 400 feet of these polluted beaches.

For more information, please contact AS-EPA at 633-2304 or click here for the most recent beach advisory.

Guidance Manual for Runoff Control:
- American Samoa Erosion and Sediment Control Field Guide

Watershed Management and Protection Program
- FY23 Annual Report

Water Quality Assessment
- Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report

BURIAL AT SEA

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has issued a general permit under the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA) to authorize the burial of human remains at sea. The general permit is published in the federal regulations at 40 CFR 229.1.

Prior to engaging in a burial at sea, you must notify USEPA 30 days before the event using the Burial at Sea Reporting Tool.

In order for us to ensure that burials are conducted according to federal regulations, we ask that you also complete the AS-EPA Burial at Sea Tracking Form and submit it to the Water Quality Branch.