The Integrated Feasibility Report and Environmental Assessment (IFR/EA) is a study led by the Honolulu District of the Pacific Ocean Division of USACE, with the American Samoa Government as the non-Federal sponsor. It focuses on addressing flood risk in the Tafuna-Leone Plain of Tutuila Island, which is densely populated and vulnerable to frequent flooding due to heavy rainfall, shallow stream channels, and various development-related factors.
In response to climate change impacts like rising sea levels, efforts are being made in the Pacific Islands region to assess and adapt to the effects on mangroves. This includes improving management practices, reducing stress on mangroves, and integrating climate data into land-use planning to minimize risks to coastal ecosystems and human safety.
This document, serving as both the Final Management Plan (FMP) and Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), outlines proposed revisions to sanctuary regulations led by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and involves collaboration with the American Samoa Department of Commerce (AS DOC).