SAMOA

Introduction

Area: 2,935 sq.km.

Population: 180,741 (2007)

Samoa is an independent state in the South Pacific situated between latitudes 13° and
14°30' South and longitudes 171° and 173° West. The state comprises two main
inhabited islands, Savai'i (1,820 sq.km) and Upolu (1,105 sq.km), and seven islets, two
(Manono and Apolima) of which are inhabited.

Samoa is an oceanic volcanic archipelago that originated in the Pliocene. The islands
were formed in a westerly direction with the oldest eruption, the Fagaloa volcanics, on
the eastern side. The islands are still volcanically active, with the last two eruptions being
in 1760 and 1905-11 respectively. Much of the country is mountainous, with Mount Silisili
(1,858 m) on Savai'i being the highest point.

Samoa has a wet tropical climate with temperatures ranging between 17°C and 34°C
and an average temperature of 26.5°C. The temperature difference between the rainy
season (November to March) and the dry season (May to October) is only 2°C. Rainfall
is heavy, with a minimum of 2,000 mm in all places. The islands are strongly influenced
by the trade winds, with the Southeast Trades blowing 82% of the time from April to
October and 54% of the time from May to November. The closeness of Samoa to the
cyclone belt means that is it frequently affected by cyclones. Since 1990, five cyclones
have of varying degrees have impacted the biodiversity, infrastructure and economy of
the country.

Samoa has been independent since 1962. The majority of the 180471 population1,
which is Polynesian in origin, live on the island of Upolu. The most densely populated
area is the capital city of Apia, where the population density is approximately 75 persons
per sq.km. By contrast, Savai'i and rural Upolu are sparsely populated.

Agriculture using mainly traditional farming methods, tourism, pelagic fisheries, and nonu
(Morinda citrifolia) juice export are main sources of economic development. Since the
mid 1990’s, a car parts factory was established in Samoa is the single biggest employer
on island with a workforce of over 4000 people. The increase in construction for
infrastructure and commercial buildings as part of reconstruction from devastation by the
cyclones and the recent South Pacific Games in 2007 have steadily increased its
workforce and the income generated for the local economy. Remittances from Samoans
living overseas continue to be the highest form of foreign exchange.

The natural vegetation consists primarily of lowland and montane rain forest with
additional small areas of cloud, riverine, swamp, mangrove and beach forest. Extensive
deforestation has occurred as a result of commercial timber operations, land clearance
for agriculture, and cyclones. Most of the lowland forest on Savai'i and Upolu has now
been cleared or highly modified, but the montane forests are less disturbed and still
contain a rich endemic flora and fauna. The biodiversity of Samoa including terrestrial,

1
2006 National Population and Household Census ; Statistics Department, Ministry of Finance
marine and wetland ecosystems have been compiled in the National Biodiversity
Strategy and Action Plan.

To date, two National Parks (O Le Pupu-Pu’e and Lake Lanutoo), 2 marine protected
areas ( Aleipata and Safata), one marine reserve (Palolo Deep), one nature reserve (Mt
Vaea Reserve) over 60 traditional fisheries reserves, and four community-based
conservation areas have been established with varying degrees of effectiveness. It is
estimated that the protected areas now cover around 15% of the terrestrial and inshore
reef areas of Samoa.

Summary of Wetland Situation

There are six main wetland communities in Western Samoa, distinguished from each
other by floristic, physiognomic and geographical differences. Three of these
communities, coastal marsh, montane marsh and montane bog, are dominated by
herbaceous species; the other three, mangrove scrub, mangrove forest and swamp
forest, are dominated by woody trees.

Of the two main islands of Samoa, Upolu is the older and possesses the most wetland
areas, especially herbaceous marshes in low-lying coastal basins which are separated
from the sea by a sand barrier and lack a stream outlet.

The characteristic species of herbaceous marshes and bogs are Acrostichum aureum,
Carex graeffeana, Cyclosorus interruptus, Eleocharis dulcis, Paspalum orb iculare and
Rhynchospora corymbosa. The separation of coastal marsh from montane marsh is
somewhat artificial, since both are dominated by the same species, Eleocharis dulcis.
However, two species found in coastal marsh (Acrostichum and Cyclosorus) are rare or
absent in montane marsh. Montane bog, dominated by species of Carex and Paspalum,
is known only from elevations of over 1,500 metres on Savai'i.

Of the wetlands with woody vegetation, swamp forest occurs in sites where the soil is
saturated with fresh water, typically inland and even in montane areas. Characteristic
species include Barringtonia samoensis, Erythrina fusca, Hibiscus tiliaceus, Inocarpus
fagifer, Kleinhovia hospita, Palaquium stehlinii, Pandanus turritus and Terminalia richii.
Pandanus turritus is generally the dominant species in the swamp forest in montane
craters. In eastern Upolu, there is an unusual type of mixed upland swamp forest in
which lowland rain forest species and swamp forest species grow side by side.

Mangroves are confined to the two large islands, generally occurring in small stands
along tidal inlets, at river mouths or as a narrow fringe along muddy and sandy shores
where there is some offshore protection from extreme wave action. Two main
communities are recognized; mangrove forest consisting of almost pure stands of
Bruguiera gymnorrhiza, and mangrove scrub (rarely more than 5 m high) consisting of a
mixture of both Rhizophora (mangle) samoensis and Bruguiera. There is also a single
small stand (less than 1 ha) of Xylocarpus moluccensis on white sand substrate at a
stream mouth near Sala'ilua on Savai'i.

Almost all of the wetlands in Western Samoa have been disturbed to some extent either
directly by human activities, cyclone damage or through the introduction of pests. The
cutting and in-filling of mangroves especially for human settlements and road
construction has now left much of Samoa's mangrove vegetation badly degraded. The
severe cyclones of the early 1990’s and 2004 affected many of the wetland areas,
especially herbaceous marshes along shores which were damaged by salt water
incursions.
The Samoa NBSAP identifies wetland ecosystems as follows: mangrove forests;
freshwater lake; herbaceous marsh; mixed lowland species swamp forest and mixed
upland swamp forest. All are considered to be high priorities for conservation based on
rarity and threats in Samoa. Two wetland ecosystems (mixed lowland species swamp
forest, mixed upland species swamp forest) were considered to be of global importance
because of their rarity, endangered status or presence of endemic species.

Several of these wetland ecosystems have been altered, with the following wetlands now
considered to be of national and global significance

Coastal Marsh
Apolimafou Marsh, Upolu
A small herbaceous marsh at the west end of Upolu. Around half of this marsh has been
cleared by the village for land settlement. A conservation programme is underway for its
rehabilitation and protection as a priority conservation area.

Falealupo Marshes (Cape Mulinu'u), Savai'i

Two areas of coastal marsh at the extreme western end of Savai'i, degraded by past
exploitation and human settlement, and severely damaged by cyclones in the early
1990’s. The preservation of the village forest under a covenant agreement has increased
awareness on the conservation importance of this area. The southern marsh was
identified as a priority site for conservation in the NBSAP.

Matautu-Satoalepai Marsh, Savai'i

A large partially degraded marsh near Matautu Bay at the northern tip of Savai'i. The site
is considered a priority site for wetland conservation.

Montane Marsh
Mount Le Pu'e Lake and Marsh, Upolu
A small lake and marsh in a volcanic crater, protected in the 0 Le Pupu Pu'e National
Park (2,857 ha; established 1978).

Lake Lanoto'o, Lake Lanoata'ata and Lake Lanoanea, Upolu

Three small lakes with fringing marshes in volcanic craters in the central highlands of
Upolu. Lake Lanoto'o is the largest freshwater lake in Western Samoa. The area was
declared as a National Park in 2004 (1161 acres with the lake Lanotoo at 27.15 acres)

Central Savaii Upland Forests

This proposed National Park will include al the crater lakes of Lake Mafane, Lake
Mautalano and Olo Manu Uta in Savaii. The craters have small lakes with fringing
marshes in volcanic craters.

Montane Bog
Mount Silisili Bog, Savai'i
A small montane bog near the summit of Mount Silisili (1,858 m); the only significant
montane bog in Western Samoa. The area is part of the Aopo Upland Forest
Community-based Conservation Area.

Marine Protected Areas and Mangrove Forests

Safata Marine Protected Area, Upolu
The MPA includes the Safata Bay mangrove forest and the previously protected
Saanapu’Sataoa Mangrove Conservation Areas. The mangrove forests remains in a
fairly healthy state, but is threatened by increasing encroachment from nearby villages.
The MPA was established as part of a GEF Medium Size Project between 1999-2003 in
collaboration with the Government of Samoa.

Apia Mangroves, Upolu

A narrow strip of mangrove scrub along the north coast of Upolu, west of Apia harbour.
The largest area of mangroves in Samoa, but degraded because of its location in the
main urban area. The site is still of some importance, and is being considered for
rehabilitation by the Division of Environment and Conservation and a possible Ramsar
site.

Aleipata Marine Protected Area, Upolu

The MPA is amongst the 2 established among with Safata under the GEF MSP from
1999-2003. The MPA is currently managed by District Committee in partnership with the
Division of Environment and Conservation of the MNRE. The area includes l patch of
mangrove scrub at the east end of Upolu, degraded by human settlement.

Swamp Forest
Lalomauga Swamp Forest, Upolu
A small patch of degraded swamp forest near the northeast coast of Upolu. Most of the
original swamp is covered with village plantations, and there is an electricity power plant
in the swamp which supplies the eastern coast of the island.

Vaipu Swamp Forest, Upolu

A large area of swamp forest in the uplands of eastern Upolu, with an unusual mixture of
lowland rain forest and swamp forest species.

Reservoirs
Afulilo Dam
Lake Lanutoo National Park is the first wetland specific protected area, while significant
components of mangroves and associated inshore reef wetlands components were
considered priority ecosystems during the establishment of the Aleipata and Safata
MPA’s. O le Pupu-Pu’e National Park has within it Crater Lake of Mt.

Le Pu’e
The MNRE has also established a Watershed Resources Division which now includes
the Watershed Management Unit that is working to protect water catchment areas under
the Water Catchment Protection Regulation.

Wetland Research
No research relating specifically to wetlands has been carried out in Samoa, and most of
the information that is available has been derived from general surveys of the terrestrial
ecosystems (e.g. 011ier et al., 1979; Dahl, 1980; KRTA Limited, 1988; Pearsall and
Whistler, 1991; Parks, 1992); Schuster, et al , 1996) and marine ecosystems (e.g. Bell,
1985; Andrews and Holthus, 1989; Zann, 1991, Lovell and Toloa 2001,) and as part of
the Aleipata and Safata MPA’s. . Whistler (1992) and Parks (1992) provide the most
comprehensive accounts of the flora of Western Samoa's wetlands, while Vodonaivalu
(1982) Sua (1988), Schuster (1993) summarize information on the mangrove
communities.

Wetland Area Legislation

There is no specific legislation concerning wetland conservation in Western Samoa,
although areas with potential for conservation come under the auspices of the Lands and
Environment Act (1989) National Parks and Reserves Act (1974), Policy and legislation
relating to the establishment and administration of protected areas have recently been
summarized by IUCN (1991).

The Forestry Act (1967) controls the conservation of water catchment areas under the
Regulation on Water Catchment Protection (1992). The exploitation of marine resources
is regulated through the Fisheries Protection Act (1972) and the Exclusive Economic
Zone Act (1977), while the protection of traditional fisheries is under the and the
Fisheries Regulations By Laws 1996. The Fish Dynamiting Act (1972) prohibits all use of
dynamite for fishing.

The Protection of Wild Birds Regulation, imposed in 1981 under the Animal Ordinance of
1910 and amended in 1989, gives total protection to 15 species of birds and partial
protection to three types of pigeon for which there are open seasons. Three resident
waterbirds are covered by the schedule, namely the Pacific Black Duck (Anas
superciliosa), White-browed Crake (Porzana cinerea) and Spotless Crake (Porzana
tabuensis).

At international level, Samoa has ratified the Convention on the Conservation of Nature
in the South Pacific (Apia Convention) and the Convention for the Protection of the
Natural Resources and Environment of the South Pacific (SPREP Convention), the
Convention on Biological Diversity, the World Heritage Convention, and Convention on
Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat (Ramsar
Convention).

Wetland Area Administration

With over 80% of Samoa's land under customary ownership, the majority of wetlands are
administered by village councils and individuals. The Lands and Environment Act (1989)
gives the right to the Government to take customary land for conservation purposes if
there is a need to protect specific sites, but this right has not yet been used for wetland
conservation. The 0 Le Pupu Pu'e National Park and Lake Lanutoo National Parks are
administered by the Division of Environment and Conservation, Department of Lands
and Environment.

Organizations involved with Wetlands

Samoan Government
• Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment: Division of Environment and
Conservation; Forestry Division and Water Resources Division
Responsible for administration of the Lands and Environment Act (1989),
National Parks and Reserves Act (1974); Forestry Act 1967 and Water
Catchment Protection Regulation 1992 and all matters concerning the protection
and conservation of the environment.

• Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries: Fisheries Division: Responsible for the

administration of the Traditional Fisheries Reserve By Laws

Non-governmental Organizations
• 0 Le Siosiomaga Society
• METI (Matuaileoo Environmental Trust Inc.)
• Conservation International: provide financial support for some actions within the
Aleipata and Safata MPA’s
Intergovernmental Organisations
• South Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP)

REFERENCES
Andrews, G.J. & Holthus, P.F. (1989). Marine Environment Survey: Proposed Aleipata
Islands National Park, Western Samoa. South Pacific Regional Environment
Programme. South Pacific Commission, Noumea, New Caledonia. 68 pp.

Anon. (1976). Lake Lanoto'o - A project to establish a National Park in Western Samoa.
Unpublished report.

Anon. (1985). Western Samoa. In: Thomas, P.EJ. (ed.), Report of the Third South Pacific
National Parks and Reserves Conference. Volume III. Country Reviews. South Pacific
Commission, Noumea, New Caledonia.

Anon. (1989). Western Samoa Country Review. Report presented at the Fourth South
Pacific Conference on Nature Conservation and Protected Areas, Port Vila, Vanuatu,
September 1989. SPREP/IUCN.

Bell, L.A.J. (1985). Coastal Zone Management in Western Samoa. In: Thomas, P.EJ.
(ed.), Report of the Third South Pacific National Parks and Reserves Conference.
Volume II. Collected Key Issues and Case Study Papers: 57-73. South Pacific
Commission, Noumea, New Caledonia.

Dahl, A.L. (1980). Regional Ecosystems Survey of the South Pacific Area. SPC
Technical Paper No. 179. South Pacific Commission, Noumea, New Caledonia.

Dahl, A.L. (1986). Review of the Protected Areas System in Oceania. UNEP & IUCN
Commission on National Parks and Protected Areas, Gland, Switzerland.

DEC, 2001; Samoa National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, Samoa

Eaton, P. (1985). Land Tenure and Conservation: Protected Areas in the South Pacific.
SPREP Topic Review No. 17. South Pacific Commission, Noumea. 103 pp.

Firth, N.W. & Darby d'E.C. (1989). Environmental Planning for Tourism in Western
Samoa. Case Study 6. Report presented at the Fourth South Pacific Conference on
Nature Conservation and Protected Areas, Port Vila, Vanuatu, September 1989.
SPREP/IUCN.

Hay, R. (1985). Bird Conservation in the Pacific Islands. SPREP Topic Review No. 25
(ICBP Study Report No. 7). South Pacific Commission, Noumea, New Caledonia. (ICBP,
Cambridge, U.K).

Holloway, C.W. & Floyd, C.H. (1975). A National Parks System for Western Samoa.
United Nations Development Advisory Team, Suva, Fiji.

IUCN (1991). IUCN Directory of Protected Areas in Oceania. Prepared by the World
Conservation Monitoring Centre. IUCN, Gland, Switzerland and Cambridge, U.K.
IUCN; 2002 “Marine Biodiversity Assessment Baseline Survey Report: Aleipata MPA”
Samoa
KRTA Limited (1988). Environmental Planning for Tourism in Western Samoa. Report to
the Government of Western Samoa and South Pacific Regional Environment
Programme. KRTA Limited, Auckland and Wellington, New Zealand.

Mayr, E. (1945). Birds of the Southwest Pacific. The Macmillan Company, New York.
316 pp.

Oilier, C.D., Whistler, W.A. & Amerson, A.B. (1979). 0 le Pupu-Pu'e National Park.
United Nations Development Advisory Team, Suva, Fiji.

MNRE: Lands Survey and Environment (Environment Impact Assessment) Regulations

1999, Samoa

MNRE; 2002; Aleipata Marine Protected Area; Management Plan

MNRE; 2007; Coastal Infrastructure Management Plan”, Samoa

MOF, 2007, Tabulation Report; Population and Housing Census 2006; Statistics
Department, Samoa

Morton, J. et al (1988) The Shore Ecology of Upolu; Fisheries Division, Ministry of

Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries; New Zealand

Parks, G. (1992). Conservation of Biological Diversity in the Coastal Lowlands of

Parks, G., Whistler, W.A., Hay, R. & Lovegrove. (1992). The National Ecological Survey
of Western Samoa. Ministry of External Relations and Trade, Apia, Western Samoa.

Pearsall, S.H. & Whistler, W.A. (1991). Terrestrial Ecosystem Mapping for Western
Samoa. Report prepared for the Government of Western Samoa. South Pacific Regional
Environment Programme, Noumea, New Caledonia, and East-West Center, Environment
and Policy Institute, Honolulu, Hawaii.

Pearsall, S.H. (1989). A System of Representative Natural Areas for Western Samoa.
Case Study 29. Report presented at the Fourth South Pacific Conference on Nature
Conservation and Protected Areas, Port Vila, Vanuatu, September 1989. SPREP/IUCN.
Pearsall, S.H. (1991). Western Samoa. In: a series of country and island databases
prepared for The Nature Conservancy's South Pacific Regional Biodiversity Assessment)
The Nature Conservancy, Honolulu, Hawaii.

Pratt, H.D., Bruner, P.L. & Berrett, D.G. (1987). A Field Guide to the Birds of Hawaii and
the Tropical Pacific. Princeton University Press, Princeton, U.S.A.
PUMA; 2002; Coastal Hazard Database 2000, Samoa

Scott, D. A (ed) 1993. A Directory of Wetlands in Oceania, IWRB, Slimbridge, UK and

AWB, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Schuster, C; et al (1996). The National Ecological Survey of Upland Forests of Samoa,

Ministry of External Affairs and Trade, NZ, Apia, Samoa

Sua, T.S. (1988). Information Note on the Mangroves of Western Samoa. Report
presented at the Working Group Meeting for the Regional Use of Mangroves in the
Pacific Island Region. Apia, Western Samoa, February 1988.

TCSP (1990). Guidelines for the Integration of Tourism Development and Environmental
Protection in the South Pacific. Tourism Council of the South Pacific, Suva, Fiji.

UNEP/IUCN (1988). Coral Reefs of the World. Volume 3: Central and Western Pacific.
UNEP Regional Seas Directories and Bibliographies. IUCN, Gland, Switzerland and
Cambridge, U.K./UNEP, Nairobi, Kenya.

Watling, D. & Talbot-Kelly, C. (1982). Birds of Fiji, Tonga, and Samoa. Milwood Press,
Whistler, W.A. (1992). Vegetation of Tonga and Samoa. Pacific Science 46(2): 159-178.
Wright, A.C.S; 1963; Soils and Land Use of Samoa; NZ Department of Scientific and
Industrial Research ; New Zealand

Zann, L. (1991). Inshore Resources of Upolu, Western Samoa. Coastal Inventory and
Fisheries Database. FAO/UNDP SAM/89/002 Field Report No. 5.
 List of Wetlands of National Significance

SiteID Wetland Name

AM.685.1 Apolimafou Marsh
LA.685.2 Lakes and Marshes of Aleipata Uplands
LL.685.3 Lake Lanoto'o National Park
LM.685.4 Lake Mafane and Lake Mautalano and Olo Manu Uta
MS.685.5 Mount Silisili Bog
SM.685.6 Safata Marine Protected Area
VP.685.7 Vaipu Swamp Forest

Apolimafou Marsh

Wetland Type: Marine/Coastal

Latitude: 13.52'S
Longitude: 172.04'W
Country: Samoa
General Location: Near the extreme western tip of Upolu
Elevation (m): Near sea level
AreaSize (ha): 32.1999
General Overview of the Site: An area of herbaceous marsh at the west end of Upolu;
the least disturbed of any coastal marsh in Western Samoa.

Ramsar Criteria for Inclusion:

Group A Group A Group A Group A Group B Group B Group B Group B Group B
Criteria 1 Criteria 2 Criteria 3 Criteria 4 Criteria 5 Criteria 6 Criteria 7 Criteria 8 Criteria 9

Physical Features of the site: A small area of freshwater marsh on the coastal
lowlands at the west end of Upolu. The site lies adjacent to coconut plantations.

Physical Features of the Catchment Area: No information

Hydrological Values: No information.
General Ecological Features: Herbaceous marsh with Eleocharis dulcis and
Cyclosorus interruptus. Erythrina fusca and Pandanus tectorius are found in isolated
clumps along the edges of the marsh. Ludwigia octovalvis dominates in areas of
disturbed vegetation along the roads bordering and crossing the wetland.

Noteworthy Flora: An excellent example of a lowland herbaceous marsh.

Noteworthy Fauna: The Pacific Black Duck (Anas superciliosa) and Purple Swamphen
(Porphyrio porphyrio) occur in the marsh.
Social and Cultural Values: No information.
Land Ownership / Tenure: Customary ownership.
Land Uses: No information.
Factors affecting the site's ecological values: The marsh is situated directly behind a
village and is threatened by further expansion of the village. Some reduction in water
supply may have occurred as a result of agricultural activities in the surrounding area.
There has been some disturbance to the marsh vegetation along a road which crosses
the marsh.
Conservation Measures Taken: None.
Conservation Measures Proposed: Recommended for designation as a nature reserve
by Holloway and Floyd (1975), and identified as a priority site for conservation by Dahl
(1980) and Pearsall and Whistler (1991). Parks (1992) identified the marsh as a Grade 2
site.

Existing scientific research with references: No information

Current communication / public education programs: No information
Current recreation / tourism: No information
Management Authority: No information.
References Cited: Anon (1985); Dahl (1980); Holloway & Floyd (1975); Parks (1992);
Pearsall & Whistler (1991).

Lakes and Marshes of Aleipata Uplands

Wetland Type: Inland Wetlands

Latitude: 14.00'S
Longitude: 171.27'W
Country: Samoa
General Location: In the eastern highlands of Upolu
Elevation (m): 210-550 m
AreaSize (ha): 32.3746
General Overview of the Site: A series of small lakes and herbaceous marshes in a
chain of volcanic craters in the Aleipata Uplands of eastern Upolu, mostly protected from
human impact because of their high altitude.

Ramsar Criteria for Inclusion:

Group A Group A Group A Group A Group B Group B Group B Group B Group B
Criteria 1 Criteria 2 Criteria 3 Criteria 4 Criteria 5 Criteria 6 Criteria 7 Criteria 8 Criteria 9

√ √ √
Physical Features of the site: The Aleipata uplands oe eastern Upolu comprise a long
broad ridge covered with lowland rain forest. There are ten small volcanic craters along
the ridge crest, at least seven of which contain interesting wetlands. Olomaga, Lanoto
and Savaii craters contain freshwater lakes with a narrow fringe of herbaceous marsh
and patches of Pandanus turritus swamp forest; Seuga, Tiatal and Olomaga craters
contain patches of Pandanus turritus swamp forst; and Latalua crater contains a small
herbaceous marsh.

Physical Features of the Catchment Area: No information

Hydrological Values: No information
General Ecological Features: Herbaceous marsh with Eleocharis dukis, swamp forst
dominated by Pandanus turritus.

Noteworthy Flora: Pandanus turritus swamp forest.

Noteworthy Fauna: No information is available on the wetland fauna. The surrounding
forests are reputed to support a particularly rich and varied bird life.

Social and Cultural Values: No information

Land Ownership / Tenure: Customary Ownership
Land Uses: None at the wetlands
Factors affecting the site's ecological values: There is little if any disturbance at the
wetland. The lowland rain forest in this area was severely damaged by Hurricane Ofa in
1990 and again by Hurricane Val in 1991, and the vegetation now consists mainly of
weeds and secondary growth.

Conservation Measures Taken: None

Conservation Measures Proposed: The central and eastern portions of the Aleipata
Uplands were recommended for designation as a national park by Holloway and Floyd
(1975), Dahl (1980), Anon (1985) and KRTA Limited (1988), and were identified as a
priority site for conservation by Pearsal and Whistler (1991). The proposed national park
(Lake Olomaga National Park) covers 1,300 ha and includes all the main wetlands.

Existing scientific research with references: No information

Current communication / public education programs: No information
Current recreation / tourism: No information
Management Authority: No information
References Cited: Anon (1985); Dahl (1980); Holloway & Floyd (1975); KRTA Limited
(1988); Persall & Whistler (1991)

Lake Lanoto'o National Park

Wetland Type: Inland Wetlands

Latitude: 13.45'S
Longitude: 171.50'W
Country: Samoa
General Location: In the central highlands of Upolu, 15.8 Kilometre Southwest of Apia
Elevation (m): 801
AreaSize (ha): 469.949
General Overview of the Site: The National park, declared in May 2003, includes Lakes
Lanoto’o’, Lanoata’ata and Lanoanea, three small crater lakes with fringing herbaceous
marsh and Pandanus turritus swamp forest, in the central highlands of Upolu. The lakes
are among the few remaining near-pristine lakes in Samoa, and are critical to
maintaining the health of the watershed of the capital city, Apia.

Ramsar Criteria for Inclusion:

Group A Group A Group A Group A Group B Group B Group B Group B Group B
Criteria 1 Criteria 2 Criteria 3 Criteria 4 Criteria 5 Criteria 6 Criteria 7 Criteria 8 Criteria 9

√ √ √

Physical Features of the site: Lake Lanoto'o, Lake Lanoata'ata and Lake Lanoanea
are small freshwater lakes inside steep-sided volcanic craters. The open water areas are
surrounded by a narrow fringe of herbaceous swamp and Pandanus swamp forest. Lake
Lanoto'o is the largest lake in Samoa.

Land capability of the National Park.

• Flat to rolling, well to somewhat excessively drain, land without moisture deficit. Soils
have low natural nutrient levels, up to 25% stones and in some case had slight erosion
occur under cultivation.

• 10% of park area is hilly well drained land without moisture deficit. Soils have low to
medium natural nutrients levels and more than 50% stones at the surface with little
erosion under cultivation.

• An estimate 20%of the area is classified as flat to rolling, well drained uplands without
moisture deficit. Soils have low natural nutrient levels with erosion which can also be
happening because of cultivation.

• There are also areas which are hilly and steep and have moderate to severe erosion
potential.

• More than 50% of this National Park is classified as unsuitable for agriculture or
forestry, which means its very steep and hilly with sever potential to erosion.

Geology Parent material Salani volcanic, Annual Rainfall

1990 Total 3853.1 mean rainfall 321.1
1991 total 4275.4 mean rainfall 356.3
1992 total 4822.8 mean rainfall 401.9
1993 total 4562.8 mean rainfall 380.2
1994 total 6724.8 mean rainfall 560.4
1995 total 4149 mean rainfall 345.8
1996 total 4289.2 mean rainfall 357.4
1997 total 4974.3 mean rainfall 414.5
 1998 total 366.3 mean rainfall 305.2
1999 total 4670.2 mean rainfall 389.2
2000 total 4345.1 mean rainfall 362.1
2001 total 3889.5 mean rainfall 324.1
2002 total 3939.7 mean rainfall 328.3
2003 total 2885.7 mean rainfall 240.5
2004 total 3336.2 mean rainfall 278
2005 total 4289.1 mean rainfall 357.4

Physical Features of the Catchment Area: Same as Physical Features of the Site
Hydrological Values: The region is an important water catchment area, and includes
the headwaters of the Fuluasou river system which flows north to Apia.

General Ecological Features: Crater lakes with herbaceous swamp dominated by

Eleocharis dulcis, and upland swamp forest dominated by Pandanus turritus. Montane
rainforest around the lakes includes species such as Dysoxylum huntii, Cyathea spp.,
Hibiscus tiliaceus, Pometia pinnata and Syzygium spp. The vegetation type is
intermediate between lowland forest and montane forest. Cyclones of the early 1990’s
(Ofa and Val) and more recently cyclone Heta of 2004, has left some of the site highly
damage. The dominate vegetation type of the open consist of Cyathea affinis, Cyathea
lunulata, Clinostigma cf. oncorhyncha, Myristica hypagyraea, and Trichospermum richii.
The abundance of the two fern species and Trichospermumum richii are indicators of
server disturbances, while the other two species are most likely survivors relatively
adapted to cyclones (Refer to Appendix 2)

• 227.1 hectare of the National Park is open forest;

• 242.1 hectare is forest plantation, consisting of Pinus caribaea, Paraserianthes

falcataria and Pometia pinnata

• 359.1 hectares (estimate) is montane rainforest;

• 93.91 hectares is disturbed secondary forest, and

• 15.69 hectares is none native forest.

Noteworthy Flora: Vaoutu’utu used to make traditional hats, and acts as a barrier to
stop erosion from land.

• Fasa (Pandanus tectorius) fruits are used for making leis, and roots protect small fish
from predators

• Masame (Glochidion ramiflorum), inner barken taken internally to induce late menstrual
flow.

• Fue laufao (Epipremnum pinnatum), is an endemic creeper

• ‘U’unu (Sarcopygme pacifica), is an endemic genus (all three species)

• Vi vao, (Reynoldia pleiosperma) is an endemic species.

Noteworthy Fauna: The site was one of ten national areas recommended for the
conservation of birds by Park et. al. (1992). The lake is an important area for the Pacific
Black Duck (Anas superciliosa) and Spotless Crake or sooty rail (Porzana tabuensis).
The forests contain most of Samoa's endemic bird species, notably the endangered
Tooth-billed Pigeon (Didunculus strigirostris) manumea, Samoan Triller (Lalage sharpei)
and Mao (Gymnomyza samoensis) and rare bird species including the Manu’ai Pa’u
La’au (Red Headed Parrot Finch), and Manutagi (Crimson Crowned Fruit Dove), all
endemic to Samoa. Around the Lake, bird species have established a stable community
after destructions of habitat from the early 1990s’ cyclones and Heta in 2004. Samoan
Endemic Birds found at the area, Tooth-billed pigeon, Mao, Samoan starling, Flat billed
kingfisher, Samoan whistler, and Samoan broadbill. Endemic Subspecies; White rump
swiftlet, white throat pigeon, and many other bird species that contribute to the dispersal
mechanism

Social and Cultural Values: None

Land Ownership / Tenure:
a) within the Ramsar site: Half of Lake Lanoto'o National Park is Government Land and
half is Customary Land. Tenure of the land consists of:
• Government Land - approximately 69%,
• Customary Land - 26%
• Freehold Land – 5%

b) in the surrounding area: Surrounding areas are partly Government Land, partly
Customary Land and partly private (freehold). Northwest from the centre of the National
Park is all government land, From North East to south west of the national park boundary
is all customary land

Land Uses:

a) within the Ramsar site: None. The area is a conservation reserve and important water
source for the capital city of Apia.

b) in the surroundings/catchment: Cattle farms and small-scale plantations

Factors affecting the site's ecological values:

a) within the Ramsar site: Goldfish (Carassius auratus) were introduced into Lake
Lanoto'o in about 1900 and are thriving.

b) in the surrounding area: The surrounding forests are being cleared for shifting
agriculture and plantations, particularly in the northwest around Lake Lanoata'ata and
Lake Lanoanea, and the entire area was badly affected by Hurricanes Ofa in 1990 , Val
in 1991 and Heta in 2004. There are also some cattle farms in the area

Conservation Measures Taken: On 29 May 2003 Samoa’s Minister of Natural

Resources and Environment Tagaloa Sale Tagaloa announced the creation of this
national park and that the site was Samoa’s first Wetland of International Importance.

Conservation Measures Proposed: Funds are being sought to assist with the
preparation of a plan of management for the national park in consultation with the local
people, for further surveys, track improvement and for a range of education and public
awareness raising activities.

Existing scientific research with references: None

Current communication / public education programs: e.g. visitors’ centre,
observation hides and nature trails, information booklets, facilities for school visits, etc.
School field-trips occasionally visit the lakes, and boy-scouts and girl-guides sometimes
camp in the area. In May 2003, a successful nationwide awareness campaign was
carried out to highlight the Ramsar designate status of the lake.

Current recreation / tourism: Eco-tourism and outdoor recreation activities, if

controlled, could generate income for the local people and help to maintain the
ecosystem in its natural condition. The lakes are occasionally visited by tourists (mainly
naturalists), and have good potential for tourism. KRTA Limited (1988) made various
recommendations concerning tourist development in the area, including the provision of
nature trails.

Management Authority: The Division of Environment and Conservation (DEC) of the

MNRE has responsibility for management.

References Cited: Sources: Large portions of this RIS are based or, or directly quoted
from the description of this site done by Cedric Schuster in A Directory of Wetlands in
Oceania, (International Waterfowl and Wetlands Research Bureau, Scott. D.A, editor,
1993).

Government of Samoa. 2001. Keep the Remainder of the Basket: Samoa’s Biodiversity
Strategy and Action Plan. Government of Samoa, Apia, 2001.

Lake Mafane and Lake Mautalano and Olo

Wetland Type: Inland Wetlands

Latitude: 13.39'S
Longitude: 172.20'W
Country: Samoa
General Location: In the eastern highlands of Savai'i.
Elevation (m): 600-1000
AreaSize (ha): 6
General Overview of the Site: Two crater lakes with fringing marshes and a large area
of herbaceous marsh in the eastern highlands of Savai'i, still in a healthy, relatively
undisturbed condition and well protected from human disturbance because of their
isolated location.

Ramsar Criteria for Inclusion:

Group A Group A Group A Group A Group B Group B Group B Group B Group B
Criteria 1 Criteria 2 Criteria 3 Criteria 4 Criteria 5 Criteria 6 Criteria 7 Criteria 8 Criteria 9

√
Physical Features of the site: Lake Mafane (approximately 50 ha) and Lake
Mautalano (a few ha) are small freshwater lakes with fringing herbaceous marshes,
situated in steep-sided volcanic craters about 4 km apart. The crater rims rise to peaks at
1,000 and 716 m respectively. Olo Manu Uta Marsh (Maugaloa Marsh) is a large
herbaceous marsh situated at 625 m above sea level on the southwestern slopes of
Mount Olo Manu Uta, east of Mount Maugaloa. Other small volcanic craters further west
along the crest of Savai'i contain smaller and as yet unmapped wetlands.

Physical Features of the Catchment Area: No information

Hydrological Values: No information.
General Ecological Features: Herbaceous marsh with Eleocharis dulcis and
Rhynchospora corymbosa. The surrounding highlands are covered in montane rain
forest and cloud forest.

Noteworthy Flora: No information.

Noteworthy Fauna: No information.

Social and Cultural Values: No information.
Land Ownership / Tenure: Lake Mafane and Lake Mautalano are partly on public land
and partly under customary ownership; Olo Manu Uta Marsh is situated entirely on public
land.

Land Uses: None. The surrounding forests are scarcely if ever used by their customary
owners.
Factors affecting the site's ecological values: None known at the wetlands. The
upland forests on northern exposures were severely damaged by Hurricane Ofa in 1990
and Hurricane Val in 1991.

Conservation Measures Taken: None

Conservation Measures Proposed: Lake Mafane and Olo Manu Uta Marsh were
recommended for designation as nature reserves by Holloway and Floyd (1975), while
Lake Mautalano was recommended for designation as a strict nature reserve, closed to
the general public. All three sites were identified as priority areas for conservation by
Dahl (1980). KRTA Limited (1988) recommended extending the boundaries of the
proposed Mount Silisili National Park to include the three wetlands. It was suggested that
the wetlands be grouped within a buffer zone and incorporated into the National Park,
together with a corridor about 2,000 m in width linking them to the Silisili highlands.
Pearsall and Whistler (1991) also recommended that the wetlands be included with the
Silisili highlands in a single large protected area.

Existing scientific research with references: No information

Current communication / public education programs: No information
Current recreation / tourism: No information
Management Authority: No information.
References Cited: Anon (1985); Dahl (1980); Holloway & Floyd (1975); KRTA Limited
(1988); Pearsall & Whistler (1991).

Mount Silisili Bog

Wetland Type: Inland Wetlands

Latitude: 13.37'S
Longitude: 172.29'W
Country: Samoa
General Location: In the central highlands of Savaii
Elevation (m): Over 1,500 m
AreaSize (ha): 0.47
General Overview of the Site: A montane bog dominated by species of Carex; the only
bog of this type in Western Samoa.

Ramsar Criteria for Inclusion:

Group A Group A Group A Group A Group B Group B Group B Group B Group B
Criteria 1 Criteria 2 Criteria 3 Criteria 4 Criteria 5 Criteria 6 Criteria 7 Criteria 8 Criteria 9

√ √ √

Physical Features of the site: A small montane bog surrounded by cloud forest near
the summit of Mount Silisili (1,858 m).

Physical Features of the Catchment Area: No information

Hydrological Values: No information.
General Ecological Features: The bog vegetation is dominated by species of Carex.
Noteworthy Flora: A unique wetland plant community in Western Samoa. The
surrounding cloud forests are very rich in endemic species, with approximately 53% of
species endemic compared to 25-33% for the islands as a whole.

Noteworthy Fauna: The White-browed Crake (Porzana cinerea) and Spotless Crake
(Porzana tabuensis) are known to occur in the area. There is a slight possibility that the
endemic Samoan Woodhen (Gallinula (Pareudiastes) pacifica) could still survive in the
moist montane forests and bogs of central Savai'i, although there are no confirmed
reports since 1873. The montane forests of Savai'i (above 900 m) are also home to the
endemic Samoan White-eye (Zosterops samoensis), known only from this island. Other
interesting birds of the cloud forest include the endangered Tooth-billed Pigeon
(Didunculus stn. girostris), the Friendly Ground-Dove (Gallicolumba stairii), the Island
Thrush (Turdus poliocephalus), the rare Mao (Gymnomyza samoensis) and an endemic
subspecies of the Red-headed Parrot-finch (Erythrura cyaneovirens gaughrani).

Social and Cultural Values: No information.

Land Ownership / Tenure: The wetland and surrounding areas are almost entirely
under customary ownership.

Land Uses: None. There is no human habitation in the area.

Factors affecting the site's ecological values: None known.
Conservation Measures Taken: None.

Conservation Measures Proposed: The central highlands of Savai'i have frequently

been recommended for reserve status, but no action has been taken because the
majority of the land is under customary ownership. Holloway and Floyd (1975)
recommended the establishment of a large national park (8,900 ha) and this was
supported by Dahl (1980) and Hay (1985). KRTA Limited (1988) endorsed the view that
the establishment of the proposed Silisili National Park was of the highest priority, and
proposed extending the boundaries to include Lake Mafane, Lake Mautalano and Olo
Manu Uta Marsh to the east. Pearsall and Whistler (1991) similarly recommend the
establishment of a large reserve encompassing all of the central highlands of Savai'i as
well as a corridor of forest extending almost down to the south coast.

Existing scientific research with references: No information

Current communication / public education programs: No information
Current recreation / tourism: No information
Management Authority: No information.
References Cited: Anon (1985); Dahl (1980); Hay (1985); Holloway & Floyd (1975);
KRTA Limited (1988); Parks et al. (1992); Pearsall & Whistler (1991); Whistler (1992).

Safata Marine Protected Area

Wetland Type: Marine/Coastal

Latitude: 13°59'S
Longitude: 171°52'W
Country: Samoa
General Location: On the west side of Safata Bay on the south coast of Upolu
Elevation (m): Sea level.
AreaSize (ha): 100.993
General Overview of the Site: An area of estuarine mangrove forest, important as a
nursery ground for mullet. The village that owns the site is eager to preserve it in its
natural state.

Physical features: A large stand of mangrove forest bordering the tidal estuary of the
Leaf River. In 1990, Hurricane Ofa deposited a fair amount of sand in the estuary mouth,
but otherwise the ecosystem remains in good condition. One of Western Samoa's finest
stands of coastal forest is found across the estuary from the mangrove forest.
Ramsar Criteria for Inclusion:
Group A Group A Group A Group A Group B Group B Group B Group B Group B
Criteria 1 Criteria 2 Criteria 3 Criteria 4 Criteria 5 Criteria 6 Criteria 7 Criteria 8 Criteria 9

√ √ √

Physical Features of the site: A large stand of mangrove forest bordering the tidal
estuary mouth, but otherwise the ecosystem remains in good condition. One of Western
Samoa's finest stands of coastal forest is found across the estuary from the mangrove
forest.

Physical Features of the Catchment Area: formation

Hydrological Values: The mangrove forest is an important nursery ground for a wide
variety of fish species including mullet (Mugil spp.).

General Ecological Features: Mangrove forest dominated by Bruguiera gymnorrhiza

with some Rhizophora (mangle) samoensis. Other species present include the ferns
Acrostichum aureum and Humata heterophylla, and Barringtonia asiatica. The nearby
coastal forest is dominated by Diospyros elliptica, D. samoensis and Syzygium spp.

Noteworthy Flora: Trichomanes spp. are endemic to the forest, and the high density of
epiphytes is of special interest.

Noteworthy Fauna: Birds recorded at the site include Pacific Reef Heron (Egretta
sacra), Pacific Black Duck (ulnas superciliosa), Pacific Golden Plover (Pluvialis fulva),
Purple-capped ruit-Dove (Ptilinopus poiphyraceus), Samoan Whistler (Lalage sharpen),
Samoan Broadbill (Myiagra albiventris) and Cardinal Honeyeater (Myzomela cardinalis).
Flying foxes (Pteropus sp.) also occur in the mangroves. Common invertebrates include
the mangrove crab Scylla paramamosian and crabs of the genus Uca.

Social and Cultural Values: No information.

Land Ownership / Tenure: The wetland and surrounding areas are entirely under
customary ownership.

Land Uses: Fishing; harvesting of crabs. Villages and plantations in surrounding areas.
Factors affecting the site's ecological values: The site is threatened by forest
clearance and landfill for human settlement, and pollution. Feral pigs cause some
damage to the mangroves.

Conservation Measures Taken: The inhabitants of Sa'anapu village, in collaboration

with the Division of Environment and Conservation, have banned dynamiting and fish
poisoning in the wetland, and have established quota for crab catchers. Fishermen from
neighboring villages are prohibited from fishing in the mangroves.

Conservation Measures Proposed: Holloway and Floyd (1975) recommended that the
site be protected as a nature reserve, and this was supported by Dahl (1980). Pearsall
and Whistler (1991) listed the Sa'anapu-Sataoa Mangrove Forest along with nearby
coastal rain forest in their top ten priority sites for conservation in Western Samoa, and
Parks (1992) identified the mangrove forest as a Grade 1 Site for conservation. The
forest has recently been proposed as a Conservation Area to be established with funding
from the Global Environment Facility under the guidance of the South Pacific Regional
Environment Programme (SPREP).

Existing scientific research with references: The Division of Environment and

Conservation is currently investigating the possibilities for sustainable utilization of the
mangrove forest as a way of promoting its conservation.

Current communication / public education programs: Conservation of mangroves

has become an important environmental issue in Western Samoa. Because of its
relatively undisturbed condition, the Sa'anapu-Sataoa Mangrove Forest will be used as
an example of how a healthy mangrove forest should be.

Current recreation / tourism: There is some potential for eco-tourism along the river
into the mangrove forest.

Management Authority: The Division of Environment and Conservation (DEC) of the

MNRE has responsibility for management.

References Cited: Dahl (1980); Holloway & Floyd (1975); Parks (1992); Parks et al.
(1992); Pearsall & Whistler (1991); Sua (1988); Zann (1991).

Vaipu Swamp Forest

Wetland Type: Inland Wetlands

Latitude: 13.58'S
Longitude: 171.36'W
Country: Samoa
General Location: In the northern uplands of eastern Upolu, 24 km southeast of Apia.
Elevation (m): 240
AreaSize (ha): 183.298
General Overview of the Site: An area of mixed upland species swamp forest in a
water-logged basin in the hills of eastern Upolu; the last significant wetland of this type in
Samoa.

Ramsar Criteria for Inclusion:

Group A Group A Group A Group A Group B Group B Group B Group B Group B
Criteria 1 Criteria 2 Criteria 3 Criteria 4 Criteria 5 Criteria 6 Criteria 7 Criteria 8 Criteria 9

√ √ √

Physical Features of the site: A large patch of swamp forest in a poorly drained basin
on one of the main tributaries of the Salani River. The swamp is fed by Afulilo Falls and
stream, and lies below the site of the former Punataemo'o swamp forest which was
recently submerged by a hydro-electric scheme. The basic alluvium and basic colluvium
soils in the central part of the basin are saturated with fresh water, and there is some
open water in the northeast.

Physical Features of the Catchment Area: No information

Hydrological Values: The swamp forest is a very important water catchment area for
the Salani river system.

General Ecological Features: The forest comprises a mixture of typical swamp forest
species and lowland rain forest species, with Barringtonia samoensis, Calophyllum neo-
ebarlicum, Cananga odorata, C. harveyi, Canthium merrillii, Clidemia hirta, Cyathea spp.,
Dysoxylum samoense, Elaeocarpus tonganus, Fagraea berteroana, Ficus tinctoria,
Hernandia moerenhoutiana, Hibiscus tiliaceus, Macaranga stipulosa, Myristica fatua, M.
hypargyraea, Neonauclea forsteri, Pisonia sp., Planchonella torricellensis, Pometia
pinnata, Rhus taitensis, Scirpodendron ghaeri, Syzygium samarangense and Terminalia
richii (Pearsall & Whistler, 1991). The screwpine Pandanus turritus and various endemic
woody trees such as Aglaia samoense, Clintostigma samoense and Sterculia fanaiho
have also been recorded. The swamp forest lies adjacent to disturbed lowland rain forest
and secondary forest.

Noteworthy Flora: The site contains a rare type of swamp forest (mixed upland species
swamp forest) with a number of endemic tree species.

Noteworthy Fauna: Wildlife recorded at the site includes Pacific Boa (Candoia bibronI),
two species of flying fox (Pteropus sp.), Pacific Black Duck (ulnas uperciliosa), Mao
(Gymnomyza samoensis) and possibly Spotless Crake (Porzana tabuensis). The
endangered Tooth-billed Pigeon (Didunculus trigirostris) is known to occur in the area.

Social and Cultural Values: The area is of some archaeological significance, with old
Samoan settlements at both ends of the wetland. These are believed to have been
occupied by the Paramount Chiefs for generations.

Land Ownership / Tenure: The wetland and surrounding areas are entirely under
customary ownership.

Land Uses: None at the wetland. A hydro-electric power scheme has recently been
developed in the catchment area.

Factors affecting the site's ecological values: The wetland is threatened by

development of plantations and expansion of the road network in the area. Pigeon
hunting causes some disturbance, and there may be a small amount of logging. The
cyclones of 1990 and 1991 caused only limited damage to the forest. Development of
the Afulilo Hydro-electric Power Project in the water catchment area resulted in the
destruction of the neighbouring Punataemo'o Swamp Forest; any further expansion of
this project could have a detrimental effect on Vaipu Swamp Forest.

Conservation Measures Taken: None

Conservation Measures Proposed: Holloway and Floyd (1975) recommended that the
site be protected as a nature reserve, and this was supported by Dahl (1980). The site
has been recognized as one of the highest priorities for conservation in Western Samoa,
and was listed as the third highest priority by Pearsall and Whistler (1991) in their
"Terrestrial Ecosystem Mapping for Western Samoa". The wetland has recently been
proposed as a National Conservation Area.
Existing scientific research with references: The area has never been properly
surveyed and is in urgent need of detailed study.

Current communication / public education programs: No information

Current recreation / tourism: The area has great potential for eco-tourism, although at
present it is seldom visited except by pigeon hunters.

Management Authority: The Division of Environment and Conservation (DEC) of the

MNRE has responsibility for management.

References Cited: Anon (1985); Dahl (1980); Holloway & Floyd (1975); Parks (1992);
Parks et al. (1992); Pearsall & Whistler (1991); Whistler (1992).