Land-based sources of pollution on Tutuila, American Samoa

80 percent of pollution to the marine environment comes from land-based sources, such as runoff pollution. Runoff pollution includes many small sources, like septic tanks, cars, trucks and boats, plus larger sources, such as farms and forest areas. Non-point source pollution, commonly called runoff pollution, can make river and ocean water unsafe for humans and wildlife. In some areas, runoff pollution is so bad that it causes beaches to be closed after rainstorms. In 2005 an average of 5 beaches were closed weekly on Tutuila. Water quality data will be presented, common land-based sources pollution and methods for improvement in American Samoa. An educational video created for educational outreach visits will also be shown.