DOH Closes Four Farms for Alleged Violations and Unacceptable Practices

Pago Pago - AMERICAN SAMOA 

The Department of Health has closed down four farms after discovering alleged violations and unacceptable practices. In a press statement, the Environmental Health Services Division noted that the farms that have been shut down until further notice are FL Farming in Lepuapua, Thanh Ho Due Farming in Leone, K & B Farming in Pava’ia’i, and Sitau Farms in Vaitogi. 

The farms have been found in violation of one or more illegal and unacceptable practices, as follows:

1. Burning insecticides (such as mosquito coils and repellents) inside chest freezers used for storing agricultural products grown and harvested on the farms.
2. Evidence of burn marks or discoloration on chest freezers, indicating that insecticides were burned on-site.
3. Improper drainage and overflow, with wastewater from bathrooms (showers, toilets, sinks), kitchen sinks, and/or washing machines being disposed of directly onto the ground rather than into the sewer line or an approved septic system.
4. The use of piggery waste and/ or human waste as fertilizers on farms adjacent to piggery operations.
5. Misuse of pesticides on agricultural products.
6. Accumulation of debris, trash, or solid waste that could contaminate the soil or crops.

This matter was initially reported by the Department of Health last month, following comprehensive inspections of various agricultural farms. 

The Department has asserted that its actions are in strict compliance with the American Samoa Code Annotated (A.S.C.A.) § 13.0206, which specifically delineates the authoritative powers and responsibilities vested in the Public Health Department to protect and enhance community health.

The conditions observed on these agricultural farms are cause for significant concern and present urgent public health risks that may jeopardize the well-being of the local population. 

Specifically, agricultural products intended for public consumption face substantial risks of contamination from hazardous chemicals, such as insecticides and various agricultural chemicals commonly employed in farming. The presence of these substances can result in severe health complications, including the development of chronic illnesses — such as respiratory disorders and neurological conditions — as well as acute poisoning incidents that necessitate immediate medical intervention. 

These alarming circumstances underscore the need for prompt and effective action. 

It is imperative that all agricultural operations, along with food retail establishments, comply with stringent waste disposal protocols designed to mitigate these risks. 

Establishing and consistently enforcing proper disposal practices is critical in preventing environmental contamination and safeguarding public health. Furthermore, all farms and retail outlets engaged in the sale of food and agricultural products to the community must adhere rigorously to food safety regulations as outlined in Title 25 of the A.S.C.A. and the corresponding guidelines specified in the American Samoa Administrative Code.

 Non-compliance with these essential regulations may result in significant penalties, including formal citations, financial fines, and the potential for the indefinite closure of the offending establishment. 

The closing of the four farms highlights the DOH’s commitment to maintaining safe food practices and ensuring the health and safety of the community as a whole. 

According to the DOH, any farm found with one or more of these violations will have their operations halted, and products will be disposed of immediately.