Marine Resource Education Program held for the first time in Pacific region

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Fishermen, community leaders, scientists, and fisheries managers from the Pacific Island region — including American Samoa, Guam, CNMI, Saipan and the Hawaiian Islands gathered in Honolulu last week for an interactive presentation hosted by the Marine Resource Education Program (MREP).

MREP, a nationally recognized program, focuses on providing fishermen and stakeholders with firsthand insight into how fisheries science and management decisions are made. The goal is to equip participants with a strong understanding of the processes that shape the sustainability of the marine resources their communities rely on. 

American Samoa was represented at the workshop with a diverse delegation offering a range of perspectives on local fisheries. Nathan Ilaoa, a WESPAC council member and business owner along with Ufagafa Ray Tulefano, former Director of the Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources and longtime advocate for sustainable fisheries were invited by MREP as moderators.

Lua’itaua Gene Pan, faipule for the Sua district presented on how essential the fisheries are to the American Samoa community economy and culture. Seasoned Manu‘a fishermen Fa’aliga Matagi and Ta’alo Lauofo; Vera Peck, an educator and recreational angler; and Edgar Feliciano, one of American Samoa’s few remaining longline vessel owners, joined the MREP workshop as participants.

The program was hosted by MREP Senior Program Manager, Lauren O’Brien, who visited American Samoa a year ago to connect with the local fisheries community. The workshop offered a deep dive into the world of fisheries science and management, giving participants a chance to bridge the gap between ocean knowledge and community stewardship.

Throughout the multi-day event, attendees explored the complete journey of fishery management — from ocean conditions to market sales — and the science behind sustainable harvesting.

One of the highlights of the week was an early morning trip to the Honolulu Fish Auction, the only auction of its kind in the United States. Participants witnessed the hustle and flow of freshly caught fish making their way from longline vessels to the auction floor, where buyers bid on species like ahi (yellowfin tuna) and opah. The experience provided a firsthand look at the vital link between local fishermen and the seafood industry, highlighting the importance of responsible harvesting and market demand.

The workshop also included a visit to the NOAA Inouye Regional Center, where scientists offered presentations on oceanography and ocean slicks — natural phenomena that often dictate where fish gather and feed. Beyond lectures, participants were invited into NOAA’s labs for hands-on learning, where they examined otoliths (ear stones) to determine the age of fish and studied gonads to assess reproductive health, both key techniques in monitoring fish populations and ensuring future sustainability.

Throughout the week, attendees also had the opportunity to engage directly with scientists, fisheries managers, the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council (WESPAC), and each other. These conversations fostered an open exchange of knowledge, bridging the gap between on-the-water experience and the often-complex world of fishery regulations.

For many, the MREP workshop was more than just an educational event — it was an opportunity to build new connections, share experiences, and strengthen the bonds between island communities facing many of the same ocean challenges. Whether learning how ocean conditions shape fisheries, handling fish otoliths in the lab, or exchanging stories over breakfast, participants walked away with new knowledge, fresh ideas, and a deeper appreciation for the role each community plays in keeping the Pacific’s fisheries healthy for generations to come.

The MREP Pacific Islands Region Steering Committee is meeting in Honolulu on May 22nd and 23rd for next-step planning items for the region's next workshop. You can learn more by visiting their website at https://mrep.gmri.org/.