Press Releases

FAGATOGO, American Samoa - Fagatele Bay's rich marine life and unique biodiversity is showcased in a new mural at Fagatogo Marketplace. Created by local artist Mark Ashley Faulker, the mural is a collaboration between NOAA's Fagatele Bay National Marine Sanctuary and the American Samoa Department of Commerce.

"This mural reminds our community, and shares with our visitors, the wonderful underwater treasure that is home to hundreds of species of corals, fish and marine life - Fagatele Bay," said Gene Brighouse, sanctuary superintendent. "This mural was a way to bring this unique place to people on the island who have never seen or been to Fagatele Bay and to showcase to visitors a very special area to explore."

Located next to the fish market at Fagatogo Marketplace, the mural was designed to help increase awareness of marine conservation issues and encourage the wise use of marine resources. Faulkner is a Solomon Islands native, who has lived in American Samoa for more than 20 years. He is widely known for teaching art to students in the Territory.

Fagatele Bay National Marine Sanctuary comprises a fringing coral reef ecosystem nestled within an eroded volcanic crater on the island of Tutuila, American Samoa. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of animals and plants that thrive in the bay's protected waters.

NOAA understands and predicts changes in the Earth's environment, from the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun, and conserves and manages our coastal and marine resources. Visit us on Facebook.

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