Land and sea are one connected system. This is true for the entire planet; on small islands the connection is near and immediate.

Local farms are essential for food security everywhere; on islands, import infrastructure is fragile. Even without disruption, 85% of food is imported to Hawai’i and American Samoa; this has a huge carbon footprint!

Local farms have a huge positive effect on the stability of the local economy and food security. When managed with conservation practices, they can work in harmony with the environment as well.

With conservation-minded farming practices, clean water quality, healthy soils, and conservation of natural resources are attainable. Clean water protects drinking water for human communities and preserves the coral reefs, which in turn support other life in the ocean, fishing, and tourism. Healthy soils increase crop yields and improve island food security. The dual goals of a healthy ecosystem and healthy community economy can and must be achieved. Working in tandem, these practices lead to the conservation of the islands’ precious and finite natural resources.

These paired images show an embayment in American Samoa and the damage to a near-shore reef. Reefs can recover if sustainable practices are implemented in time. Healthy reefs are critical for healthy oceans and healthy communities!