Caption: Members of the ASCC SEEDS Club are pictured here during their field excursion last month on the island of Upolu. (Courtesy Photo)

Students learned that Upolu, much like Tutuila, was formed by the same Hotspot, a stationary location on the Earth's surface that has experienced active volcanism for sustained periods of time. However, the two islands have different ecologies. Upolu has 403 km of coastline, with narrow coastal plains and volcanic, rocky, rugged mountains in its interior, as apposed to Tutuila’s 116 km with rugged peaks and limited coastal plains. Tutuila has one of the best natural deepwater harbors in the South Pacific, sheltered by its shape from rough seas and protected by peripheral mountains from high winds. While Upolu has its share of bays, none quite match the safe haven provided by the harbor in Tutuila.

The students conducted an algae and giant clam study at the Palolo Deep Marine Reserve. Algae are mostly-photosynthetic organisms that sometimes resemble plants, but actually are not, since they have no true roots, stems or leaves. Algae grow in both freshwater and saltwater. Saltwater algae are sometimes referred to as "seaweed." Like plants, algae require light and nutrients to grow.  Algae also consume nutrients that, if allowed to accumulate, are harmful to fish and other marine organisms. Giant clams have symbiotic algae that live inside their flesh and provide food and color for the clam.

The presence of algae indicates a healthy environment for fish. ASCC student and first time SEEDS excursion participant Mathew Tuinei commented, “It was a great experience. I saw lots of fish, algae and coral. It would have been better if the tide was higher but you can't control the tide.” Richie Leofili, a Liberal Arts major exclaimed, “I couldn’t believe how big and colorful the giant clams were! Unfortunately, you don't see anything like this in American Samoa.”

The SEEDS Club enjoyed an educational tour of the Vailima Estate, currently the home of the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum.  Student Taitinea Passi, noted, “There is still much love and respect for Stevenson in Samoa. Not only was he a famous author, but he lobbied relentlessly for the rights of native Samoans.” After a tour along the "Road of the Loving Hearts" trail leading to Robert Luis Stevenson’s grave on top of Mount Vaea, the students completed a terrestrial assessment of the area.  Describing the experience, student Peter Gebauer recalled, “The path was steep and long, but to be one with nature for a brief period and the view from the top, was well worth it.”  Various native plants were pointed out, and their cultural significances were discussed. Guides also identified several invasive plants for the students, and discussed the problems these species cause and possible methods of managing them.

Upon arriving at Lalomanu, the group participated in environmental games to test the knowledge they had picked up so far. Lots of reef exploration occurred, and many participants immediately acknowledged a huge difference between the reefs in American Samoa and those in the Independent State.  “The corals were beautiful. One was a big as a kitchen table. The reefs in American Samoa could be like this again if enough people protected them,” reflected student Milton Manase.

The group finished the week with a relaxing swim at the Togitogia waterfall and some volleyball with other guests from overseas staying at Lalomanu.  The Club enjoyed this opportunity for dialogue and exchange between many people from all over the world, as everyone discussed their different cultures, attitudes and views on life.  “Traveling is a great way to develop friendships from people of various backgrounds,” stated SEEDS member Jennifer Maugioa.  “We hope to see some of our new friends from Lalomanu in American Samoa within the next few weeks”.
As student Palafu Sou summed things up, “This trip has taught us more than we could ever have imagined.  We learned how to respect each other and our environment, and to socialize with our peers and others outside our comfort zones while working together to promote positive environmental attitudes. I hope the younger generation will gain an interest in learning about our island home.  We need to take care of our island so that we’ll have a healthier environment in the future.”

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