Blue Prosperity Micronesia and National Geographic Pristine Seas Launch Marine Science Expedition in Federated States of Micronesia

Kosraeans gathered to celebrate the launch of the expedition, meet with the scientists, and learn about the expedition’s research plans.

Lelu, Kosrae — (Oct. 16, 2023) — Blue Prosperity Micronesia and National Geographic Pristine Seas launched an exciting marine science expedition to study the FSM’s ocean in Kosrae this past weekend. The two-month expedition is a government-led initiative, conducted by Blue Prosperity Micronesia (BPM) and National Geographic Pristine Seas, in close collaboration with Kosrae, Pohnpei, Chuuk and Yap states. The expedition began with a launch event on Oct. 14 in Kosrae and will conclude on Nov. 21 in Yap.

Hon. Tulensa W. Palik, Governor of Kosrae, welcomed the expedition to Kosrae. “As islanders, the ocean has always been, and it will always be a part of our lives. We are excited to welcome the expedition team to Kosrae State and the FSM. This expedition is a monumental international collaboration for the nation; now is our opportunity to show the world that FSM is a leader in marine protection and sustainable ocean management.”

The M/V Argo will serve as the expedition vessel, traveling to Kosrae, Pohnpei, Chuuk and finally concluding in Yap. The expedition will collect underwater footage and information about fish and coral populations and key habitats across all four states.

Planning for this expedition commenced in 2019 with the launch of the BPM program, but was delayed several years as a result of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Hon. Lieutenant Governor Arthy G. Nena provided opening remarks at the expedition launch event and reflected on the history. “One of the highlights I remember from a [2019] meeting was this expedition. I am very glad that I am still living to see that it’s happening… On behalf of the people of Kosrae, Governor Palik, Speaker Phillip, and members of the communities here, state municipalities would like to say how thankful we are that we are at this stage.”

Kosraeans gathered at Awane Marine Park in Lelu to celebrate the launch of the expedition, meet with the scientists, and learn about the expedition’s research plans. During the expedition, each State will host events where community members will have the opportunity to hear about what scientists have observed in FSM’s underwater environments.

Additionally, local students and teachers are invited to join virtual Explorer Classroom events on Oct. 19 and Nov. 17 to connect with scientists aboard the M/V Argo and learn about marine science in the FSM.

Members of the community are invited to expedition events on the following dates:

• Pohnpei: Oct. 25, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at Kolonia Gym

• Chuuk: Nov. 2, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at Tranco Dock

• Yap: Nov. 21, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at Yap Living History Museum

All dates are subject to change due to weather or other delays. All times listed are local times.

Bond Segal, Kosrae BPM/PAN Coordinator, will join the expedition’s first leg from Kosrae to Pohnpei. “This effort will not only deepen our understanding of our marine resources, but will also celebrate and spotlight our community's deep connection with the ocean on the global stage. I am immensely proud to be a part of this initiative.”

Dr. Peter Houk, the chief scientist for the expedition, explains how the research will bridge critical knowledge gaps. “This research will build upon the extensive Micronesia coral reef monitoring network which has been studying reef management for over a decade. We are excited to research how traditional knowledge and reef tenure across outer atolls has facilitated sustainable resource use for centuries. We are blessed to have the opportunity to learn from these remote communities and support them in addressing modern challenges like climate change.”

The expedition's discoveries will shape future ocean management and protection strategies through the development of Marine Spatial Plans. The data collected will also contribute to the Micronesia Challenge, reinforcing the region's dedication to preserving the ecosystems on which people and cultures depend upon.

“This is National Geographic Pristine Seas’ first expedition to the Federated States of Micronesia and we are humbled to be part of this collaborative effort to study the marine environment,” said Paul Rose, National Geographic Pristine Seas expedition leader.

ABOUT

Blue Prosperity Micronesia is a program to support the sustainable growth of marine resources in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). This program is government-led, with the goal to optimize ocean uses, protect 30% of FSM’s waters, strengthen fisheries management, and support the development of marine industries.

National Geographic Pristine Seas works with Indigenous and local communities, governments, and other partners to help protect vital places in the ocean using a unique combination of research, community engagement, policy work, and strategic communications and media. Since 2008, our program has conducted 41 expeditions around the world and helped establish 26 marine reserves, spanning more than 6.6 million square kilometers of ocean.