Blue Prosperity Micronesia and National Geographic Pristine Seas Successfully Conclude Nationwide Marine Science Expedition

The nationwide expedition was a landmark effort for marine science research, community outreach, and education.

Yap, FSM - (November 22, 2023) - Blue Prosperity Micronesia and National Geographic Pristine Seas successfully completed a nationwide science expedition to study the FSM’s ocean and elevate Micronesian ocean science and stewardship. The expedition set out to survey the nation’s outer islands to fill in critical knowledge gaps on nearshore marine resources.

FSM Secretary of Resources & Development Elina Akinaga commended the expedition, stating, “I am proud of the extensive and collaborative efforts of the expedition team. This expedition stands as a landmark effort, promising a more sustainable and resilient ocean for our nation. The newly collected data will play a pivotal role in empowering policymakers and communities to make well-informed decisions regarding marine resource management."

The expedition set out to examine the impacts of climate change on FSM’s marine resources and to fill critical knowledge gaps on nearshore resources in remote outer atolls and islands. These initiatives build upon the foundation laid by the Micronesia coral reef monitoring network, which has been dedicated to studying reef management for over a decade.

One of the expedition's notable discoveries involved the finding of heat-resistant corals, offering valuable insights for resource managers and communities. Dr. Peter Houk, the expedition’s Chief Scientist, expressed optimism about these findings, stating, “We found many reasons for optimism regarding how diverse reef systems can handle heat stress. However, we also observed low abundances of sea cucumbers, sharks, and larger fishes in some unexpected instances. We hope that the data collected during this expedition will facilitate information sharing across the outer atolls and help these communities better understand the status of their marine resources so they can manage into the future.”

Twelve scientists from the FSM joined the international expedition team to complete 531 dives at 62 research sites across 11 outer atolls. The expedition planning team engaged in extensive consultations with state governments, mayors, and traditional leaders to secure permissions for research sites, ensuring alignment with local needs and respect for community practices.

The expedition featured extensive community outreach and public education initiatives. Public events were held in each state for communities to engage with the local and international scientists. More than 500 government leaders, technical partners, students and community members toured the M/V Argo, gaining insights into the state-of-the-art technologies used during the expedition.

A public event celebrating a successful conclusion was held at Yap Living History Museum. Hon. Governor Charles Chieng addressed the gathering, stating, “Yapese connection to the ocean is much deeper than the deepest trench in this world’s oceans—namely the Yap/Mariana Trench. Our ocean is much like the heartbeat of our livelihood. For generations, our ocean has provided us with sustenance, economic opportunities, and a profound sense of belonging. Therefore, BPM in conjunction with the National Geographic Pristine Seas expedition in our area is much welcomed in that highlighting current conditions of our livelihood is relevant in more ways than one, and especially for attractions and appropriate management for our present and future generation.”

Students in each state had an opportunity to learn from the researchers through Explorer Classroom sessions, both at schools and onboard the M/V Argo, and explore potential careers in marine science.

Dr. Nicole Yamase, BPM Science Advisor, led youth outreach efforts for the expedition. “This expedition represents not only a scientific milestone but also a significant achievement for communities and students alike. Witnessing the enthusiasm and engagement of the next generation of ocean stewards from each state was truly inspiring, underscoring the expedition's broader impact on fostering a connection with marine science."

Paul Rose, National Geographic Pristine Seas Expedition Leader stated, “This was the longest and most complex of our Pacific expeditions this year, and only made possible by having such a high performing team which combined Pristine Seas with the wonderful Micronesian marine scientists. It was truly world-class work!

"We are all honored to have been invited by the FSM to conduct our science and media activities, and thank the local community for your hospitality and generosity."

The results of the expedition will provide an understanding of the health of FSM’s ocean and will inform future ocean management through the development of Marine Spatial Plans. The data collected, as well as a science report summarizing key expedition findings, will be shared with the state and national governments.. 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.

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.