October 25, 2026
Our Oceans Are Not for Sale. Stop Deep-Sea Mining.
The Trump administration is preparing to auction off more than 31 million acres of ocean floor near American Samoa to deep-sea mining companies — putting fragile marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of Pacific Island communities at risk.
On November 19, the Department of the Interior plans to hold the first-ever deep-sea mining lease sale in U.S. waters. The sale could open an area larger than Pennsylvania to an industry that scientists warn could cause lasting damage to ocean habitats, threaten marine wildlife, and disrupt ecosystems we are only beginning to understand.
The people of American Samoa don't want this to happen. Their governor, lawmakers, and community leaders have opposed the plan, warning that mining could endanger fishing, cultural traditions, and an ocean that has sustained their communities for generations. Now Samoan community groups are fighting the lease sale in federal court.
Deep-sea mining would involve industrial equipment disturbing the ocean floor, potentially destroying habitats that have taken thousands or even millions of years to develop. Scientists warn that sediment plumes and other disturbances could spread beyond mining sites, putting marine life and fisheries at risk.
Yet the Trump administration is rushing forward with a plan to hand mining companies access to vast stretches of public waters despite serious environmental concerns and opposition from the communities most directly affected.
American Samoa has already taken steps to prohibit seabed mining in its own territorial waters. Washington should respect that decision — not undermine it by auctioning off surrounding federal waters.
The Department of the Interior still has the power to stop this sale before leases are awarded. Public pressure can help force the administration to reconsider before opening the door to a dangerous new industry.
Thanks for everything you do.
Josh
