Tavita Togia a terrestrial ecologist at the American Samoa National Park Service spends his days fighting invasive Tamaligi trees to give a real chance for native trees to thrive. Invasive species are the biggest threat to biodiversity in small island countries. American Samoa has suffered from the introductions of many alien species; from the giant African snail, the cane-toads, tropical fire ants, rubber trees, African tulip-trees, Singapore daisy and the Tamaligi (Albizzia) causing massive decline in native species and environment degradation.

Invasive Tamaligi trees grow rapidly and tower over many of the slow growing native species. Tavita builds and inspires a team of young American Samoans to climb the steep hills of Tutuila island to remove Tamaligi. Ten years since they started the work, native trees are coming up where once the Tamaligi stood, and the local community is getting behind removal of the invasive trees to save their forests.

What makes it Bright?

• Having a passionate leader that believes in the harm caused by invasive species and takes action
• Working with local and overseas partners to assist with provision of resources, building technical capacity and provide other necessary support to allow the team to battle invasive species
• Respecting the culture, traditions and values of the Samoan traditions to endear, inspire and strengthen stewardship of local communities to act

Location: American Samoa
Focal Point: Tavita Togia, National Park of American Samoa, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.