(a) The office has the following powers and duties:
(1) manage, protect, preserve and perpetuate the marine and wildlife resources in the Territory;
(2) prepare and develop a comprehensive plan or plans for the management, protection and preservation of marine and wildlife resources in the Territory;
(3) collect, analyze, and disseminate data and information relating to the marine and wildlife resources in the Territory;
(4) keep records necessary to monitor and regulate the commercial and recreational fisheries;
(5) encourage and conduct studies, investigations and research relative to commercial and recreational fisheries and wildlife and natural resources;
(6) in coordination with the local government, conduct education and training programs relating to the management and preservation of marine and wildlife resources in the Territory;
(7) adopt and amend rules or regulations implementing and consistent with this chapter to protect, preserve and perpetuate marine and wildlife resources in the Territory;
(8) issue such orders as may be necessary to effectuate the purposes of this chapter and enforce the same by all appropriate administrative and judicial proceedings;
(9) hold hearings relating to any aspect or matter in the administration of this chapter, and in connection therewith, compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of evidence; and
(10) accept, receive and administer grants or other funds or gifts from public and private agencies, including the federal government, for the purpose of carrying out any of the functions of this chapter.
Citation: Am. Samoa Code § 24.0304(a)