ABOUT SAMOA
Environment & Nature
GEOLOGY
Lush mountain ranges
The islands of Samoa are all volcanic in origin. They are dominated by rugged mountain ranges with 4-5km of gently sloping fertile land near the coast to which a limestone fringing reef is attached.
The islands were formed as a result of lava eruptions that produced high volcanic cones. These were then eroded and overlaid with younger lava and fertile soils.
Although all the volcanoes in Samoa are currently inactive, Samoa does experience frequent mild earth tremors. Severe earthquakes, however, are not common.
MARINE RESERVES
 Pristine Samoan coastline
The islands of Samoa are fringed with coral reefs and lagoons, providing spectactular swimming and snorkeling locations. Dolphins and whales migrate through the waters surrounding Samoa, and turtles regularly visit the islands. Almost 1000 species of fish and over 200 varieties of coral call the reefs surrounding Samoa home.
In the past, a lack of planning legislation in Samoa has resulted in developments taking place without proper consideration for the environment.
An example of this is the reclamation of mangrove areas resulting in the destruction of this important ecosystem.
With growing concern over the impacts of development on the environment, procedures are now being put into place to regulate development to protect and preserve these beautiful natural ecosystems. The vast majority of Samoa's coastline remain intact, untouched and un-developed.
 For more information concerning planning and management of Samoa's environment, please see the Planning and Urban Management Agency (PUMA) website: www.mnre.gov.ws/puma/index.htm
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Updated: 16 June 2008
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