Laws & Policies

Superintendent's Compendium

Each national park has specific local regulations called the Superintendent's Compendium. These regulations are established under the superintendent's discretionary authority under Title 54 of the Code of Federal Regulations. The Superintendent's Compendium helps provide for the enjoyment, use, and protection of the National Park of American Samoa. It is a compilation of park-specific regulations to maintain public health and safety, protect environmental or scenic values, protect natural and cultural resources, and aid in scientific research.

Laws that Established the National Park of American Samoa
Public Law 100-571 -- October 31, 1988 (established the park), and Public Law 107-336 -- December 16, 2002 (expanded the park). Digital text is not available. Print format documents may be available at a federal depository library, or contact us for assistance.

National Park Service Management Policies
The Guide to Managing the National Park System

 

The Lease to Obtain Lands for the Park
Early attempts to establish a national park in American Samoa failed when there seemed no way for the government to acquire traditionally owned village lands for a public park. Decades later the High Court of American Samoa and the U.S. Congress developed a compromise allowing lease of the necessary lands for this park. The lease agreement covers many of the visitor and park management practices that can occur within the park. Digital text is not available at this time, but will be available soon.