United States Minor Outlying Islands

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The United States Minor Outlying Islands (USMOI) is a group of nine insular areas in the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. These islands are unincorporated territories of the United States, and they serve various purposes, including wildlife conservation, research, and military activities. They are scattered across the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument and the Caribbean. The USMOI includes Baker Island, Howland Island, Jarvis Island, Johnston Atoll, Kingman Reef, Midway Atoll, Palmyra Atoll, and Wake Island. These territories are mostly uninhabited, with the exception of Midway Atoll, which has a small population associated with its wildlife refuge. The official currency used in the USMOI is the United States Dollar (USD), reflecting the islands' status as U.S. territories. The islands are not organized under a single government but are managed by different federal agencies, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and the U.S. military. The landscape and ecology of the USMOI vary among the different islands, ranging from coral atolls to volcanic islands. These remote territories are crucial for their ecological significance, providing habitats for various species of birds, marine life, and other flora and fauna. Due to their limited human population and specific conservation goals, the USMOI are subject to strict regulations to protect their unique ecosystems. Access to these islands is often restricted, and activities are closely monitored to ensure environmental preservation. In summary, the United States Minor Outlying Islands, although largely uninhabited, play a vital role in conservation efforts and scientific research. Their diverse ecosystems and protected status contribute to the broader environmental initiatives of the United States in these remote parts of the world.