Kosrae - History

The only FSM state without outer islands, Kosrae is the most easterly state in the country. It has the smallest land area of 112 sq. kilometers and consists of 2 islands joined by a causeway. The interior of the island is rugged and of volcanic origin, with Mt. Finkol rising to some 628 meters. The mountain and foothills have fine granular clay soil that covers less steep slopes to a depth of 15 meters, giving Kosrae rich agricultural potential. The encircling coastal lowlands have sandy loam soil or, where swamp forest occurs, black mud.

Heavy rainfall has resulted in numerous perennial streams. Estuarine habitats occur where streams mix with salt water. The freshwater, with its load of salt and sediments, has inhibited coral growth to form harbours at Lelu, Utwa and Otak. Kosrae also has several natural sandy beaches. Only the coastal areas of Kosrae are inhabited, and it has four municipalities: Malem, Tafunsak, Lelu, and Utwa. The administration center and most of the commercial activities are concentrated in Lelu municipality.