A revised Humpback Whale Sanctuary management plan that could include monk seals, turtles and other species has been approved by Gov. Ben Cayetano. Marine life may be
added to sanctuaryCayetano reauthorizes a revised
plan for the state whale havenStar-Bulletin staff
The plan reauthorizes the sanctuary and calls for a community-based process to add species for sanctuary protection.
"Five years ago, we took a step forward to protect Hawaii's precious ocean resources," Cayetano said, adding that "it's evident that the structure and processes put in place work."
In endorsing the revised plan for the next five years, he said, "I'm particularly happy that it includes a community-based process to consider extending this structure to other ocean resources precious to our islands. ...
"As an island state, preservation of our marine environment is vital to us, our children and the many visitors to our shores."
The sanctuary plan was developed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration with updated education, research and administration strategies resulting from public input.
No new regulations or boundary changes are proposed.
The Sanctuary Advisory Council, state Department of Land & Natural Resources and Office of Hawaiian Affairs support the plan.
The Humpback Whale Sanctuary is one of 13 national marine sanctuaries. It includes areas around Maui, Lanai and Molokai and parts of Oahu, Kauai and the Big Island.
Humpback whales breed, calve and nurse in Hawaii, their winter migratory home.
The sanctuary is intended to promote comprehensive and coordinated management, research, education and long-term monitoring for the animal and its habitat.
In the past five years, the sanctuary developed the Maui Sanctuary Education and Visitor Center, supported more than 20 scientific research projects concerning Hawaii's marine resources and encouraged native Hawaiian cultural awareness.
Thousands participated in the Sanctuary Ocean Count, Kauai Family Ocean Fair and the annual Ocean User Workshops throughout the state.
More information is available at www.hihwnms.nos.noaa.gov.
State of Hawaii
