Bill > SCR165

This concurrent resolution requests the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to lift the fishing moratorium in the Lapakahi Marine Life Conservation District, based on several key findings. The Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR) originally imposed the moratorium to restore overfished species, support ecological balance, and honor the region's cultural significance. Recent studies have shown that fish populations have rebounded and coral health has improved during the moratorium. However, the resolution also acknowledges that the fishing ban has negatively impacted local fishers and surrounding communities economically. The resolution proposes reintroducing sustainable fishing practices with proper rules and regulations that will benefit the local economy, reinvigorate fishing activity, and establish guidelines to ensure marine resources remain plentiful. Additionally, lifting the moratorium would provide the local community an opportunity to collaborate with DLNR in managing the conservation district. The resolution formally requests that DLNR adopt rules to lift the fishing moratorium and directs that certified copies of the resolution be transmitted to the Chairperson of the Board of Land and Natural Resources and the Administrator of the Division of Aquatic Resources.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SCR&billnumber=165&year=2025