HI HCR326

Requests the Board of Land and Natural Resources to place a moratorium on new permits for open water commercial finfish mariculture operations in Hawaii.

Cites concerns that commercial mariculture operations disrespect native Hawaiian fishing traditions, threaten marine environments with escaped farmed fish, and pollute local waters with nitrogen from fish waste.

States the open water finfish mariculture industry has not demonstrated economic viability, justified its existence, or contributed to local food security.

Notes that modern technologies have failed to adequately address environmental, cultural, and economic problems associated with open water finfish mariculture operations.

Indicates the state and commercial fishing industry are focusing on safer alternatives such as land-based, closed-loop recirculating aquaculture systems.