HI HR245

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 has disrespected native Hawaiian fishing traditions, threatened marine environments with escaped farmed fish, and polluted local waters with nitrogen from fish waste.

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

States that modern technologies have failed to resolve the environmental, cultural, and economic problems associated with open water finfish mariculture operations.

Directs transmission of a certified copy of the resolution to the Chairperson of the Board of Land and Natural Resources.