HI HR69

Requests the Department of Agriculture, Department of Land and Natural Resources, and Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism to investigate the feasibility of using native Hawaiian fishpond construction as a foundation for a new sustainable aquaculture industry in Hawaii.

Directs the three departments to develop recommendations regarding feasibility of developing a sustainable, culture-based aquaculture model in Hawaii.

Calls on the departments to promote and encourage aquaculture ventures that incorporate native Hawaiian fishpond construction to create an economically and environmentally sustainable future for Hawaii.

Requires the departments to report back to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the convening of the 2011 Regular Session.

Recognizes native Hawaiian fishponds as historically productive zones and viable alternatives to address Hawaii's food import dependency while providing cultural, educational, and environmental benefits.