HI HR61

Request Department of Land and Natural Resources to convene a working group to identify high priority areas for potential designation as marine managed areas

Working group should include native fishermen, specific community members from affected geographical areas, and marine scientists

Resolution cites benefits of marine managed areas including increased biomass and diversity of marine organisms, protection against natural hazards from healthy coral ecosystems, and sustainable fisheries

Supports Hawaii's commitment to effectively manage 30 percent of the State's nearshore ocean waters by 2030, including community-based marine management

Requires certified copies be transmitted to the Governor and Chairperson of the Board of Land and Natural Resources