HI SR106

Urges the Department of Land and Natural Resources to identify priority locations statewide where minimizing human interaction after cauliflower coral spawning could enhance coral reef formation.

Requests the department take actions to support healthier coral reefs, including public education to reduce human activity during coral spawning periods.

Notes that cauliflower corals spawn once yearly in April or May, releasing eggs and sperm that form free-floating larvae vulnerable to human disturbance during their first few days.

References successful results from the Kohalu'u Bay Education Center on Hawaii Island since 2020, which educated visitors to minimize interaction during spawning and resulted in increased juvenile coral populations.

Requires certified copies be transmitted to the Governor, Board of Land and Natural Resources Chairperson, and all county mayors.