HI HB2001

Requires the Department of Agriculture's Aquaculture Development Program to conduct a feasibility study to identify potential sites in Hawaii for restorative aquaculture activities, defined as commercial or subsistence aquaculture that provides direct ecological benefits to the environment.

Study must evaluate technical feasibility of cultivating indigenous seaweed, bivalve, or nearshore fish species based on oceanographic conditions, environmental requirements, and marine spatial planning constraints.

Study must assess legal issues related to ownership, carbon policy, carbon rights transfers, and landowner authority to participate in market projects.

Study must explore beneficial relationships with local communities and fishing interests, including community-supported reforestation and traditional fishpond restoration.

Department of Agriculture must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the 2025 regular session; appropriation amount is blank in the bill text.