Marine Conservation Districts
Hawaii is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. To protect the state’s nearshore marine resources, Hawaii has established Marine Life Conservation Districts (MLCDs) throughout the islands. On the Big Island of Hawaii, there are four MLCDs, including Kealakekua Bay, Puako, Waialea Bay, and Laupahoehoe Point.
What are Marine Life Conservation Districts?
Marine Life Conservation Districts are areas established to protect and conserve the state’s nearshore marine resources. These areas have specific regulations and restrictions on fishing and removing marine life to protect the ecosystem. MLCDs are established based on the unique characteristics and needs of the area and may include coral reefs, rocky shores, and sandy beaches.
Why are Marine Life Conservation Districts important?
Marine Life Conservation Districts are important because they help protect the ocean’s ecosystem and the marine life that depend on it. These areas are designated to limit human impact and allow the ecosystem to thrive. By establishing MLCDs, Hawaii can preserve its marine resources for future generations to enjoy.
Marine Life Conservation Districts on the Big Island of Hawaii
On the Big Island of Hawaii, there are four Marine Life Conservation Districts:
Kealakekua Bay MLCD: Kealakekua Bay is a popular snorkeling and diving destination, known for its clear waters and diverse marine life. The MLCD was established in 1969 and covers approximately 315 acres of ocean waters. The regulations for the Kealakekua Bay MLCD include a ban on the removal of marine life, including fish, coral, and other marine organisms.
Puako MLCD: The Puako MLCD was established in 1999 and covers approximately 286 acres of ocean waters. The area is known for its diverse coral reefs and marine life, including sea turtles and tropical fish. The regulations for the Puako MLCD include a ban on the removal of any marine life and a restriction on fishing methods.
Waialea Bay MLCD: The Waialea Bay MLCD was established in 1997 and covers approximately 60 acres of ocean waters. The area is known for its beautiful coral reefs and is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving. The regulations for the Waialea Bay MLCD include a ban on the removal of any marine life and a restriction on fishing methods.
Laupahoehoe Point MLCD: The Laupahoehoe Point MLCD was established in 1983 and covers approximately 1,100 acres of ocean waters. The area is known for its rocky shoreline and diverse marine life, including octopuses, eels, and reef fish. The regulations for the Laupahoehoe Point MLCD include a ban on the removal of any marine life and a restriction on fishing methods.
Visiting Marine Life Conservation Districts
Visitors to Hawaii can enjoy the beauty and diversity of the marine life in MLCDs by following the regulations and restrictions established to protect the ecosystem. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities in MLCDs, but visitors should be mindful of the regulations and avoid damaging the coral reefs or removing any marine life.
Marine Life Conservation Districts are essential to preserving Hawaii’s nearshore marine resources and protecting the diverse marine life that depend on them. Visitors to the Big Island of Hawaii can enjoy the beauty and diversity of these areas by following the regulations and respecting the ecosystem. Let’s work together to preserve and protect Hawaii’s marine resources for future generations to enjoy.
What animals do these mLCD's protect?
The Marine Life Conservation Districts (MLCDs) in Hawaii protect a wide variety of marine animals, including many that are endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. The regulations within the MLCDs are designed to protect the marine ecosystem as a whole, which includes various species of fish, invertebrates, and other marine life.
Here are some of the marine animals that are commonly protected within the MLCDs on the Big Island of Hawaii:
Coral Reefs: Coral reefs are some of the most diverse and productive ecosystems in the ocean. The MLCDs in Hawaii protect coral reefs from damage or removal, ensuring that these important ecosystems remain intact and continue to support a variety of marine life.
Fish: Hawaii is home to hundreds of species of fish, including some that are found nowhere else in the world. The MLCDs protect many species of fish, including parrotfish, wrasses, and triggerfish, among others.
Sea Turtles: Hawaii is home to five species of sea turtles, and all of them are protected under the Endangered Species Act. The MLCDs provide important habitat for sea turtles and protect them from accidental capture or harm.
Marine Mammals: Hawaii is also home to many species of marine mammals, including humpback whales, spinner dolphins, and Hawaiian monk seals. The MLCDs help protect these animals from harassment, disturbance, and accidental entanglement in fishing gear.
Invertebrates: The MLCDs also protect a variety of invertebrates, including sea stars, octopuses, and crabs, among others. These animals play important roles in the marine ecosystem and are essential for maintaining the overall health of the ecosystem.
By protecting these and other marine animals, the MLCDs help ensure that Hawaii’s marine ecosystem remains healthy and thriving for generations to come.
regulations
The Marine Life Conservation Districts (MLCDs) in Hawaii are regulated by the State of Hawaii’s Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), specifically by its Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR). The DLNR is responsible for managing and enforcing regulations related to the state’s natural resources, including the marine environment.
The DLNR works with community groups, stakeholders, and conservation organizations to ensure the effective management and protection of Hawaii’s marine resources. The Division of Aquatic Resources is responsible for implementing and enforcing regulations related to fishing, marine life conservation, and coral reef protection, including the regulations that govern MLCDs.
The DLNR’s enforcement officers regularly patrol the MLCDs to ensure that visitors are following the regulations and that the marine life and ecosystems within these areas are being protected. Anyone found violating the regulations within MLCDs can face significant fines, legal action, or loss of fishing licenses, so it is essential to follow the regulations carefully.
About the Author
James T. Morrison, R(S)
James T. Morrison is a Realtor with Knutson & Associates, and part of the Papakea Collection Sales Team. You can email him directly at JTM@Jamesmorrisonhawaii.com or call or text him directly at (808) 339-8249
Licesnse #79190 Realtor
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February 21, 2025
