Signs remind boaters, fishers of laws protecting sharks
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The Maui News
State workers have been installing signs at state small harbors and ramps to remind people of a law protecting mano, or sharks, and to highlight their important role in native Hawaiian culture, ocean health and resiliency.
Crews with the Department of Land and Natural Resources' Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation have been installing eight to 12 signs on each island at some of the division's 40 harbors, ramps and facilities.
"While we hope the signs engender respect for sharks and their natural and cultural roles in Hawaii, they also serve as a reminder of the new law that went into effect on January 1st, extending protections to more than 40 species of sharks that frequent state waters," DOBOR Administrator Ed Underwood said in a news release Tuesday.
The signs remind people that it is illegal to intentionally capture, kill or entangle any shark in state waters. Doing so is considered a misdemeanor with up to $10,000 in fines per shark.
The signs were funded through a partnership between DOBOR and For the Fishes, and Moana Ohana, which for years advocated to enhance rules and laws that protect sharks.
In addition to the new signs, most of which have now been installed, the Malama Mano education campaign has distributed more than 8,000 informational cards and flyers around the state, advising fishers of the new law.
To report suspected violations, contact DLNR's Division of Conservation and Resource Enforcement at (808) 643-DLNR (3567) or via the DLNRTip App.