The National Marine Fisheries Service issued a final rule protecting almost 7,000 square miles of critical habitat for Hawaiian monk seals, among the world’s most endangered marine mammals. ADVERTISING The National Marine Fisheries Service issued a final rule protecting almost
The National Marine Fisheries Service issued a final rule protecting almost 7,000 square miles of critical habitat for Hawaiian monk seals, among the world’s most endangered marine mammals.
The ruling requires greater scrutiny of federally funded or permitted projects along coastal areas on the main Hawaiian Islands to protect the native monk seal and does not interfere with fishing, gathering, swimming or other beach activities. The designation affects only federal, not state or local, actions.
A coalition of Hawaii and national organizations applauds the critical habitat designation that will help ensure clean and safe coasts for monk seals and everyone who uses the ocean.
The monk seal population is down to about 1,100 and falling at 3 percent per year, and critical habitat provides a safety net for the seals. Critical habitat for the monk seal around the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands was previously designated in 1986, and seals increasingly are recolonizing the main Hawaiian Islands.
“Protecting coastal and marine habitat for the Hawaiian monk seal is also good for Hawaii’s people, culture and economy,” said Marjorie Ziegler, executive director of Conservation Council for Hawaii.
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