DLNR has released for public comment its Kealakekua Stewardship Management Plan. The Plan can be found on-line at http://hawaii.gov/dlnr/ksa. Public comments are being accepted through April 30th as DLNR seeks to start implementation of the Plan this summer.
In an effort to protect the Bay's resources and reduce the impact of commercial activities on the surrounding neighborhoods some of the Plan's proposals include imposing fees on commercial activities, requiring private users to register their boat/kayak, and discontinuing all landings along the Kaawaloa shoreline at this time - however landings in the future may be permitted with a special use permit.
While it is clear to those that frequent the Bay and Pier area that commerical activities have risen the plan also limits non-commerical acitivites and uses by locals. For instance, non-commerical kayaks must be registered with DOBOR* for use in the Kealakekua Bay MLCD**. Kayak owners must, agree to conditions of entry and use and affix a numbered decal to the kayak. However, registration is limited to one per person and is not transferable. So if you happen to have more than one kayak you're going to have to pick which one to register and no more heading out with a buddy in your spare.
Any person violating the rules will be guilty of a petty misdemeanor. The punishment, in addition to any other penalties, shall be a fine of not less than: $250 for a first offense; $500 for a second offense; and $1,000 for a third or subsequent offense. Furthermore, the specified fines cannot be suspended or waived.
Some of the good things the Plan provides for besides attempting to protect the natural resources includes installation of ladders at Napo'opo'o Landing for safer ingress/egress.
*DOBOR = Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation
**MLCD = Marine Life Conservation District
Comments can be made via email, fax, or mail at the following:
KealakekuaPlan@yahoo.com
FAX: 808-327-6229
DLNR
74-380B Kealakehe Pkwy.
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
Thursday, February 26, 2009
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