Kahoolawe Waters Open This Weekend

By Sonia Isotov

The Kaho`olawe Island Reserve Commission (KIRC) has announced the trolling schedule for permitted vessels in the month of February, 2011.

Reserve waters within two nautical miles of Kaho`olawe island are open to commercial and recreational fishing on these two weekends in February:

• Saturday and Sunday, February 5 and 6, 2011
• Saturday and Sunday, February 26 and 27 2011

It should be noted that Hawai`i Administrative Rules (HAR 13-261) require that all vessels must register annually with the KIRC before entering the Reserve to troll during designated trolling dates. Registered vessels are also required to file a catch report with the KIRC any time they fish in the Reserve, whether fish are caught or not. A $25.00 permitting fee will be applied to the required registration process.

Access to the Kaho`olawe Island Reserve waters is severely restricted due to the continued presence of unexploded ordnance, as well as for the protection of marine resources within the Reserve. However, during two scheduled weekends each month, limited trolling is allowed in Reserve waters deeper than 30 fathoms for vessels permitted by the KIRC.

 “Reserve waters” are defined as within two nautical miles of Kaho`olawe island. All other fishing, ocean recreation, commercial and/or any other activities are strictly prohibited.

Failure to register with the KIRC may result in criminal and civil penalties. Criminal penalties may result in a fine of $1,000 or imprisonment up to 30 days; administrative penalties may result in a fine of up to $10,000 for a first violation; $15,000 for a second violation within five years; and, as much as $25,000 for a third or subsequent violation within five years of the last violation

The Kaho`olawe Island Reserve Commission (KIRC) was established by the Hawai`i State Legislature in 1993 to manage the Kaho`olawe Island Reserve while it is held in trust for a future Native Hawaiian sovereign entity. The KIRC establishes policies and usage of the island and its surrounding waters through comprehensive restoration and monitoring programs. The KIRC Cultural Program integrates a Native Hawaiian cultural perspective into all programs and activities. The organization is managed by a seven-member Commission and a committed staff.

To register with the KIRC, or for more information, contact Dean Tokishi at 808-243-5889, [email protected], or visit http://kahoolawe.hawaii.gov to download a registration packet. Registration packets are also available at the Division of Boating and Recreation (DOBOR) at 210 Imi Kala Street, Suite 205, Wailuku and at Maui Sporting Goods at 92 North Market Street, Wailuku.