Fishpond Protection Bill Passes

Community Contributed

By Chris Crammer

Last week, a state law passed that prohibits the sale of government owned Hawaiian fishponds. The message was loud and clear. Restore and protect our ancient fishponds, don’t auction them to the highest bidder.

Whether it was the hundreds of signatures collected on the petition or lobbying in the community and legislature, everyone contributed. Our legislators responded by passing the bill unanimously. Initially, Gov. Lingle placed it on her veto list. However, she reversed her decision at the end and allowed it to pass without signature.

What we gained was more than protection for ancient fishponds. Community education and restoration efforts now have a fighting chance without the threat of being sold as beachfront estates. Thanks to all of you, our government owned Hawaiian fishponds now have the permanent protection they deserve.