National Marine Sanctuary Proposal

NOAA News Release

Molokai residents can weigh in on a proposal by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) to create a national marine sanctuary in Papahanaumokuakea at a public meeting April 18 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Kulana ʻOʻiwi.

Following input from state and federal agencies, local communities and the public, NOAA has released for public comment its draft proposal to designate marine portions of Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument as a national marine sanctuary. The proposal would supplement and complement existing authorities, including the area’s designation as a marine national monument, which will continue to be in effect.

A detailed description of the proposed sanctuary, as well as additional information about opportunities to provide public comment, can be found on the website for the proposed Papahanaumokuakea National Marine Sanctuary. The public can submit comments until May 7, 2024, through the Federal eRulemaking Portal. The docket number is NOAA-NOS-2021-0114 and comments will be accepted in both English and ʻolelo Hawaii.

You may also submit comments through the following methods:

Electronic Submission: submit all electronic comments via the Federal eRulemaking Portal. Go to regulations.gov and search for docket NOAA-NOS-2021-0114. Click the “Comment Now!” icon, complete the required fields, and enter or attach your comments.

Mail: send any hard copy public comments by mail to PMNM-Sanctuary Designation, NOAA/ONMS, 1845 Wasp Blvd., Bldg 176, Honolulu, HI 96818. sanctuaries.noaa.gov/papahanaumokuakea/.

For more information on the proposed sanctuary, see the Federal Register notice.