NOAA Seeks Molokai Representative

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration News Release

For the first time, NOAA’s Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary is actively seeking Lanai and Molokai representatives for its advisory council. The sanctuary is asking for applicants from all islands to fill nine primary seats and nine alterative seats on the council, which ensures public input into sanctuary management and provides advice to the sanctuary superintendent.
 
The sanctuary is accepting applications for primary and alternate seats representing Commercial Shipping, Whale Watching, Ocean Recreation, Business/Commerce, Citizen-at-Large, Conservation, and Tourism.
 
“The Office of National Marine Sanctuary program is pleased to provide an opportunity to residents of Lanai and Molokai to participate in advising the management of Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary,” said Allen Tom, acting superintendent and Pacific Islands Regional Director. “These two new seats will also enable community members of both islands to help plan the future of their national marine sanctuary.  I am pleased that the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries has responded to the request from the local community for these two new seats.”

Candidates are selected based on their expertise and experience in relation to the seat for which they are applying, community and professional affiliations, and views regarding the protection and management of marine resources. Applicants who are chosen as members should expect to serve two -year terms.

Applications are due December 1, 2010. To receive an application kit or for further information, please contact council coordinator Joe Paulin via e-mail at Joseph.Paulin@noaa.gov, by phone at (808) 397-2651, ext. 257, or visit the sanctuary website at hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov. Completed applications should be submitted to: Joe Paulin, Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, 6600 Kalanianaole Highway, Suite 301, Honolulu, Hawaii 96825.