Official press release from Hawaii’s DLNR
via Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sept. 7, 2017
DLNR STATEMENT ON COMMERCIAL AQUARIUM FISHING RULING
The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) has long issued annual commercial and recreational aquarium fish permits, pursuant to HRS §188-31 and administrative rules, authorizing the use of fine meshed traps or nets to take aquatic life for aquarium purposes. On Wednesday, the Hawai‘i Supreme Court ruled that aquarium collection using fine meshed traps or nets is subject to the environmental review procedures provided in the Hawai‘i Environmental Policy Act (HEPA). The issue has been remanded to the circuit court for further proceedings.
In light of the ruling, until further guidance is received, DLNR has discontinued issuance of new aquarium fish permits and renewal of existing aquarium fish permits.
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Editor’s note – multiple inquiries have been made with the DLNR seeking additional information and clarifications, which we will share if/when they become available. Read yesterday’s coverage for more on the court ruling.
