SB246

Hawaii SB246 mandates a study on coral reef herbivore populations around Oahu and strategies to restore them.

Hawaii SB246 requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources to conduct a study on the population status of coral reef herbivores around Oahu, focusing on species like uhu and kala. The bill also mandates an analysis of policies and strategies to increase these populations within a decade. This is due to the degradation of coral reefs around Oahu, which are dominated by dead coral and seaweeds, and the need to replenish herbivore populations before coral bleaching becomes an annual event. The study will consult with experts and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.