40 years of marine sanctuaries worth celebrating

So much of what makes us "lucky to live Hawaii" centers on the isolation of our island home in the vast Pacific Ocean.

Perhaps it is this vastness that allows us to take it for granted. But if we wish to restore our fisheries, stave off destruction of our reefs, ensure safe shipping routes and surf in clean, clear ocean waters, then we must do better. Marine sanctuaries provide one means to do so.

There is little debate over the value and need for our beloved national parks, aptly described by American historian Wallace Stegner as "the best idea we ever had." Yet, it took 100 years from the designation of Yellowstone National Park to apply the same idea to our special ocean places.

Thankfully, in 1972 Congress passed the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act, later named the National Marine Sanctuaries Act, and established the National Marine Sanctuaries System. On Oct. 23, communities across the country will celebrate its 40th anniversary.

What are they celebrating? Coordinated stewardship and management of more than 150,000 square miles of ocean and coastal habitats estimated to generate $4 billion annually in local economies, and supporting approximately 50,000 jobs.

Still, some argue against sanctuaries for fear of losing fishing access. However, sanctuary designation does not equate to no fishing. Each year in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary alone, 600 commercial fishing vessels contribute $33.2 million in total commercial landings. This translates to $20.9 million in income and 441 jobs in the local economy.

In Hawaii, we have two sanctuaries to celebrate: the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, designated in 1992; and the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, designated in 2006.

When international hunting of humpback whales was banned in 1966, fewer than 1,400 of these majestic animals were thought to remain. A recent census revealed that the northern Pacific Humpback population has rebounded to more than 20,000 whales.

Whether this means anything to you or not, it matters to our economy. During the seasonal winter migration of humpbacks to our waters, the whale-watching industry contributes up to $11 million in annual revenues with a total impact of up to $74 million per year.

Consider also that more than 80 percent of Hawaii’s visitors participate in ocean recreation activities. A Hawaii Coral Reef Initiative study determined that Hawaii’s nearshore reefs alone generate $800 million in gross revenues.

But this is about far more than protecting tourism and jobs. It’s about safeguarding our natural and cultural heritage, a way of life for those who call Hawaii home. It is the ocean that most defines our island way of life.

How can we make a difference beyond our shores?

We can advocate for more of these special places. It has been 12 years since the last designation of a new national marine sanctuary in the U.S., whereas from 1988 to 1999, seven new sanctuaries were formed.

But the process must be transparent; it is critical to consider new sites through a public, participatory process. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration must reactivate its site evaluation list and revise the process to formally consider sites for sanctuary designation.

Let’s all work to ensure that these marine jewels continue to protect our special ocean places and way of life, here in Hawaii and beyond.