Don’t weaken Endangered Species Act

The lands and waters of Hawaii are a refuge for a dizzying array of plants and wildlife, from aquatic creatures dwelling in our vast coral reefs to millions of seabirds gliding across our shores. Hawaii also happens to be the endangered species capital of the world, home to endangered Hawaiian monk seals, threatened Hawaiian green sea turtles, and other unique imperiled species that cannot be found anywhere else on Earth.

Thanks to strong federal safeguards, we have plans in place to help these struggling species recover and survive, ensuring their existence for future generations. With the mounting pressures of industrial operations, climate change, and military activities, many of these rare animals and plants could easily slip through the cracks and vanish into oblivion if it weren’t for protections established under the Endangered Species Act.

Yet members of Congress are now taking aim at the very system that has ensured their continued survival, floating proposals to weaken or dismantle the Endangered Species Act despite its success. Conservation efforts required under this important law have resulted in the continued survival of 99 percent of species designated for protection since it was enacted in 1973.

Several weeks ago, the Western Governors Association issued policy recommendations calling for amendments to the law that would increase state involvement in wildlife management. This is a step in the wrong direction, because it takes us away from the core principle of preventing extinction.

In my former capacity as chairman of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, it was my responsibility to comply with and promote habitat conservation plans crafted to promote species recovery. I balanced conservation goals with the interests of private landowners, and advocated enough federal funding to hold us accountable to our species recovery goals.

As it’s written, the Endangered Species Act allows for flexibility and promotes a structure that integrates the interests of federal, state, tribal and local officials as they partner and work toward a common goal of ensuring species survival.

As a Native Hawaiian, I can speak volumes about the cultural value of the rare wildlife that stands to be lost if this agenda moves forward. Aside from the spiritual and cultural significance these imperiled creatures and habitats represent for the people of Hawaii, however, there are other good reasons why we must keep the Endangered Species Act intact.

Tourism is the number one economic driver in Hawaii’s economy — millions visit our islands to encounter our natural treasures. Tourism and recreation supports jobs; while species recovery efforts boost employment. The healthy ecosystems that result from this work also contribute to economic success. As a small-boat fisherman, I have witnessed firsthand how strong environmental protections can help fish stocks rebound. This creates more fishing opportunities across the state.

Nor do economic considerations make up the full picture. Our health is inextricably linked to our island environment. For instance, protecting habitat improves our watershed, which in turn supports groundwater recharge. This is critical: Modeling predicts a 30 percent reduction in rainfall on the leeward side of the islands due to climate change. Wise protection of our habitat today can serve as a buffer against the challenges we’ll face.

Decision-makers in D.C. must understand that the Endangered Species Act is our most effective tool for preventing extinction. An online petition has been started to tell Congress to keep this conservation measure strong, and that it should never be weakened or undermined.

Without it, I believe many more species would have vanished in the 30 years I’ve been working to defend our island and ocean ecosystems.

William Aila, of Waianae, is the former director of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources.