The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) is accepting nominations by December 31, 2013 for the 2014 National Register of Big Trees. Across the United States, the largest trees of their species joined the ranks of the more than 780 national champion trees listed in American Forests’ National Register of Big Trees. More than 40 new champions were crowned across 50 states and the District of Columbia, including 6 new champions in Hawaii.

MAKENA -- The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) is closing the nearshore waters of Makena State Park today, as of 12 noon, due to a report of a large shark exhibiting aggressive behavior which chased two spear fishermen out of the water. The area closed is from Ahihi Bay to Makena Landing, a mile in either direction from the location of the report.

HONOLULU -- A Waipahu fisherman was charged and sentenced at Waianae District Court on Nov. 25, 2013, for violating Hawaii Administrative Rule (H.A.R.) 13-95-22(a) that prohibits the take or possession of any ulua less than 10 inches in length. Lionel Tunac, 52, pled guilty to the charge and was fined $250. This violation is a petty misdemeanor, punishable with a fine of up to $1,000 and/or 30 days in jail.

"We are not sure why these bites are occurring more frequently than normal, especially around Maui. That’s why we are conducting a two-year study of shark behavior around Maui that may give us better insights,” said William J. Aila, Jr., DLNR Chairperson. “It is our hope and expectation that numbers of incidents will return to a more normal range in the near future.”