Division of Aquatic Resources

The Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR) is working with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Office of National Marine Sanctuaries on the national marine sanctuary designation process for Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. DAR is providing continuing updates about the sanctuary designation process that began in 2021. A national marine sanctuary would be an additional layer of protection over the marine areas of the monument and does not replace or remove any other protections. National marine sanctuaries are created through a complex process involving significant public input. Draft designation documents are projected to be published this fall. DAR and NOAA drafted a flyer as we begin ramping up outreach for this process. We also have an FAQ document on the DAR website. DAR will share more updates closer to publication this fall.