Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement

LIHUE -- The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) has noticed a significant increase in illegal vending on state land throughout Kauai County and reminds the public that violations are punishable by a fine and/or jail time. Officers have generally observed illegal venders engaged in commercial activities, selling craft items and other merchandise to members of the public. DOCARE has specifically issued citations at Opaekaa Falls and Wailua Falls, both areas under the jurisdiction of Division of State Parks.

"We are closing the beach because of the reported aggressive behavior of the shark that was made to lifeguards," said Randy Awo, DOCARE Chief. "This is occurring in the same vicinity of Monday's fatal shark bite incident."

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.

DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES News Release NEIL ABERCROMBIE GOVERNOR WILLIAM J. AILA JR, CHAIRPERSON For Immediate News Release November 27, 2013 STATE CRITICAL OF TV PROGRAM MISREPRESENTING HUNTING ...
Read More State Critical Of TV Program Misrepresenting Hunting In Hawaii – Investigation launched into possible law violations while filming

WAIANAE, Hawaii – Two thrill craft operators were sentenced this month to a $300 fine each and a 30-day prohibition on operating any jet ski in state waters, after being cited for operating jet skis without possessing required certifications and navigation lights.

HONOLULU — The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) announces the opening of akule fishing for Waimea Bay Ocean Waters from Nov. 1 to Dec. 31, 2013. “Pupukea Marine Life Conservation District (MLCD) prohibits the take of marine resources, with the exception of the Waimea Bay portion of the MLCD. The Waimea Bay portion allows for poll and line fishing year round, as well as take of akule using net fishing methods during November and December,” explained BLNR Chairperson, William J. Aila, Jr. “These two months of the year provide fishers access to traditional akule fishing grounds. This period, along with the opelu period from August to September, provides access to the traditional net fishing grounds while conserving the marine resources within the rest of the MLCD.”

Interested persons wanting additional details regarding the feral cattle control program, application process and/or special accommodations, may contact Division of Forestry and Wildlife in Hilo at (808) 974-4221.

“The public can help prevent damage to our coral reefs and waste of marine life in our ocean environment by reporting abandoned nets or entangled marine life to DOCARE at 643-DLNR. Fishers can also help by registering and tagging their lay nets and following state soak time and checking time rules,” urged William J. Aila, Jr., DLNR chairperson.

“Enforcement of laynet use is crucial in DLNR’s mission to ensure the sustainability of marine resources through compliance with state rules in Hawaiian waters, and to ensure that endangered species are not harmed,” said William J. Aila, Jr., DLNR chairperson.

“Ocean water safety is of utmost importance. Any type of reckless behavior by vessel operators that has the potential to endanger other ocean water users is not acceptable and law enforcement response will take place,” said Randy Awo, DOCARE Chief.