Honolulu, Hawaii — Marine patrol units from the state Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) are actively monitoring the waters surrounding Oahu, Hawaii Island, Maui, and Kauai. These patrols oversee approximately 700 miles of coastline, enforcing regulations from the high-water mark of beaches to three miles offshore, according to Jason Redulla, chief of the Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE).
DOCARE officers play a critical role in safeguarding Hawaii’s natural resources, focusing on education as much as enforcement. Errol Kane, the lead officer for Oahu’s marine patrol, emphasized the need for a continued presence to protect the islands’ unique environment. “Hawaii’s economy is rooted in its natural resources,” Kane noted, highlighting the significance of both ocean and mountain ecosystems.
Many of the marine patrol officers are highly skilled watermen and women, including former lifeguards. Instead of immediately citing violators, they often opt to issue warnings and educate beachgoers, surfers, and boat operators about regulations, such as ensuring children wear life jackets and that boats operate in permitted areas.
On June 19, a three-person marine unit on Hawaii Island conducted a nighttime operation at Keauhou Bay, where they found several commercial tour boats carrying hundreds of passengers to view manta rays. This operation involved safety inspections of vessels to verify that all necessary safety equipment was on board and that boats were properly licensed.
Occasionally, the DOCARE units collaborate with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), particularly in matters concerning protected marine species. Though NOAA does not have law enforcement officers stationed in Hawaii, DOCARE officers can report violations outside their jurisdiction. Officer Amanda Llanes recently utilized a drone during a patrol to monitor kayaks and commercial boats in proximity to a pod of spinner dolphins. While she could not confirm any federal violations at the time, the evidence gathered was sent to NOAA for further evaluation.
Llanes recounted the process: “We document and report our findings, and then NOAA decides if they want to pursue prosecution.”
Kane emphasized a philosophy of leniency during enforcement efforts, reflecting Hawaii’s cultural values. “We try to give people a break, but we can only do so much,” he said. “If someone violates the law multiple times, they can expect a citation.”
The implementation of these marine patrol units demonstrates a commitment to preserving and protecting Hawaii’s precious natural resources while balancing enforcement and community engagement.
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