Ocean

Hawaiian Judge Reinstates Ocean Protections, Halting Commercial Fishing in Pacific Marine Monument

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HONOLULU, Hawaii — A federal judge has ordered a halt to commercial fishing in a significant area of the Pacific Ocean, siding with environmentalists who argued against a rollback of federal protections implemented during the Trump administration. The ruling, issued by U.S. District Judge Micah W. J. Smith, reinstates protections for the Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument, home to diverse marine life including turtles, seabirds, and mammals. Environmental advocates assert that longline fishing, which involves baited hooks on lines measuring 60 miles or longer, poses a significant threat to these species. The Trump administration’s … Read more

Hawaii Judge Restores Ocean Protections, Halting Commercial Fishing in Pacific National Monument After Environmentalists’ Challenge

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HONOLULU — A federal judge in Hawaii has supported environmental advocates by ordering a halt to commercial fishing in a vast area of the Pacific Ocean, a move that challenges an earlier decision made under the Trump administration to roll back ocean protections. The ruling affects the Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument, a designated area that shelters various marine species such as turtles, seabirds, and marine mammals. Environmental organizations argue that longline fishing, which uses baited hooks on lines stretching up to 60 miles, poses a significant threat to these vulnerable species. In 2017, … Read more

Tragic Loss of Renowned Shipwreck Explorer Joe Mazraani During Ocean Expedition

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MONMOUTH COUNTY, N.J. — A prominent shipwreck explorer and attorney tragically perished last week during an underwater expedition, as confirmed by his company, Atlantic Wreck Salvage. Joe Mazraani, 47, was leading a dive operation near Georges Bank, situated off the coast of Massachusetts, when the incident occurred on July 29. Mazraani, recognized for his extensive contributions to marine archaeology, had amassed a notable record of historic discoveries throughout his career. Details surrounding the circumstances of his death have not been disclosed following the announcement from his company. In a heartfelt tribute posted on social media, … Read more

Hawaii’s Marine Patrol Units Launch Coastal Initiative to Protect Ocean Ecosystems and Promote Awareness

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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 … Read more