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Marine Life Conservation Districts - Hawaii

Published by Pacific Islands Ocean Observing System (PacIOOS) | National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Department of Commerce | Metadata Last Checked: January 27, 2026 | Last Modified: 2016-01-25T00:00:00.000+00:00
First introduced to Hawaii in 1967 with Hanauama Bay on Oahu, Marine Life Conservation Districts (MLCD) are designed to conserve and replenish marine resources. MLCDs allow only limited fishing and other consumptive uses, or prohibit such uses entirely. They provide fish and other aquatic life with a protected area in which to grow and reproduce, and are home to a great variety of species. MLCDs are established by the State of Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), as authorized by Chapter 190 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes. Suggestions for areas to be included in the MLCD system may come from the State Legislature or the general public. In addition, the DLNR's Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR) regularly conducts surveys of marine ecosystems throughout the state, and may recommend MLCD status for areas. For further information, please see: http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dar/marine-managed-areas/hawaii-marine-life-conservation-districts/

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