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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0326.008 2020-2022 � � / ^�mwux'k�� ' Letter in support of Resolution 166-21 urging NOAA to promptly finalize and issue its' publication of proposedru|e "ProtecdveRegu|ationsforHawaiiSpinnerDo|phinsundertheK4arineMamma| Protection Act." My name is Charles Young, and I am writing in strong support of County Resolution 166-21 submitted by Councilmember David. I reside in Kealia,S. Kona and I have on many occasions personally witnessed residents,tourists, and commercial tour operators swim into dolphin pods at Hookena Beach and harass them while they are trying to rest after feeding at night. NOAA and other scientist's have confirmed that this human interaction is harmful to dolphin, particularly when they are in their resting state. I belong to KUPA Friends of Hookena Beach Park. Our organization has helped co-manage Hookena Beach Park under aMemorandum ofUnderstanding(MOU)vvi1htheHawaiiCountyDept. ofPorksand Recreation since 2006. Over this period our members have seen a significant increase in the number of visitors to the park and the number of visitors and commercial tour operators who harass the dolphin, I am using the term "harass"as defined in the statutes. Our organization has worked closely with NOAA over the years to help promulgate the proposed rules and although our organization and our community would supporta complete ban on any intentional human interaction with dolphin,we believe that the proposed rules ofmandatory buffer zones will agoa long way toward protecting the dolphin from the harmful effects of wanton human interaction. I realize that protection for marine mammals fall under the jurisdiction of the federal government however the County of Hawaii is correct in asserting its'concerns on behalf of the communities that they serve and the communities who are directly impacted by the actions of those entering the communities. | believe that the proposed rules would not only help protect the dolphin, but it would also help reduce the conflicts between visitors and communities. Mahalo for this opportunity to voice strong support for Resolution 166-21. Charles Young Honaunau, Hi96726 808979052 cotrr��'