The bill appropriates a total of $300,000 for the fiscal year 2022-2023, specifically earmarked for the Department of Land and Natural Resources’ hatchery program. This financial support aims to provide fingerlings for the restoration and management of fishponds and establish a new aquaculture coordinator position. This strategy is expected to generate positive outcomes for both environmental restoration and enhancement of local aquaculture practices, helping to ensure that fishponds can meet their ecological and cultural potential.
SB3378 is a legislative proposal aimed at supporting the restoration and sustainable management of traditional fishponds, known as loko ia, in Hawaii. The bill acknowledges the cultural significance of fishponds in Hawaiian heritage and their ecological importance in maintaining watershed health. Recognizing that fishponds can enhance food security in the state, the bill seeks to take actionable steps to revitalize these vital resources by appropriating funds for a hatchery program designed to restock these areas with juvenile fish, thereby supporting the local ecosystem and community practices.
While the bill generally enjoys support due to its focus on cultural preservation and ecological restoration, it may face concerns related to funding allocation and the long-term sustainability of such initiatives. Stakeholders might highlight the importance of ensuring that funds are utilized effectively and that any new positions created under this bill are adequately filled and supported to carry out the necessary work. Additionally, the implementation of the hatchery program must balance ecological health with local fishing needs to avoid any unintended negative consequences.