Hanauma BayThe state kicks off a new campaign this month to revisit its marine protection policies.
The Department of Land and Natural Resources is considering beefing up the rules at some areas, but lessening the restrictions at others.
Hanauma Bay is one of 43 Marine Protected Areas in the islands.
"A marine protected area for us is a management tool to protect and preserve the resource," said DLNR Chairman Pete Young.
There are 5 kinds of marine protected areas: Marine Life Conservation Districts, Fishery Management Areas, Fisheries Replentishment Areas, Wildlife Sancturies, and Natural Area Reserves.
Periodically, the state revisits its policies to make sure each area is getting the right amount of management.
Officials point out, "conservation" doesn't necessarily mean "no fishing."
"Maybe designating some areas specifically are there to encourage fishing," said Young.
Sometimes, the state adds a new category to its list of Protected Areas.
"Hanauma Bay is a Marine Life Conservation District. When you look at it and go there it acts like a Marine Park. Should we come up with a new category called Marine Park?" Young posed.
The public is invited to discuss all these questions, and more, at a series of meetings the state will be putting together.
The state wants to make sure fishermen are involved because it's been a sensitive topic with them.
"There's some skepticism about Marine Protected Areas and we'd like them to come on board and have a broader discussion with us. Marine Protected Areas (MPA) does not mean no fishing," added Young.
The goal is to work together to protect the ocean for future generations.
Hanauma Bay manager Alan Wong explained, "MPA's contribute to the preservation of these irreplaceable resources that will be available for future use and enjoyment."
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