In 2002, the U.S. Coral Reef Task Force, in collaboration with the State of Hawaiʻi, created Local Action Strategies to address threats to coral reefs in U.S. jurisdictions with coral reefs. The Fisheries Local Action Strategy for Hawaiʻi (FLASH) addresses fishing-related impacts to coral reefs in the main Hawaiian Islands and coordinates with partners in other non-fisheries sectors to ensure a balanced approach to coral reef conservation. FLASH coordinates a Steering Committee (advisory board) and maintains a strategic plan to develop and implement targeted projects that reduce fishing-related impacts to coral reefs, promoting collaboration, outreach, and engagement among stakeholders; offering technical support; and identifying funding opportunities.
Vision Statement
The Fisheries Local Action Strategy’s Steering Committee envisions the main Hawaiian Islands with a healthy nearshore marine environment* that is maintained through effective management for the benefit and appreciation of all generations.
* FLASH defines a healthy nearshore marine environment as an environment where ecological and genetic diversity is balanced and maintained, all trophic groups (levels of the food chain) and size classes are represented, and the impacts to habitats are minimized such that marine species are at levels that can be sustainably harvested for recreational, commercial, subsistence, and cultural use.
Goals
- Maintain and restore ecosystem function and services of healthy coral reef ecosystems by supporting effective fishery management approaches based on sound science, responsible practice, and stewardship.
- To improve information exchange, communication, behavior, and relationships among stakeholders to enhance collaboration, engagement, and compliance.
Steering Committee
- Division of Aquatic Resources
- NOAA Fisheries Habitat Conservation Division
- NOAA's Office for Coastal Management
- NOAA National Ocean Service
- NOAA Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center
- Hawai'i Pacific University
- Conservation International Hawaiʻi Program
- Harold K.L. Castle Foundation
- The Nature Conservancy
- University of Hawai'i
- Western Pacific Fisheries Management Council
More Information
Michael Lameier, NOAA Fisheries Pacific Islands Regional Office
(808) 725-5000
