Fact Sheet: Proposed Time-Area Closures for Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins

On September 28, 2021, NOAA Fisheries published a proposed rule to establish time-area closures at Hawaiian spinner dolphin’s essential daytime habitats. Under the proposed rule, designated portions of five bays on Hawaiʻi Island (Kealakekua Bay, Hōnaunau Bay, Kauhakō Bay, and Makako Bay) and Maui (La Perouse Bay) would be closed from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. NOAA Fisheries is accepting public comments on the proposed rule until December 27, 2021.