2008

Lots of coral reef issues in the news here.

A recent mapping effort by the federal government revealed the coral reef ecosystem "thriving" off the Big Island, as reported here.

A Maui company was proposed to receive a $672,618 fine for coral reef damage at Molokini.  Apparently, as a result of a vessel mishap…

Thanks to cgblog.org for their post on the new National Response Framework published by the Department of Homeland Security. 

This framework "adds" on to the National Response Plan and is used for interagency (federal/state/local) responses to incidents.  In the maritime context, the National Response Plan was frequently used for pollution incidents and cleanup.

Maui News reports on the difficulties posed by the TWIC implementation at Kahului Harbor. I discussed TWICs here.  TWIC implementation nationwide has been challenging on several levels.  Hopefully, these transition issues can be sorted out and the nation’s ports can become more secure.

Honolulu Advertiser reports that the Kona Blue Water fish farm is seeking permits to increase the size of their operation off the Kona coast of the Big Island.  Opponents sought a "contested case" hearing and an Environmental Impact Statement before granting the expansion request.  This is one to watch because ocean-based aquaculture is touted as…

Coastguardnews.com reports here that the Incident Specific Preparedness Review initial report on the Cosco Busan incident has been sent to Coast Guard Headquarters with public release expected in two weeks.

This review "While not an investigation, the ISPR process is an administrative assessment rooted in Coast Guard marine safety directives. It provides a method for…