15 named to Hawaiian humpback sanctuary advisory council
Advertiser Staff
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary has selected seven new primary members and eight alternates to serve on its sanctuary advisory council, NOAA said in a news release.
The new appointees bring a range of experience to the council, which provides sanctuary staff with input and recommendations on sanctuary programs and management, NOAA said.
"The sanctuary is extremely excited about the selection of these new members," sanctuary superintendent Naomi McIntosh said in a statement. "We look forward to working with them to continue to develop program efforts that enhance protection for Hawaii's humpback whales."
The new advisory council members are
Established in 1996, the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council provides advice and recommendations on managing and protecting humpback whales.
The council is composed of 16 government and 15 nongovernmental representatives. Serving in a volunteer capacity, the council members represent a variety of local user groups, as well as the general public. Sanctuary advisory council primary and alternate members serve two-year terms and meet bi-monthly in public sessions.
The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary is administered by a partnership between NOAA and the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. The shallow, warm waters surrounding the main Hawaiian Islands constitute one of the world's most important humpback whale habitats.
