EDUCATING VISITORS, RESIDENTS IMPORTANT

For years, Hawaii has been known and recognized for its amazing reefs, which in the past were teeming with fish and coral species. But now our damaging habits such as overfishing, pollution, anchoring and walking on reefs have taken an extremely high toll.

In order to save our reefs and avoid a decrease in statewide revenue, we need to raise awareness about just how damaging our habits have become.

Tourists — our main source of income on the islands — are immediately drawn to the beauty of our oceans. Who wouldn't want to snorkel in Poipu or at Hanauma Bay and see species of fish they haven't even dreamed of? If we continue to abuse our reef systems, our most attractive asset will deteriorate beyond repair. If we don't educate people on the importance of our reef system, our state will lose its reputation as a place of supreme beauty, along with a portion of valuable tourism.

The best way to prevent further harm to our underwater suburbs would be to educate Hawaii's visitors and residents about how to care for our precious reefs. If we can enlighten those who just don't know better, we can greatly decrease the amount of damage our reefs will suffer.