Resource Management & Protection

Limiting Access and Managing Risks

Many threats to the ecosystems of Papahānaumokuākea are posed by human activities. In the past, a number of scientific, military, and commercial activities have threatened the NWHI. Current uses are limited primarily to management activities by jurisdictional agencies, research, education, Native Hawaiian practices, and a small number of recreational trips and visits to historical sites at Midway Atoll.

The Monument is working to reduce threats through an ecosystem approach to management. This includes the development of an effective regulatory framework and permitting process, education and outreach, preventative measures to minimize risk, and response and restoration to damaged or degraded natural resources.

The Monument is also developing means to better manage risks to the area such as vessel groundings, and increase enforcement capability to address threats from illegitimate or illegal activities.

• Permit application process information
• Current permit summaries and applications
• Finalized Particularly Sensitive Sea Area (PSSA) Ship Reporting Requirements