Section 13-60.4-1 - Intent and purpose(a) The intent and purpose of this chapter regarding the West Hawai'i regional fishery management area shall be to:(1) Establish the West Hawai'i regional fishery management area for improved management of consumptive and nonconsumptive uses of aquatic resources;(2) Ensure the sustainability of the State's nearshore ocean resources;(3) Identify areas with resource and use conflicts;(4) Minimize user conflicts and resource depletion in the West Hawai'i regional fishery management area, by designating fish replenishment areas and identifying other regulated areas where aquarium fish collecting is prohibited, areas where the use of gill nets as set nets is prohibited, and establishing a portion of the fish replenishment areas as fish reserves where no fishing of reef-dwelling fish is allowed;(5) Establish a system of day-use mooring buoys in high-use coral reef areas and prohibit anchoring in some of these areas to prevent anchor damage to corals;(6) Identify areas and resources of statewide significance for protection;(7) Facilitate scientific research and monitoring of the nearshore resources and environment; and(8) Facilitate the substantive involvement of the community in resource management decisions for the West Hawai'i regional fishery management area through dialogue with community residents and resource users.(b) Native Hawaiian traditional and customary rights with regard to marine resources for subsistence, cultural, and religious purposes are recognized. Claims for traditional and customary rights will be decided by appropriate agencies when a claims procedure is established.[Eff 12/26/13] (Auth: HRS §§ 187A-5, 188-53, 188F-6) (Imp: HRS §§ 187A-5, 188-53, 188F-2, 188F-3, 188F-4, 188F-6)