Papahanaumokuakea: Say What?!

Pronunciation:   pa-pa-hah-now-mo-koo-ah-keh-ah

Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument is just over 582 thousand square miles in size. It was created to protect natural and cultural resources. The shallow waters of Hawaii and the surrounding areas, are a vital component in the survival of many rare species. There are over 7,000 marine species with habitats in the Hawaiian Archipelago, and another 22 species of birds that nest and breed there. 25% of these species are native to Hawaii and cannot be found anywhere else on earth.

The area is also filled with cultural sites that Native Hawaiians have designated to be of "spiritual significance". In an attempt to protect all of these things, US Presidents, and Hawaiian Governors have worked together for more than 100 years to protect this area; each time increasing the protection and boundaries around the monument. No ship may enter or leave the monument without prior and proper communication. The monument is co-managed by a group of trustees, and agencies that work together to ensure the vision and mission of the monument are achieved.

Vision: To forever protect and perpetuate ecosystem health and diversity and Native Hawaiian cultural significance of Papahanaumokuakea.

Mission: To carry out seamless integrated management to ensure ecological integrity and achieve strong, long-term protection and perpetuation of NWHI ecosystems, Native Hawaiian culture, and heritage resources for current and future generations.

Vision and Mission Statements Credited to : http://www.papahanaumokuakea.gov/