The state is reminding folks that discarded fishing nets and large marine debris that you cannot remove by yourself must be reported.
The debris can entangle and kill endangered species such as whales, monk seals and sea turtles. Fishing nets can also tear coral.
Large marine debris found onshore or in the water can be reported by calling 833-4da-nets (833-432-6387) hotline. Residents and visitors on Kaua‘i, O‘ahu, Maui and Hawai‘i Island can call the number.
On O‘ahu, 4ocean works in collaboration with Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii as well as Hawaii Marine Animal Response to quickly respond to the marine debris reports. These organizations work collaboratively to try and usually remove the nets within hours of a report.
About 6,000 pounds of fishing gear was removed in 2021 due to reporting.
