Press Release

Commerce Secretary Visits Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale Sanctuary, Honors New Class of Volunteers

HONOLULU—While visiting the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez praised efforts contributing to a rebound in the humpback whale population and presented sanctuary volunteers with certificates of accomplishment.

Aided by whaling bans, marine conservations efforts and extensive education and outreach campaigns, the humpback whale population appears to be recovering. From a low of 1,000 humpbacks in the middle of the 20th century, scientists estimate there are now approximately 8,000 whales. Researchers estimate that the whale population is increasing by seven percent per year, putting the species on a track to double in just over a decade.

While on a tour of the sanctuary, Gutierrez told the volunteers, "The dedication you have given to this program has been critical to our success and truly has made a difference in our ability to meet our Nation's conservation and protection goals. With your support, the sanctuary's research, education and outreach programs will continue to grow and be able to reach a wider audience."

The volunteers are members of the local community trained by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to give presentations to sanctuary visitors on numerous marine-related subjects.

Gutierrez added, "I have heard the recent reports that Japan intends to increase their research whaling activities and will begin hunting humpback whales. I am troubled by these reports, but hopeful we can find common ground on the protection of these magnificent animals."

Over the past year, volunteers have worked approximately 15,000 hours helping researchers count whales, staffing outreach events and offices, and hosting school groups and visitors at the Maui office's education center and other sanctuary facilities.

The shallow, warm waters surrounding the main Hawaiian Islands constitute one of the world's most important humpback whale habitats. Approximately two-thirds of the entire North Pacific humpback whale population migrates to Hawaiian waters each winter to engage in calving, nursing and breeding activities.

The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary was designated to protect humpback whales and their habitat within the sanctuary. The sanctuary is administered by a partnership between NOAA and the State of Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources.

The NOAA National Marine Sanctuary Program seeks to increase the public awareness of America's marine resources and maritime heritage by conducting scientific research, monitoring, exploration and educational programs. Today, the sanctuary program manages 13 national marine sanctuaries and one marine national monument that together encompass more than 150,000 square miles of America's ocean and Great Lakes natural and cultural resources.