Community-Based Advisory Council

A sanctuary advisory council (council) is a community-based advisory group consisting of representatives from various user groups, government agencies and the public at large. The role of the council is to provide advice to the sanctuary superintendent on the designation and/or operation of a national marine sanctuary and to serve as liaisons between their constituents in the community and the sanctuary. Council members disseminate information about the sanctuary and bring the concerns of constituents and the public to the attention of sanctuary management. All fourteen sites in the sanctuary system have an advisory council.

The council, established in March 1996, is comprised of 52 primary and alternate members. Voting members represent the Islands of Molokaʻi, Lanaʻi, Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi, Maui, and Oʻahu in addition to local user groups, Native Hawaiian cultural advisors, fishing, business, conservation, science, education, and community representatives. Non-voting federal and state agency representatives also hold seats on the council. Members are appointed by the sanctuary management in consultation with the Director of NOAA's Office of National Marine Sanctuaries.

Find out more about the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council.

Read the Council Charter which guides operations of the Council.