Due to coral spawning, Kahalu‘u Beach Park in Kona will be closed from May 5 – May 12. The closure aims to enhance the spawning of cauliflower coral, a vital process for rejuvenating the coral reef ecosystem.
During this time, the Kohala Center’s Kahalu‘u Bay Education Center (KBEC) and the Division of Land and Natural Resources Division of Aquatic Resources (DLNR-DAR) are asking the public to voluntarily refrain from swimming and snorkeling in Kahaluʻu Bay to enhance the spawning of cauliflower coral. Coral gametes will more likely be able to find suitable reef areas to recolonize within the bay if given a chance to settle undisturbed by human activity and/or pollutants.
KBEC and its ReefTeach program have encouraged proper reef etiquette to mitigate negative human impact on coral reef ecosystems.
In a press release Hawaiʻi County Mayor Mitch Roth said, “Our administration remains steadfast in our efforts to protect our natural and cultural resources here on Hawaiʻi Island. Thanks to the work of Aunty Cindi and her team, Kahaluʻu Bay has seen a significant resurgence of its natural sea life, and we hope the community will join us in respecting the area through the vital period of coral spawning.”
For further information contact the Kahalu’u Bay Education Center at (808) 895-1010.