The Hawaiian green sea turtle was put on the endangered species list more than 30 years ago, but new research shows the population has grown substantially, prompting discussion of taking the animal off the list.
Nearly 40 years ago, scientists say the Hawaiian green sea turtle population was kept alive by just a hundred female turtles.
"The population had reduced so much that they were listed on the Endangered Species Act," said Paul Dalzell of the Western Pacific Fishery Council.
Once harvested for their eggs, meat and shell this species of turtle along with all others in the ocean is protected by law. Now studies show the honu population is thriving with nesting female counts near 600.
"Getting a six-fold increase over that three decades is a good indication that the population is doing well," Dalzell said.
It’s believed there are more than 60,000 turtles living in the waters and on the sand near the Hawaiian Islands bringing the turtle count close to capacity. Some say this is enough to de-list them from the endangered species list and change how we treat them.
"On the other hand too, you have to remember folks, here used to eat turtles particularly native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders there are different perspectives, some folks wanna just enjoy them as wildlife," Dalzell said.
Currently it is a felony to interact with or harm a sea turtle.
"There’s clearly what I would call conflicting or very diverse or polarized view points. Well we’d like to hear those view points…forum is not there to make any decisions we just want to hear what people have to say," Dalzell said.
A public forum to discuss the future of the Hawaiian green turtle will be held Thursday night in Waikiki.
The will be help at the Elks Club at 2933 Kalakaua Avenue from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
For more information call 522-8220.
See the original article at: KHON2 Local News
