HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - The state Board of Land and Natural Resources (BLNR) heard nearly eight hours of testimony Friday on a proposal to allow commercial aquarium fishing off West Hawaii.

The practice was put on hold years ago, but the state’s Division of Aquatic Resources supported a new proposal to allow permitted collectors to remove a set number of eight species, including yellow tangs.

BLNR voted to remove several native species, including Kole and Umamale.

Supporters cited the valuable economic impact, while opponents said it would harm the ecosystem.

“I’d like to see our people keep our values,” said a testifier. “It’s time for us to push back. We need people like you to listen to our pleas.”

“What I’m asking you today is to make a 2025 decision, not a 1995 decision. Thi

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