(AP) — The state is asking the public to comment on a proposal to install mooring buoys to address overcrowding at two popular manta ray viewing sites off the Kona Coast. West Hawaii Today reports the Department of Land and Natural Resources plans to install a total of 25 of the buoys. The plan would remove and reconfigure existing moorings at the sites, which weren’t permitted and aren’t managed or maintained by the state. The moorings would protect natural resources by eliminating the use of chains and anchors that can damage coral reefs. Public comment is due by July 23.
© copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved
