Tailored Applications

Tailored Applications

HIMARC collaborates with resource managers to provide tailored analyses that help support regulatory agencies in protecting and conserving nearshore resources. Co-producing this research ensures strong alignment between managers and scientists to drive data-driven policy and foster resource abundance. Throughout this process, HIMARC acknowledges that the data collection, research, and management that occurs within our work is performed on land belonging to Kānaka Maoli native to the islands of Hawai‘i.

Some of our projects:

Distribution of Pākuʻikuʻi

Pākuʻikuʻi (Achilles tang, Acanthurus achilles) are an ecologically and culturally vital reef fish in Hawaiʻi, but documented population declines in recent years have made their conservation a high priority for the State’s Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR). In 2022, the Big Island of Hawai‘i adopted a 2-year fishing ban on the species, which was extended in 2024 until the end of 2026. To support effective management, HIMARC has provided data science and analytical support to evaluate the ecological thresholds and habitat requirements of this vulnerable species.

See the full publication here.

Maunalua Bay Fisheries Management Area

HIMARC is actively supporting the monitoring of the Maunalua Bay Fisheries Management Area (FMA) on Oʻahu, an initiative originally conceptualized and championed by the community non-profit Mālama Maunalua. Working in close collaboration with the State of Hawaiʻi’s Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR), HIMARC is helping to design the comprehensive ecological monitoring framework needed to track the FMA’s long-term health and resource trends. Additionally, HIMARC provided scientific divers to assist directly with field operations required to establish the region’s baseline data.

We recognize that the space of indigenous data, data sharing, and co-production is evolving and we are committed to contributing to advancements in this area – doing so with transparency, respect and reciprocity.