New NOAA Habitat Focus Areas

NOAA has chosen areas of Guam and Hawaii as the next Habitat Focus Areas under NOAA’s Habitat Blueprint program.
     

Manell-Geus, Guam

Located at the southern tip of Guam, the Manell-Geus watershed contains extensive seagrass beds and coral reefs that support the local village’s strong fishing tradition.

The seagrass beds and patch reefs in Cocos Lagoon also provide important forage and resting habitat for sea turtles.

West Hawaii

The west side of the Big Island is known for white sandy beaches and coral reefs that make it a popular tourist destination. The region is home to several threatened and endangered species as well as species of concern that are important to Hawaii’s economy, culture, and environment.

The South Kohala district is one of the fastest growing areas on the Big Island and development is on the rise. Land uses range from military, residential, and commercial sites to resort areas and very popular beaches. There are a variety of historical sites including archeological sites, traditional fishing areas, gathering sites, and Hawaiian fish ponds.

For more information, visit: http://www.habitat.noaa.gov/habitatblueprint/pacificislands.html

source: habitat.noaa.gov