NOAA proposed this week designating portions of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument in Hawaii as a new national marine sanctuary.
Under NOAA’s proposal, which was released Thursday, the agency would team up with the state of Hawaii to co-manage the sanctuary.
“This proposed designation furthers the Biden-Harris Administration’s steadfast commitment to conserving and protecting vital marine ecosystems,” said NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad.
In a statement, NOAA said the Papahānaumokuākea National Marine Sanctuary “would supplement and complement existing authorities” and help provide comprehensive protections for everything from wildlife to cultural and maritime heritage resources.