On February 10, 2025, the Hawaii House of Representatives introduced HB309, a legislative bill aimed at establishing a comprehensive inventory of fishponds located on state land. This initiative seeks to address the lack of data regarding these vital resources, which are publicly owned and play a significant role in the cultural and ecological landscape of Hawaii.

The primary purpose of HB309 is to create a working group under the University of Hawaii Sea Grant College Program. This group will be tasked with compiling an inventory that includes essential information about each fishpond, such as traditional names, types, sizes, historical conditions, and surrounding land uses. The bill emphasizes the importance of understanding the current state of these fishponds, many of which are in disrepair or have been destroyed, to ensure their preservation and potential restoration for future generations.

Key provisions of the bill outline the responsibilities of the working group, which will also produce a detailed map of all fishponds and conduct a literature review, including historical sources from Hawaiian language newspapers. The working group will be chaired by the director of the University of Hawaii Sea Grant College Program and will include representatives from the Department of Land and Natural Resources.

As discussions surrounding HB309 unfold, there has been notable support for the bill, particularly from environmental and cultural advocates who recognize the significance of fishponds in sustaining local ecosystems and preserving Hawaiian heritage. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the allocation of resources and the potential bureaucratic challenges in implementing the inventory.

The implications of this bill extend beyond mere data collection; it represents a commitment to stewardship of the ʻāina and the revitalization of traditional practices associated with fishpond management. Experts suggest that a comprehensive inventory could lead to enhanced conservation efforts, increased public awareness, and potential economic opportunities through sustainable aquaculture practices.

As HB309 progresses through the legislative process, its outcomes could set a precedent for similar initiatives aimed at preserving Hawaii's natural and cultural resources, highlighting the importance of informed stewardship in the face of environmental challenges. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential amendments as lawmakers consider the best path forward for this significant undertaking.