The staff of the Habitat Conservation Division (HCD) collaborates with communities, non-government organizations, as well as state and federal agencies to plan, facilitate and conduct research, restoration, conservation and mapping projects related to marine habitat. Our office also manages several funding avenues for conservation and restoration projects. A large part of HCD’s work is focused on the conservation of coral reefs. Staff works diligently with local partners to provide funding mechanisms, technical assistance and other support to aid efforts related to the protection and conservation of coral reefs in the region. As part of the Coral Reef Task Force's Local Action Strategy initiative, members of PIRO HCD staff coordinate and implement Hawaii's Fisheries Local Action Strategy.

2008 is the International Year of the Reef (IYOR) and we have been working with Hawaii’s IYOR coordinator to facilitate and participate in IYOR activities. At the Hawaii IYOR launching event staff coordinated five fishing related tables and hosted tables with information about Responsible Fishing and Ta‘ape, the Blueline Snapper. HCD understands and appreciates the importance of the IYOR theme and is excited about the opportunity to continue to support activities related to this significant event.