DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

News Release

LINDA LINGLE

GOVERNOR

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

PETER T. YOUNG, CHAIRPERSON

Phone: (808) 587-0401

Fax: (808) 587-0390

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For Immediate Release: November 13, 2006

DLNR Advises Public Of Potential Danger
From Sharks Following Death of Humpback Whale

KAILUA-KONA — The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) is advising the public to use caution in waters of Holualoa bay on the Kona coast following the death of a young humpback whale today and subsequent feeding by sharks.

Late this afternoon, the vessel Kona Blue rendered assistance and towed the whale carcass out to sea. However, the whale and sharks had come within 125 yards of the shoreline and there was some indication that small pieces of the whale remained in the water.

“We are working with County officials and are prepared to post warning signs should the need arise,” said Peter Young, DLNR chairperson. “We will continue to monitor the area for presence of sharks through tomorrow,” added Young.

County lifeguards have posted signs at Kahaluu and Magic Sands beaches. Tuesday morning, Hawaii County Fire Department will do a helicopter overflight. A decision to take down warning signs will not be made until after the flight.

“I commend the crew of the Kona Blue for their timely assistance. Thanks also to our staff from the Division of Aquatic Resources who monitored the whale’s position from their vessel today,” he said.

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For more information, contact:
Deborah Ward
DLNR Public Information Specialist
Phone: (808) 587-0320