Attachment_1_-SON_-_July_31,_2019_-_FINAL_VERSION.docx

PMNM BMP #018

STATEMENT OF NEED (SON)

PROVIDE VESSEL TO RECOVER ONE (1) NOAA BUOY; PROVIDE PRE/POST SALVAGE EXECUTION PLAN AND SUPPORT THE ROV VIDEO SURVEY

JULY 31, 2019

1.0 SUMMARY OF REQUIREMENTS:

This Statement of Need provides the requirements for the recovery and salvage of one (1) NOAA Buoy #3D61 from Lisianski Island within the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM). It also provides the requirements for the survey of near shore resources affected by the ingress of the buoy including areas in which the mooring became artificially anchored.

2.0 BACKGROUND

NOAA Buoy 3D61 was deployed at station 51101 (186 NM NW of Kauai Island, HI) on October 19, 2016. On March 28, 2018 the buoy was reported outside of its watch circle and considered to be adrift trailing an unknown length of its mooring. The buoy drifted into the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM) on October 21, 2018. While transiting through the PMNM the mooring became entangled in the seafloor thereby re‐mooring itself in three distinct locations; (A) 26.1100N 173.857W in 100ft of water, (B) 26.1095N 173.934W in 90ft of water, and (C) 26.0892N 173.951W in 45ft of water.

On February 8th, 2019 the buoy went ashore on the eastern side of Lisianski Island at 26.0646N 173.9608W and has been reporting a near constant 45‐degree tilt angle indicating that the buoy is out of the water and is being supported by the bridle and the hull at this heeled over angle. The buoy continues to operate and transmit hourly messages.

2.1 BUOY INFORMATION

Buoy 3D61, is a 3‐meter buoy with a diameter of 10 feet and a tower height of 18 feet above the water surface. The hull depth and tripod extend 8 feet below the water surface. The buoy weighs 3,800 lbs and is made of aluminum shell, tower and well. The bridle is constructed from the mild steel. The buoy contains no petroleum products or other hazardous materials other than batteries located within the center compartment of the buoy. The photos below show a similar buoy deployed on station. Note that this buoy has a mooring tripod or bridle bolted on the underside that extends about 8 feet below the surface. It is marked with station number “51101” and is designated “511x1” for reference. Reference mechanical drawings of the buoy structure are provided in APPENDIX A.

The only hazardous materials that are associated with the buoy are the batteries that are part of the buoys power system. These include a quantity of 6 secondary rechargeable batteries (Sun Extender PVX‐1080T). These batteries produce a small amount of hydrogen while charging. The buoy is equipped with 3 passive vents which should adequately remove enough of this hydrogen to prevent an explosive environment inside the hull. Also included in the power system are a quantity of 10 primary batteries (Cegassa ZincAir Alkaline 2AS10‐2). These batteries do not present a hazard unless the well becomes flooded. Under this condition, the batteries will produce an acid that is highly reactive with the aluminum material in the well that in turn produces a significant amount of hydrogen which will likely produce an explosive environment. NDBC has specific procedures in which to ascertain the presence of this condition and to eliminate the hazard.

The mooring is considered to be a deep‐water slack mooring at its original deployment location. At this time, the location within the mooring of the failure is unknown. In general, moorings tend to fail near the upper portion of the mooring. This mooring was designed for deployment in 4837m of water but the remnant remaining is likely significantly less. From a watch circle analysis, at the three re‐mooring locations the minimum length of line remaining from oldest to most recent would be 292ft, 247ft and 86ft. Based on this information the likely remaining mooring material consists of all or a portion of the 1” open link chain and a portion of the 1” fish bite line along with associated shackles and thimbles. A copy of the mooring diagram is included in APPENDIX B.

2.2 SITE INFORMATION

The buoy is located on the shore of Lisianski Island within the PMNM. Lisianski Island is located approximately 1000nm from Honolulu, HI and 225 nm from Midway Atoll Harbor. Lisianski Island is surrounded by significant coral reefs referred to as Neva Shoals.

The buoy is located on the eastern portion of the island, which is considered to be the windward side of the island.

The pictures above are taken on scene at low tide. High tide is described as being at the edge of the growth. Additional on scene photographs of the buoy on Lisianski Island can be found in APPENDIX C. The buoy has been disconnected from the mooring at the 3rd Class Split‐Key Shackle closest to the bridle. The remainder of the mooring nearshore to the buoy consists of 75ft of 1” chain and approximately 1ft of synthetic line. Both ends of this chain have been marked with a small float. This section is described as heading 41 degrees Northeast from the buoy in 2‐3ft of water. The chain is not hung up on any subsurface structures. The immediate area next to the buoy is described as being a hard‐bottom and covered in algae with little to no coral present. The bottom conditions persist outward from the shore to about 250ft‐300ft with the relative absence of coral only confirmed to 75ft from shore. There is a deeper channel approximately 100ft from the buoy. At the time of the visit, there were no nesting birds on or immediately around the buoy.

This area of the island is known to be favored by monk seals. A recent NOAA survey of the artificial anchor locations identified in section 2.0 shows no evidence of any remaining mooring components at these locations. Lisianski Island is part of the Hawaiian Islands National Wildlife Refuge which is included within the boundaries of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. All on scene activity will require a permit through the co‐managed PMNM. This permit will require at a minimum adherence to a series of applicable Best Management Practices (BMP) while conducting both terrestrial and marine activities while in the PMNM and in close proximity to Lisianski Island. A copy of these guidelines is included in APPENDIX D. Additionally, due to being located within a Wildlife Refuge use of any tools inside of the refuge aside from non‐powered hand tools will require a Minimum Requirements Analysis to be approved by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

3.0 MINIMUM TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

3.1 SALVAGE PLAN AND PERMITS

The contractor will develop a salvage strategy and generate the salvage plan. At a minimum this Salvage plan will include the following:

a) Removal of the NOAA 3m Aluminum Buoy from Lisianski Island. Provide vessel and small boat support for Remote Operating Vehicle (ROV) video survey of the following areas:

water to a radius of 50ft

b) Removal of any remnant mooring components from Lisianski Island and the near shore section of chain identified in section 2.2.

c) Post removal ROV survey of egress path from shore to outer reef crest along transit pathway as needed if recovery effort was suspected of damaging any of the marine structure or habitat.

The contractor shall obtain a permit and approval to execute this salvage plan through the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM) and the State of Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources including any necessary environmental and wildlife consultations as part of the permitting process. This line item will be considered to be complete when all consultations are complete, the salvage plan has been approved by the PMNM and the State of Hawaii and permits to execute the salvage plan have been granted by the PMNM and the State of Hawaii. Details about the PMNM permitting program can be found at the following link: https://www.papahanaumokuakea.gov/permit/welcome.html

3.2 PRE/POST‐SALVAGE SURVEY

The contractor will provide the vessel, small boat, crew, fuel, consumables, and all material and all equipment required to support the Remote Operating Vehicle (ROV) video survey. The ROV will be provided by the State of Hawaii and the survey will be performed by the State of Hawaii Resource Monitor(s). In addition, the contractor will provide accommodations for four (4) observers including one (1) NOAA/NDBC Representative, one (1) NOAA/PMNM Resource Monitor, one (1) US Fish and Wildlife Resource Monitor and one (1) State of Hawaii Resource Monitor. This Pre‐Salvage survey shall be completed prior to any removal of the NOAA 3-Meter Aluminum Buoy from Lisianski Island or removal of any remnant mooring components. The ROV being used by the State of Hawaii Resource Monitors is a small video ROV with an approximate size of 16” x 12” x4”. To support the ROV survey the contractor shall provide small boat services including the operation and handling of the small boat for the duration of the survey. The ROV will be operated from the small boat at the locations listed in section 3.1 above.

The survey effort requires 2 days of time on scene to complete this operation. The contractor shall provide a day rate for additional days of survey work support in the event of weather‐related delays. All activities performed under this line item will be completed in strict adherence to the Best Management Practices identified in Section 2.2 and at the discretion of the Resource Monitors with regards to habitat and wildlife impact. This line item will be considered complete when that State of Hawaii Resource Monitors have completed the ROV survey or all funded days allotted for the survey have been used.

3.3 SALVAGE EXECUTION PLAN

The contractor will execute the approved Salvage Plan. For this action they will provide the vessel, crew, fuel, consumables, and all material and equipment required to perform the salvage activity. In addition, the contractor will provide accommodations for four (4) observers including one (1) NOAA/NDBC Representative, one (1) NOAA/PMNM Resource Monitor, one (1) US Fish and Wildlife Resource Monitor and one (1) State of Hawaii Resource Monitor.

Prior to performing any salvage activity involving the aground buoy the NOAA/NDBC Technician will determine if the buoy’s center compartment contains an explosive environment. If an explosive environment is detected, the NOAA/NDBC Technician will purge the center compartment until the atmosphere within the compartment is considered safe. The contractor shall provide one 80 SCF bottle of argon to support this effort. Additionally, the NOAA/NDBC Technician will remove all sensors and internal electronics payloads prior to any salvage activity being performed. The expected length of time to perform these functions is 4 hours.

Following the execution of the Salvage Plan the contractor shall return all recovered equipment to Honolulu, HI at a location where the equipment can be lifted onto a 40‐foot flat rack for transportation. The contractor shall offload all equipment and provide 7 days of port fees for the offloaded equipment. If the buoy was removed from Lisianski Island in separate pieces or if the buoy was damaged during the recovery then the contractor will be responsible for the disposal of the complete buoy or parts of the buoy at the discretion of the NOAA/NDBC.

All activities performed under this line item will be completed in strict adherence to the Best Management Practices identified in Section 2.2 and at the discretion of the Resource Monitors with regards to habitat and wildlife impact. This line item will be considered complete when the buoy and any mooring remnants have been recovered and returned to Honolulu, HI and either returned to NOAA/NDBC or disposed of at the direction of NOAA/NDBC. If any portion of this work is not able to be completed at the request of an on‐scene Resource Monitor, then the Contractor in cooperation with and endorsement of the on‐scene Resource Monitor shall provide a written report detailing this decision.

At a minimum, this report shall include the following; the activity that was not completed, meteorological conditions at the time, and habitat and or wildlife concern related to the decision including supporting evidence. This line item will be considered complete when the buoy and any mooring remnants have been recovered and returned to Honolulu, HI and either returned to NOAA/NDBC or disposed of at the direction of NOAA/NDBC. Alternatively, if a portion of the work was not able to be completed due to a habitat or wildlife concern, then the written report detailed above will satisfy the completion requirement for that portion of the line item.

4.0 CONTINGENCY SALAVAGE EXECUTION PLAN

4.1 A sound salvage approach shall include a contingency approach to ensure success. The contractor shall submit fixed price proposals for sections 3.1 Salvage Plan and Permits, 3.2 Pre/Post‐Salvage Survey support and 3.3 Salvage Execution Plan. In addition, the contractor will provide an additional day rate for additional support as needed for section 3.3 in the event of weather‐related delays during this portion.

5.0 GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY

5.1 The government shall provide the ROV video survey equipment for the State of Hawaii Resources Monitor to use of for egress path from shore to outer reef crest along transit pathway as needed if recovery effort was suspected of damaging any of the marine structure or habitat. The State of Hawaii Resource Monitor will be responsible for operating the ROV.

6.0 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

6.1 The contractor shall obtain the permit and receive signed approval of the Salvage Plan as detailed in section 3.3 within 90 days of award of the contract. The contractor shall complete the remainder of the work detailed in this SON within 180 days following the receipt of permit. If the on‐scene work is expected to fall within the period between November 1st and April 30th, the contractor may ask for an extension in writing in order to ensure the best possible chance for success for all activities. The contractor shall provide all points of contact on this Statement of Need a minimum of 30 days of notice prior to getting underway.

7.0 GOVERNMENT POINT OF CONTACTS:

NOAA/AGO Contracting Officer Jennifer A. Hildebrandt Phone: (757) 441-3433 E-Mail: Jennifer.hildebrandt@noaa.gov

NOAA/AGO Contract Specialist Kurt Weilbaecher Phone: (228) 688-2825 E-Mail: kurt.weilbaecher@noaa.gov

NOAA/NDBC Technical Contact (Buoy and mooring inquiries) Brett Taft Phone: (228)‐688‐2807 E-Mail: Brett.taft@noaa.gov

NOAA/PMNM Policy Specialist (Habitat and wildlife inquiries in Federal Waters) Justin Rivera Phone: (808)‐265‐6128 E-Mail: Justin.rivera@noaa.gov

US Fish and Wildlife Specialist (Habitat and wildlife inquiries in the Wildlife Refuge) Jared Underwood Phone: (808)‐792‐9560 E-Mail: Jared_underwood@fws.gov

State of Hawaii Specialist (Habitat and wildlife inquiries in State Waters and Lisianski Island) Maria A. Carnevale Phone: (808)‐587‐0115 E-M ail: Maria.a.carnevale@hawaii.gov

APPENDIX A – BUOY MECHANICAL DRAWINGS

MARINE ALIEN SPECIES INSPECTION STANDARDS FOR MARITIME VESSELS

Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument

Vessels destined for operation within the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM) shall be inspected for the presence of marine alien species prior to approval for an entry permit. This inspection will involve the detection of marine alien species associated with following mechanisms of transport:

1) Ballast Water (See US Coast Guard regulations 36 CFR Part 151 and 46 CFR Part 162 Docket No. USCG-2001-10486 RIN 1625-AA32) https://homeport.uscg.mil/mycg/portal/ep/home.do then go to Environmental section

2) Biofouling associated with the primary vessel and tender vessels

3) Biofouling of scientific equipment and/or instrument arrays

4) Live organism transport

Standards for Compliance

Ballast Water Vessels must have a US Coast Guard and/or International Maritime Organization ballast water management plan on board. The records of ballast water operations for the previous month with source locations must be made available at the time of inspection. If inspectors have concerns, access to salt water ballast tanks must be provided to allow water sampling. If any salt water ballast on board is deemed unacceptable the vessels master must employ ballast water management practices described in 36 CFR § 151 and 46 CFR Part 162 prior to entry in the PMNM. No ballast water discharge is allowed within the boundaries of the PMNM except in the case of emergencies as defined by the US Coast Guard: (33 CFR Subpart D 151.2040 “Discharge of Ballast Water in Extraordinary Circumstances”)

Biofouling All submerged and waterline surfaces must be free of macro-scale biofouling consisting of marine plants and animals. Surfaces must be free of any Chlorophyta (green-algae), Phaeophyta (brown algae), and Rhodophyta (red-algae) macro-algal species. Additionally, surfaces must be free of macro-invertebrate biofouling communities consisting of cnidarians (anemones and hydroids), arthropods (barnacles and macro-crustaceans), annelids (mobile and tube-dwelling worms), bryozoans, mollusks (clams, mussels and snails) and tunicates (sea squirts).

Live Organism Transport There can be no transport of live or recently alive marine organisms associated with food stores, aquaculture/aquarium broodstock, or research activities aboard vessels departing for operations within the PMNM

Page 1 of 1 Last Revised: 2014 January 29

PMNM BMP #001

HUMAN HAZARDS TO SEABIRDS BRIEFING

Most seabirds exhibit insular tameness, which is behavior characterized by a lack of the wariness you might observe in birds living in areas with terrestrial predators. Because of this, it sometimes appears by their actions as if humans pose no problems for them. In fact there are a number of potentially serious consequences every time a seabird colony is entered, even by experienced researchers.

Mechanical – At most seabird colonies in the central Pacific you will see birds nesting on three different levels, under the ground, on the surface, and in the shrubs and trees. At many times of the year it is difficult to walk in some parts of the colony without stepping on eggs or caving in the burrows of the petrels and shearwaters. Chicks of several of the tern species hide in vegetation so you should be careful about setting your foot where you cannot see the surface of the ground. Ground-nesting Grey-backed Terns and Brown Noddies are often most affected by your activities because they are very timid and nest in open areas that may be travel pathways. If you have occasion to have to walk in burrow areas you must be prepared to rescue a shearwater or petrel by digging if you accidentally cave in its home. Special care should be taken never to leave string or line anywhere in the colony. Seabirds have an uncanny ability to find it and get tangled in any material of this kind.

Thermal – The climate of the tropical and subtropical islands seems mild but the eggs and small chicks of all the species live a precarious life on the edge of thermal disaster. The attendance patterns of adults reflect this, with eggs and tiny chicks virtually never left unattended. Great care and attention must be given to never keeping a bird off its egg or chick for more than a few minutes. Keep this in mind if you must spend more than 3 or 4 minutes in any area. This is an issue when it is hot as well as when it is cool and wet. When first approaching a site look for any nest or adult flushed from an inconspicuous nest and plan your work to minimize keeping birds from attending their eggs or chicks.

Biological – In some colonies, one species may learn to take advantage of human disturbance to prey upon others. Frigate birds will take chicks and steal nest material from booby nests and other Frigate bird nests when the owners of the nest are frightened off by human disturbance. In colonies inhabited by finches of various species the minute an egg is exposed the finch will rush in and peck a hole and consume the contents. Unattended eggs of ground-nesting species are often eaten by shorebirds such as Ruddy Turnstones. All small seabirds are at great risk in colonies where there are introduced rats. It is possible that going up to isolated or cryptic nest and handling the eggs will provide a trail that might lead rats to the nest.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument

Page 1 of 1 Last Revised: 2007 May

PMNM BMP #003

PMNM BMP #004

BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (BMPS) FOR BOAT OPERATIONS AND DIVING ACTIVITIES

The National Marine Fisheries Service recommends the following BMPs be followed to reduce or eliminate adverse effects on protected marine species through potential interactions with in-water activities such as boat operations or diving. They are primarily aimed at small-scale projects such as research dives, marine debris removal, or small buoy placement or repair projects conducted by resource agencies or contracted personnel. These BMPs are not necessarily comprehensive for major construction activities:

1. Constant vigilance shall be kept for the presence of Federally-listed marine species;

2. When piloting vessels, vessel operators shall alter course to remain at least 100 yards from Hawaiian monk seal mom-pup pairs and humpback whales, and at least 50 yards from other marine mammals and sea turtles;

3. Reduce vessel speed to 10 knots or less when piloting vessels in the proximity of marine mammals;

4. Reduce vessel speed to 5 knots or less when piloting vessels in areas of known or suspected turtle activity;

5. Marine mammals and sea turtles should not be encircled or trapped between multiple vessels or between vessels and the shore;

6. If approached by a marine mammal or turtle, put the engine in neutral and allow the animal to pass;

7. Unless specifically covered under a separate permit that allows activity in proximity to marine protected species, all in-water work will be postponed when whales are within 100 yards, or other protected species are within 50 yards. Activity will commence only after the animal(s) depart the area;

8. Should marine protected species enter the area while in-water work is already in progress, the activity may continue only when that activity has no reasonable expectation to adversely affect the animal(s); and

9. Do not attempt to feed, touch, ride, or otherwise intentionally interact with any marine protected species.

Adopted by Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument

Page 1 of 1 Last revised: 2012 May

SPECIAL CONDITIONS AND RULES FOR MOVING BETWEEN ISLANDS / ATOLLS

AND

PACKING FOR FIELD CAMPS

The islands and atolls of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (Monument) and the Hawaiian Islands National Wildlife Refuge are special places providing habitat for many rare, endemic plants and animals. Many of these species are formally listed as Endangered under the Endangered Species Act. Endemic plants and insects, and the predators they support, are especially vulnerable to the introduction of competing or consuming species. Such introductions may cause the extinction of island and reef endemics, or even the destruction of entire island or reef ecological communities. Notable local examples include: the introduction of rabbits to Laysan Island in 1902 which caused the extinction of numerous plant and insect species, and 3 endemic landbird species; the introduction of rats to many Pacific Islands causing the elimination of many burrowing seabird colonies; the introduction of the annual grass, sandbur, to Laysan Island where it has crowded out native bunch grass thus, eliminating nesting habitat for the Endangered Laysan finch; and, the introduction and proliferation of numerous ant species throughout the Pacific Islands to the widespread detriment of endemic plant and insect species.

Several of the islands within the Monument are especially pristine, and as a result are rich in rare and special plants and animals. Nihoa Island has at least 17 endemic and rare insect species, 5 Endangered plants and 2 Endangered birds. Necker Island has Endangered plants and 11 endemic insects. Laysan Island has Endangered plants, 9 endemic arthropods and the Endangered Laysan finch and Laysan duck. Other islands in the Monument such as Lisianski, and islets in Atolls such as Pearl and Hermes Reef and French Frigate Shoals provide homes for a variety of endemic and/or endangered species and require special protection from alien species.

Other Pacific Island such as Kure and the “high islands” (Oahu, Hawaii, Maui, Kauai, etc.) as well as, certain islands within Midway Atoll, Pearl and Hermes Reef and French Frigate Shoals have plants and/or animals that are of high risk for introduction to the relatively pristine islands discussed above. Of special concerns are snakes, rats, cats, dogs, ants and a variety of other insect and plant species. Harmful plant species of highest concern that we know of are Verbesina encelioides, Cenchrus echinatus, and Setaria verticillata.

The Co-trustees are responsible for the management and protection of the islands, reefs and wildlife of the Monument. No one is permitted to set foot within the Monument without the express permission of the Co-trustees through the permitting process. Because of the above concerns, the following restrictions on the movement of personnel and materials throughout the Monument exist.

PMNM BMP #007

June 2007

The Following Conditions and Rules apply to the all islands within the Monument with the exception of those at French Frigate Shoals and Midway Atoll:

Definitions:

“new" means off the shelf and never used anywhere but the island in question. "clothing" is all apparel , shoes, socks, over and under garments.

"soft gear" is all gear such as daypacks, fannypacks, packing foam or similar material, camera bags, camera/binocular straps, microphone covers, nets, holding or weighing bags, bedding, tents, luggage, or any fabric, fiber, paper or material capable of harboring seeds or insects.

1. Any personnel who will be landing boats, and staying within the boats, at any island should have clean clothes and shoes.

2. Any personnel going ashore at any island and moving inshore from the immediate area in which waves are breaking, or beyond the intertidal area, at the time of landing must have new footwear, new or island specific clothes and new or island specific soft gear. All must be frozen for at least 48 hours prior to landing.

3. Any personnel entering any vegetated area, regardless of how sparse the vegetation, must have new footwear, new clothes and new soft gear all frozen for at least 48 hours prior to landing.

4. To avoid transport of seeds from within small boats the following protocol should be followed. For islands with safe or sandy landing conditions, one should keep quarantine shoes/socks inside quarantine containers until the island is reached. One should go ashore bare foot, and then don the quarantine shoes. Non-quarantine shoes should be removed in the small boat, put into a bucket or some kind of sealed container, and left enclosed in that container until the person departs the island. The sealed container, if clean on the outside, may go ashore, but should not be opened ashore. For landings which are rocky, rough, and relatively unsafe (such as Necker and Nihoa) for safety reasons, quarantine shoes should be donned when inside the small boats, but care should be taken to look for seeds and insects which may be in the small boat.

5. Soft gear may not be moved between islands. Hard gear must be thoroughly cleaned and frozen for at least 48 hours between islands.

6. During transit, clothing and gear coming off Kure, Midway, or any islet of French Frigate Shoals must be carefully sequestered to avoid contamination of gear bound for cleaner islands. Special care must be taken to avoid contaminating gear storage areas and quarters aboard transporting vessels with seeds or insects from these islands.

7. Regardless of origin or destination, inspect and clean all equipment, supplies, etc., just prior to any trip to the Monument. Carefully clean all clothing, footwear and softgear following use to minimize risk of cross contamination of materials between islands.

8. Pack supplies in plastic buckets with fitted lids or other sealable metal or plastic containers since they can be thoroughly cleaned inside and out. Cardboard is not permitted on islands. Cardboard boxes disintegrate in a short time and harbor seeds, animals, etc., which cannot be easily found or removed. Wood is not permitted unless sealed (painted or varnished) on all surfaces and frozen for 48 hours.

Wooden boxes can also harbor insects and seeds and therefore are only allowed if well-constructed (tight fitting seams are required). All wood must be treated, and inside and outside surfaces must be painted or varnished to provide a smooth, cleanable finish that seals all holes.

9. Freeze or tarp and fumigate then seal all equipment (clothes, books, tents, everything) just prior to departure. Food and cooking items need not be fumigated but should be cleaned and frozen, if freezable. Cameras, binoculars, radios, and other electronic equipment must be thoroughly cleaned, including internal inspection whenever possible, but do not need to be frozen or fumigated. Such equipment can only be packed in wooden crates if treated as in #2 above. Any containers must contain new, clean packing materials and be frozen or fumigated.

10. At present, Tern Island is the singular exception to the above rule, having less stringent rules due to the large number of previously established alien species. Careful inspection of all materials and containers is still required. However, it is acceptable to use wooden and cardboard containers for transporting supplies to Tem Island. Also, there is no requirement for freezing or fumigating items disembarked at Tem. Although requirements for Tem Island are more lax, the Refuge is still concerned about the possibilities of new introductions. Do not wear clothing to Tern Island that has been worn at Pearl and Hermes, Midway Atoll or Kure Atoll.

Additional Special Conditions for Travel to Nihoa and Necker (Mokumanamana) Islands: Nihoa and Necker are the most pristine locations in the Monument. Nihoa is home to the highest number of federally listed endangered species in the Monument. Many areas of these small rugged islands are inaccessible. Introduction of any alien species could have disastrous results in a very short time. It would be almost impossible to mount any kind of control or eradication program on these islands should an alien species become established. Because of these reasons, access to Nihoa and Necker are strictly limited, and rules governing entry are more stringent.

1. Access to Nihoa and Necker by permittees will only be allowed under the accompaniment and supervision of a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Representative. The representative, who shall be appointed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Monument Manager will work with permittees to assure careful compliance with all rules for inspection, handling and preparation of equipment. The USFWS Representative will have the authority to control and limit access to various parts of the island to protect animals, plants and archaeological sites, especially endangered species. The USFWS Representative will have the authority to disallow access to the island, or order an immediate departure from the island if conditions for working on the island are not met or are violated in some way.

PMNM BMP #007

2. All field equipment made out of fabric material or wood must be new, and never previously used in the Northwestern or main Hawaiian Islands. Equipment previously purchased or made for use on Nihoa and Necker that has been carefully sealed and stored while away from Nihoa and Necker, and not used elsewhere, may also be brought onto the island. Rules for freezing and/or fumigating are as described for other sites in the Monument (see above).

3. Clothing, footwear (shoes, slippers, socks, etc.), daypacks (soft gear) must be new, unused, or previously only used on Nihoa (or Necker) and carefully sealed and stored while off of the island. Hard gear such as camera, and equipment must be thoroughly cleaned and inspected.

Additional Special Conditions for Travel within Pearl and Hermes Atoll:

In recent years Verbesina encelioides has been introduced to Southeast Island within Pearl and Hermes Atoll. This noxious weed has taken over a large portion of the island. To prevent the further spread of this weed to the other islets within this atoll the following precaution must be taken:

1. Every person should have one set of quarantine gear and clothing for Southeast Island and one set of quarantine gear and clothing for all other islets in the atoll. For instance, the same clothing, and if needed camping gear, may be used at north and seal Kittery, but anything used at southeast needs to stay off all other islets in the atoll. Do not use the outer islet clothing and gear on Southeast Island.

2. Carefully inspect small boats and their associated equipment when traveling between islets at Pearl and Hermes Atoll. Since folks likely take one anchor ashore and put one anchor in the water there is potential for seed dispersal on anchor lines as well as from within the small boats. This needs to be watched very carefully.

Additional Special Conditions for Food:

Fresh foods such as fruits, vegetables, leafy vegetables and tubers are not permitted on quarantine enforced islands (Necker, Nihoa, Laysan, Garner Pinnacles, Lisianski and Pearl and Hermes Reef). Concern is not only that certain species such as tomatoes could easily become established but that decomposing organic waste can also harbor microbes and insects and can act as an introduction vector. Soil can contain many seeds, eggs, larvae, etc., and cannot be transported to or between islands.

All other food that can be safely frozen (this does not apply to food in cans or glass jars) must be packaged in air tight containers just as all other gear and frozen for 48 hours.

June 2007

PMNM BMP #009

BEST PRACTICES FOR MINIMIZING THE IMPACT OF ARTIFICIAL LIGHT ON SEA TURTLES

NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA Fisheries) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are jointly responsible for the protection of threatened and endangered sea turtles. In Hawai‘i, the agencies are especially concerned about the impact of shoreline activities on the successful nesting and basking of green and hawksbill sea turtles.

Over 90 percent of nesting activity for the Hawaiian population of the threatened green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) occurs at French Frigate Shoals in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands (NWHI). Green turtles nest from May through September, peaking in June and July. Hatchlings continue to emerge from nests through November. Large numbers of green turtles are also known to bask throughout the NWHI. The endangered hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) also nests in Hawai‘i, with over 90 percent of documented nests occurring on the Island of Hawai‘i. Regular nesting also occurs on Maui and Moloka‘i. Hawksbills appear to nest and forage primarily within the main Hawaiian Islands, though they have been sighted in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands.

Many factors affect the potential survival of these turtles, including the loss or destruction of nesting and basking beaches, and other human shoreline activities such as the use of artificial lights. The following set of measures should be adopted as appropriate, to minimize the impacts of lighting on sea turtles:

A. Avoid the use of artificial lighting near beaches, where possible, particularly during nesting and hatching seasons.

Artificial light sources on a nesting beach may deter adult females from exiting the water to lay eggs on the beach, cause abandonment of nesting attempts, or disorient adult females and disrupt their natural behavior of returning to the sea after nesting. Artificial light will disorient hatchlings that use light cues to find their way to the sea, making them more vulnerable to predation, exhaustion, and desiccation.

Artificial light may also disturb basking turtles.

B. Do not use excessive or unnecessary amounts of light, or leave lights on or allow campfires to burn longer than necessary.

Basking behavior may help turtles avoid marine predators. If artificial lighting causes a basking turtle to return to the sea, it may be more vulnerable to predation.

C. Shield or redirect lights to reduce as much as possible the amount of light that can be seen from the nesting or basking beach.

Effective light shields should be completely opaque, sufficiently large, and positioned so that light from the shielded source does not reach the beach.

D. Where possible, use low-intensity light sources that emit long wavelength light (yellow, red) and avoid sources that emit short wavelengths (ultraviolet, blue, green, white).

Long wavelengths are the least disturbing to sea turtles. Red light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are the best option and one of the light sources least disruptive to sea turtles. Amber or yellow filters placed on light sources are less desirable than red lighting, as they vary in effectiveness and will fade over time.

E. Aboard vessels at sea, use the minimum lighting necessary to comply with navigation rules and best safety practices.

Sea turtles of all life stages may be attracted to lights from vessels at sea. These turtles may be vulnerable to vessel activities, as well as being vulnerable to predators that may also be attracted to the same lights.

PMNM BMP #010

Last Revised: 2015 January

Guidelines1:

Marine Wildlife Viewing Guidelines

Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument promotes Responsible Marine Wildlife Viewing and offers the following guidelines. These guidelines do not replace Federal or state law. Pursuit and feeding of marine mammals are prohibited by Federal law.

1. Remain at least 100 yards (300 feet / 92 meters) from all Hawaiian monk seal mom-pup pairs and humpback whales.

2. Remain at least 50 yards (150 feet / 46 meters) from other marine mammals (dolphins, other whale species, and adult Hawaiian monk seals).

3. Observe turtles from a distance.

4. Bring binoculars along on viewing excursions to assure a good view from the recommended viewing distances.

5. Do not attempt to touch, ride, or feed turtles.

6. Limit your time observing an animal to 1/2 hour.

7. Marine mammals and sea turtles should not be encircled or trapped between boats or shore.

8. If approached by a marine mammal or turtle while on a boat, put the engine in neutral and allow the animal to pass. Boat movement should be from the rear of the animal.

Background:

The marine wildlife viewing guidelines are intended to help you enjoy watching marine wildlife without causing them harm or placing personal safety at risk.

Before you visit a wildlife location, read about the wildlife, viewing sites and local regulations to get the most from your wildlife viewing experience. Many species live only in specific habitats such as estuaries, coral reefs, sand dunes or the open ocean. Seasonal and daily cycles also influence when and where an animal may be located.

Keep your distance from wildlife by using binoculars, spotting scopes and cameras with zoom lenses to get a closer look. Marine wildlife may be very sensitive to human disturbance, and if cornered, they can harm the viewer or leave the area. If wildlife approaches you, stay calm and slowly back away or place boat engines in neutral. When closer encounters occur, do not make sudden moves or obstruct the travel path of the animals - let them have the unhindered "right of way."

Stay away from wildlife that appears abandoned or sick. Some marine animals such as seals leave the water or are exposed at low tide as part of their natural life cycle -- there may be nothing wrong with them. Young animals that appear to be orphaned may

1 These guidelines are taken from NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service website: http://www.fpir.noaa.gov/PRD/prd_laws_policies_guidelines1.html actually be under the watchful eye of a nearby parent. An animal that is sick or injured is already vulnerable and may be more likely to bite. If you think an animal is in trouble, do not attempt to approach or assist the animal and contact the local authorities for advice.

Never touch, handle or ride marine wildlife. Touching wildlife, or attempting to do so, can injure the animal, put you at risk and may also be illegal for certain species. The slimy coating on fish and many marine invertebrates protects the animal from infection and is easily rubbed off with a hand, glove or foot. Avoid using gloves when diving or snorkeling to minimize the temptation to touch. Remember, wild animals may bite, body slam or even pull you underwater if startled or threatened.

Do not feed or attract marine wildlife. Feeding or attempting to attract wildlife with food, decoys, sound or light disrupts normal feeding cycles, may cause sickness or death from unnatural or contaminated food items, and habituates animals to people. Habituated animals are vulnerable to vessel strikes or vandalism, and can be dangerous to people.

Never chase or harass wildlife. Following a wild animal that is trying to escape is dangerous. Never completely surround the animal, trap an animal between a vessel and shore, block its escape route, or come between mother and young. When viewing from a boat, operate at slow speed, move parallel to the swimming animals, and avoid approaching head-on or from behind, and separating individuals from a group. If you are operating a non-motorized vessel, emit periodic noise to make wildlife aware of your presence and avoid surprise.

Help others to become responsible wildlife watchers. Speak up if you notice other viewers behaving in a way that disturbs the wildlife or other viewers, or impacts sensitive habitats. Be friendly, respectful and discrete when approaching others. When operating a boat, led by example and reduce your speed in areas frequented by marine wildlife, anchor properly and encourage others to do the same. Violations of the law should be reported to local authorities.

Information on reporting an injured, stranded (beached), entangled whale, or dead or dolphin:

Please call:

Marine Mammal Health & Response Program Manager David Schofield at 808 721-5343 (available 24/7)

Information on reporting injured, entangled, or dead Hawaiian Monk Seal: Please call: HMSRP veterinarian Michelle Barbieri (443) 834-8612 (available 24/7) Information on reporting stranded, entangled, or injured sea turtles:

Please call: Oahu Sea Turtle Stranding Telephone: (808) 725-5730 (available 7am – 4pm M-F), or visit the NOAA Fisheries website for all call-in information by island at http://www.pifsc.noaa.gov/marine_turtle/strandings.php

DISEASE AND INTRODUCED SPECIES PREVENTION PROTOCOL FOR PERMITTED ACTIVITIES IN THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (Revised July 9, 2018)

Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (Monument) was established to conserve and protect the unique biota of the islands, atolls, reefs and waters in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands (NWHI). Endemic flora and fauna are especially vulnerable to the introduction of alien and/or invasive species, and the spread of disease. The introduction of disease and alien species may contribute to the extinction of native species and the destruction of ecosystems. The following protocols have been developed to protect these fragile resources.

Definitions:

Clothing: all apparel, hats, socks, over and under garments

Disinfected: the item has been (1) rinsed and is 100% free of encrusted mud, dirt, and sand, (2) closely inspected for seeds and insects, (3) soaked or wiped with an appropriate disinfecting solution as outlined below, and (4) rinsed if directed

Dive Gear: all gear such as wetsuit, booties, gloves, mask, snorkel, fins, regulator, buoyancy compensation device, tanks, weight belt, and dive flag

Equipment: includes gloves, chisels, forceps, drill bits, shears, clippers, spear tips, nets, chain, clipboards, slates, mesh gear bags; includes research equipment that may contact the benthos such as reels, tape measures, transect lines, etc.

Footwear: anything worn on the foot that contacts the substrate. Once you stand up a dive booty is considered footwear (footwear with spikes are prohibited)

Hard Gear: all gear taken to the intertidal zone made of a hard and non-porous surface such as plastic, glass, or metal and can be cleaned using a cloth type material or by soaking

Intertidal Zone: the area of substrate emergent during low tide and fully submerged during high tide, extending upwards from the mean low low-tide mark to the top of the splash zone during winter months (areas that are impacted by wave action, not including tsunamis)

New: off the shelf and never used

Non-Sensitive Equipment/Gear: equipment and gear that will not be damaged by freezing or submerging in water

“One-Island” Dedicated Gear: items that are purchased new, and have ONLY ever been used on a specific island, and nowhere else. When it is not being used on the specific island, gear should be quarantined and stored separated from all other gear

QACs: quaternary ammonium compounds; chemical group belonging to the surfactants, which possess both a cleaning and disinfecting effect. QACs spectrum of activity is limited to vegetative bacteria and enveloped, lipophilic viruses (incl. HIV); an example of an acceptable QAC solution is Lysol® All Purpose Cleaner at manufacturer’s recommended dilution source:

(http://www.bode- science-center.com/center/glossary/quaternary-ammonium-compounds.html)

Quarantine Enforced Islands: all islands excluding Midway Atoll

Sensitive Equipment/Gear: computers, optical equipment, GPS, cameras, and other sensitive equipment that would be damaged by freezing or submerging in water

Soft Gear: all gear taken to the intertidal zone such as, daypacks, fanny-packs, camera bags, camera/binocular straps, microphone covers

Transition Zone: the area of land between the intertidal zone and the terrestrial zone identified by presence of vascular terrestrial plants, soil etc.

General disinfection procedures

· Disinfect all equipment and gear at least daily if used.

· Only disinfected equipment and gear may be transported either direction between the Monument and the main Hawaiian Islands or other point of origin/destination.

· Dispose of organic matter, used disinfection solution, and rinse according to the ship's solid waste disposal or other approved secure holding system.

· Acceptable Disinfection Solutions:

1. Levels One, Two, Three and Four (levels defined below): a 1 :32 dilution of commercial bleach in freshwater (1/2 cup bleach per gallon of freshwater), yielding a 1000 ppm dilution of sodium hypochlorite, or 3% free chlorine solution; and

2. Levels Two, Three and Four: the manufacturer's recommended disinfection strength dilution of QACs.

· Rinse after disinfection: All gear in close proximity to the face or skin, e.g. masks, regulators, gloves, should be rinsed with potable water following disinfection.

A. Equipment and Dive Gear Disinfection

Equipment and gear are treated according to four levels that correspond to the potential for the spread of disease and/or introduced species.

General points applicable to all the levels and acceptable disinfection solutions are listed above.

I. Level One: Equipment in direct contact with diseased coral tissue or other diseased organisms.

· Require multiple sets of equipment: Use a disinfected set of equipment for diseased organisms and another disinfected set of equipment for non-diseased organisms at each dive site.

· Disinfect all equipment between uses: Use a disinfected set of equipment at each dive site.

· Approved disinfection method:

1) Remove any organic matter from the equipment;

2) Soak equipment for a minimum of ten minutes in a 1:32 dilution of commercial bleach in freshwater (1/2 cup bleach per gallon of freshwater), yielding a 1000 ppm dilution of sodium hypochlorite, or 3% free chlorine solution.

· Secure all samples: Seal all samples in bags or jars under water and place sample bags and jars in secure holding container.

II. Level Two: Equipment not used to sample diseased coral tissue or other diseased organisms

· Disinfect all equipment between sites: Use a disinfected set of equipment at each dive site.

· Approved disinfection method: 1) Remove any organic matter from the equipment. 2) Soak and or wipe equipment as specified for equipment type, below. See list of acceptable disinfection solutions above.

1. Non-porous equipment must be wiped or soaked. If wiping, use wipes in which the active ingredient is a quaternary ammonium compound (QAC). Acceptable wipes include Clorox® wipes or Lysol® wipes. If soaking, soak for a minimum of ten minutes in an acceptable disinfectant solution.

2. Porous equipment…