Hawaii launches new program training hotel staff to educate guests about monk seals and sea turtles before beach visits, following incident where visitor threw rock at endangered seal in Lahaina.
- Hawaii Marine Animal Response created Marine Stewards Program for hotel staff, concierges, and tour operators to educate visitors about wildlife safety.
- Program launched after Washington visitor was federally charged for throwing rock at endangered monk seal off Lahaina in May.
- Hotel staff will explain safe distances and answer questions about protected wildlife but have no enforcement authority.
- Research suggests wildlife education is most effective when delivered at moment of animal encounter, not days earlier at check-in.
- Program represents shift from relying solely on beach signage to proactive visitor education through hospitality workers.
Source: Beatofhawaii
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