Kona chosen as one of NOAA's Sentinel Sites in Hawai'i

Kona has been chosen as one of NOAA's Sentinel Sites in Hawai'i, complementing other Hawaii Sentinel Site locations chosen at Midway, French Frigate Shoals, and He'eia. NOAA has chosen these sites in Hawaii based on their unique blend of characteristics: dynamic physical setting, ecologically diverse environment, and rich culture of historical significance.

The Sentinel Site Program is an effort led by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to coordinate existing assets, programs, and resources to confront climate-related impacts. These efforts will be conducted at specific sites by employing a place-based, issue-driven approach.

This NOAA program will work in conjunction with existing, overarching programs including the ongoing Integrated Ecosystem Assessment in Kona. Initially, the Sentinel Site Program in Kona will work with scientists, managers, and community members to address a variety of issues concerning sea level change and its potential impacts on the Kona Coast.

For more information on the Kona Sentinel Site contact Evan.Howell@noaa.gov. For more information on the Sentinel Site Program in Hawai'i contact Douglas.Harper@noaa.gov.