Recruitment

NOAA’s Papahānaumokuākea National Marine Sanctuary is seeking applicants for eight primary and five alternate seats on its advisory council. The council ensures public participation in sanctuary management and provides advice to the superintendent.

Papahānaumokuākea National Marine Sanctuary is currently accepting applications for the following seats:

• Citizen-At-Large (Primary)
• Conservation (Primary and Alternate)
• Native Hawaiian Elder (Primary)
• Native Hawaiian (Primary)
• Ocean Related Tourism (Primary)
• Recreational Fishing (Primary and Alternate)
• Research (Primary and Alternate)

Completed applications are due by December 18, 2026 at 5 p.m. HST.

"Having community representatives who are fully engaged in our advisory council process is an essential part of the overall success of our team," said Eric Roberts, NOAA's superintendent for Papahānaumokuākea National Marine Sanctuary. "Their input is an integral part of protecting this special place."

Originally established in 2000 as the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Coral Reef Ecosystem Reserve Advisory Council, the Papahānaumokuākea National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council provides advice and recommendations on managing and protecting the sanctuary, inclusive of the reserve. Serving in a volunteer capacity, council members represent a range of local user groups and the general public. Members are appointed to three-year terms and are expected to attend quarterly meetings, held in person or virtually. The council is composed of 15 primary and alternate members representing diverse public interest groups, along with 10 seats for federal and state government agencies.

Completed applications are due by December 18, 2026 at 5 p.m.

For more information, contact:
Sara Wood
(808) 807-2557
sara.wood@noaa.gov

If necessary, applications may also be mailed to:
NOAA IRC
ATTN: Sara Wood / ONMS
1845 Wasp Blvd., Bldg. 176
Honolulu, HI 96818