Help prevent water pollution by cutting down on your own use of herbicides, fertilizers, pesticides and cleaning products. Don't pour these down the drain.

Dispose of your rubbish properly. Don’t leave unwanted lines or nets in the water or on the beach. Any kind of litter pollutes the water and can harm the reef and the fish.

Take only the fish you will eat that day. Leave tomorrow’s catch in the water. Fishing pressure is one of the most serious threats to Hawaii’s coral reef ecosystem and our island lifestyle.

Never release aquarium or non-native plants or animals into Hawaii’s waters. They can become vicious predators and/or carry disease that can kill Hawaii’s reefs and fish.

Stay off the reef when swimming, snorkeling and diving. One touch can harm it. More can kill it.

Anchoring on the reef can kill it! Look for sandy bottom or use moorings if available.

Leave marine life alone. Enjoy nature but don't touch or chase animals as many are protected by law.

Support reef-friendly businesses. Ask the fishing, boating, hotel, aquarium, dive or snorkeling operators how they protect the reef. Be sure they care for the living reef ecosystem.

Be an informed consumer. Ask how the fish and coral were collected, and if the organization responsible is part of a coral reef ecosystem management effort.

Help reduce pollution by leaving your car at home. Walk, bike or ride the bus.

Volunteer for or organize reef and beach cleanups and monitoring programs.

Encourage others to share your concern. Teach them how to protect the reef.

Help enforce the rules. Help others understand the things they should and should not do.

Get involved! Write, email or call your legislators to encourage legislation that protects Hawaii’s coral reef ecosystem. Discourage them from legislation or rules that can harm the reef.

Support the creation and maintenance of marine parks and marine protected areas (MPAs).