General Use Zone

The General Use Zone is the largest of the four zones, with an area of 26,170 ha, (74.6% of the marine reserve), and is divided between two areas - the majority of the northern part of the atoll, and a smaller portion in the south.

Fishing is permitted in the General Use Zone - however, it is recognized that with the limited natural resources available, priority should be given to fishermen who have traditionally used the area, and a special license system is to be implemented to limit the number of fishermen extracting the natural resources. There are gear restrictions within the General Use Zone, including a ban on the use of fish traps (the term 'fish' being used to include all forms of commercial marine animal), nets and long lines (spear fishing is soon to be prevented under the new revisions to the regulations).

Objectives

To provide opportunities for traditional and sustainable uses and activities to continue under carefully monitored and regulated conditions. These include mainly commercial fishing for lobster, conch and finfish.
To provide a study area for close monitoring of fisheries catch in order to demonstrate the potential benefits of 'no take' areas to fisheries production .

To provide an area for water sports such as diving, snorkeling, sailing, kayaking, and sport fishing.

Use and Entry

Fishing is permitted by fishers who have traditionally used the area and have obtained a special fishing license.
No fishing by long lines, traps, nets or spear guns is allowed (Hawaiin slings are currently permitted).
Fishermen using this zone are expected to submit details of their catch as requested under the Fisheries Regulations.