The Department of Land and Natural Resources' Division of Aquatic Resources on Maui has purchased a Yamaha Waverunner to assist with a new near-shore resources monitoring program.

The craft will be used in shallow water to conduct fish surveys in North Kihei, Makena, Olowalu, North Ka'anapali, Honokowai, Kahana, Waihe'e, Waiehu, Kahului and Pa'ia. Surveys have begun at the 10 sites and will be conducted four times a year.

Officials said the Wave-runner, which will be clearly marked "DLNR Research," will allow two-person snorkel teams to access nearshore areas where larger vessels can't operate.