It's distressing to see the increase in the number of collisions between ocean vessels and humpback whales.

Researchers say we've had six collisions so far this year, up from four last year. And while that number might seem small, that increase should initiate discussion for speed limits in certain segments of our waters, with the hope of reducing the number of these accidents.

In Hawai'i, we take pride in sharing our ocean waters with ocean animals, and whales are indeed a vital part of that landscape.

That's why it's sad to see the rate of collision is actually increasing faster than the numbers of whales that come into Hawaiian waters.

Jeff Walter, the state manager of the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, is right to suggest that discussions should begin now to create speed zones and other regulations to protect the whales.

Speed limits in the ocean may seem like a hindrance to boaters who claim that speed is necessary to quickly maneuver out of certain situations. Still, ocean officials say that with all the congestion in our waters, speed is dangerous. And if boaters restrict themselves to 15 mph or less, it would promote overall safety and greatly reduce the potential of whale collisions.

At this point, more data are being collected to make sure any regulations on boaters can be justified. That's the right thing to do.

In the meantime, boaters can help with some self-regulation — that includes slowing down and looking out for these animals and others that share our ocean.