The State Department of Land and Natural Resources will hold an informal public meeting from 2 p.m.to 3 p.m. Thursday at the Mitchell Pauole Community Center conference room on Molokai to hear from community members regarding the use of personal watercraft around Moloka'i.

"We understand a petition is being circulated on Moloka'i to demonstrate public support for legalizing jet ski riding," said Thielen. "The purpose of this public meeting is to hear directly from residents regarding concerns or questions they might have about the use of jet skis in Moloka'i waters."

Residents can also provide comments in writing to the Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation, or at subsequent meetings.

Commercial or recreational use of controlled ocean sports equipment, such as Jet Skis, is currently prohibited around the islands of Moloka'i and Lana'i.

A similar public meeting will be planned for Lana'i in the near future.