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As the federal government shutdown continues, the Mokupapapa Discovery Center and Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park on Hawaii island are leveraging their resources to remain open.
The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, the national nonprofit partner for the National Marine Sanctuary System, is funding the staffing and continuing operations of the discovery center during the shutdown.
The center, located on the Hilo Bayfront, is the interpretive facility for Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument and World Heritage Site. It is free and open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. The Hawaii Pacific Park Association store on-site also remains open.
Government phone access at the center is not available during the shutdown. Calls are being received at 498-4709.
Meanwhile, Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park in Honaunau announced that it would be reopening its visitor center restrooms and resuming trash collection.
National Park Service officials determined that Federal Land and Recreation Enhancement funds could be tapped to fund park maintenance crews and ensure safe conditions, according to a news release. The parking area and most staffed facilities are closed.