The Hawaiʻi Forest Reserve System is open for expansion, with two new parcels containing 7,200 acres being proposed for addition to state forest lands on Hawaiʻi Island.

The DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) is inviting the public to comment on the proposed additions at a community hearing in Hilo on March 28.  Detailed meeting info can be found below:

 DOFAW Hilo Office Conference Room

19 E. Kawili Street, Hilo

Thursday, March 28, 2024

5:30 p.m.

 

DOFAW manages the Forest Reserve System to provide a variety of benefits including recreational and hunting opportunities, watershed restoration, cultural resource preservation, and habitat protection for threatened and endangered native species.

The first proposed addition, 162 acres in north Hawaiʻi adjacent to the Manowaialeʻe and Hilo Forest Reserves, includes a koa seed bank with potential for restoration. The property location also enables public access and opportunity for reforestation activities.

The second addition is located in southwest Hawaiʻi, currently leased for pasture purposes. The proposed action will subdivide the parcel adding approximately 7,042 acres covered by intact native koa and ʻōhiʻa forest to the Kapāpala Forest Reserve. The remaining 15,684 acres of the lease will be set aside to the Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture.

Testimony can be provided online or in-person at the community hearing, and by mail or email. To attend online, contact forestry staff at forestry@hawaii.gov or call 808-587-4166. To attend online, contact at forestry@hawaii.gov or call 808-587-4166. To attend online, please contact forestry@hawaii.gov at least 24 hours before the hearing to receive a Zoom link.

Persons unable to attend or wishing to present additional comments can email to the address listed above or mail written testimony, postmarked no later than April 5, 2024, to Division of Forestry and Wildlife, Attn: Forestry Program Manager, 1151 Punchbowl St., #325, Honolulu, HI 96813. 

 

DLNR Photo