Kula State Forest Reserve Closure Extended

By Wendy Osher

Fallen trees block the Kula Forest Access Road. Photo by Division of Forestry & Wildlife.

The closure of the Kula State Forest Reserve has been extended until at least the end of February, as crews continue storm related cleanup.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) implemented the closure on January 11, 2011 due to hazardous conditions caused by a series of storms.

Crews continue work to remove debris and repair damage caused by rain, strong winds and flooding.

Heavy equipment is being used to fell and chip hazardous trees and repair drainage infrastructure in the forest reserve.

Cement barriers (shown here) were installed following a severe storm in December of 2008. The barriers were washed away on Jan. 10, 2011 during a Flash Flood Warning event on Maui. File Photo from June 2009 by Wendy Osher.

The cement crossing where concrete barrier posts once stood, were washed away in January 2011 during a Flash Flood Warning on Maui. Photo Courtesy Dept. of Forestry & Wildlife.

“We thank the public for their continued patience while our crews are working to clear forest areas and make them safe for the public to use again,” said William J. Aila, Jr., DLNR interim chairperson.

State officials say the Kula Forest Reserve is projected to reopen as soon as the hazardous conditions are addressed and mitigated. Closure signs have been posted at both the white access gate and the Skyline Trailhead.