Illegal tree removal and vandalism discovered in ʻEwa Forest Reserve

DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife staff report that vandals recently chopped down multiple trees in the ʻEwa Forest Reserve above Wahiawā, on Oʻahu.  

At least 10 paperbark Eucalyptus trees were cut, with splintered trunks left standing several feet high. “The vandals also installed a bench, suggesting that the illegal removal of trees was perhaps intended to establish a scenic viewpoint. Ironically, the situation left by the destruction of the trees is anything but picturesque,” DLNR officials said.

While not native to Hawaiʻi, the species was intentionally introduced in the early 1900s to reduce erosion.

“This is not only illegal, it is disrespectful to the ‘āina,” said Ryan Peralta, a forestry program manager with DOFAW’s Oʻahu Branch. “These are public lands that belong to everyone. We’ve never seen anything like this. Chopping down trees and leaving such a mess not only disrupts the forest ecosystem, it creates an eyesore.”

“Forest Reserves are the largest multiuse land areas in the state and provide fresh water, habitat for native species and access to recreational opportunities for residents and visitors,” Peralta added. “Hawaiʻi residents should take pride in their public lands to protect such an invaluable resource.” 

Under Hawaiʻi Administrative Rules Chapter 104, it is illegal to remove, injure or kill plant life in public forest reserves. 

Forest users are urged to report violations to the Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement at 808-643-DLNR (3567) or via the DLNRTip app: