Input invited on management of Puaʻahala section of Molokaʻi State Forest Reserve

The Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife is seeking input on a draft management plan for the Puaʻahala Section of the Molokaʻi State Forest Reserve. The plan will guide management priorities for this area over the next 10 years.

The current plan contains a brief history of the area, a complete record of boundary changes over time, a description of natural and cultural resources, as well as an account of infrastructure, intended uses and management of the area. 

Stewardship of this area, located on the southeast slopes of the island of Molokaʻi, focuses on protecting the watershed, native ecosystems, threatened and endangered species, cultural resources and management of public access.  

In addition to producing the draft plan, DLNR DOFAW has developed an online platform to engage people in learning about the Puaʻahala Section of the Molokaʻi State Forest Reserve and contributing to the planning process. Using the State’s digital mapping system as a foundation, users can explore engaging, virtual information guides that describe the history, natural resources, threats, public uses and proposed management priorities of Puaʻahala. Users can also participate in an online community survey and find information on how to submit comments that will be included as part of the planning process.

Written comments for the plan must be submitted electronically or postmarked no later than Friday, Oct. 16, 2026:

• By email to forestry@hawaii.gov
• Online at:
  • DLNR DOFAW’s Digital Public Engagement Platform: https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/2ff7557213b74362a8d367d4cd077a49
  • and share Your Voice: Give Input on Plans, Policies, & Meetings: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dofaw/comment/
• By mail to: 
  Department of Land and Natural Resources
  Division of Forestry and Wildlife 
  1151 Punchbowl Street, Room 325 
  Honolulu, HI 96813