Ukumehame Rifle Range Closed Due to Nēnē Nest

Nēnē nest, photo courtesy of DLNR.

By Maui Now Staff

The Maui County Department of Parks and Recreation closed its Ukumehame rifle range because of a nēnē nest in the area.

The nēnē goose is protected by the state and federal law as an endangered species.

The nēnē was spotted wandering around the rifle range on Sunday, Jan. 4, 2015, by a firearms instructor, who then notified the state Department of Land and Natural Resources.

On Monday, Jan. 5, a DLNR wildlife biologist confirmed that there is a nēnē and a nest located on the right side of the rifle range, up against the berm.

Upon DLNR’s recommendation, the county closed the rifle range while the nēnē continues to lay eggs.

Although the rifle range is closed, the pistol range, clay target range and the classrooms will remain open. DLNR officials say it will be about a month-and-a-half before the eggs hatch and the nēnē family can leave the area or be relocated. Once that happens, the rifle range can be reopened.

Nēnē. Photo courtesy of DLNR.

Nēnē. Photo courtesy of DLNR.

Nēnē. Photo courtesy of DLNR.