#hawaii forest reserve

The Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife has begun a campaign to help hikers, campers, and those engaging with natural resources go about outdoor activities the responsible way.

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 second addition is located in southwest Hawaiʻi, currently leased for pasture purposes.

Kamehamenui is located between Kula Forest Reserve and Haleakalā National Park, and its protection is critical to achieve the overarching goal to restore the “mauna lei”, the band of forest that once encompassed Haleakalā. Restoring this contiguous lei of habitat around the mountain will ensure biological connectivity and restore ecological services.