Proposed Forest Reserve Rules

DLNR News Release

In light of evolving natural resource concerns and the needs of managers and people, the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) is proposing updates to rules regulating activities within Hawaii’s Forest Reserve System.  DOFAW is now inviting input and comments. 

The Forest Reserve System consists of 55 reserves across the state covering approximately 678,000 acres.  Regulations for the system were first established in 1943 and the last comprehensive update was in 1993. Proposed changes and updates will allow DLNR to streamline and clarify existing rules, improve enforceability, and update allowed uses and activities based on conditions currently facing the forests and their users.

DLNR is offering many ways to engage in the process, including statewide public hearings, a website, and a downloadable guide. Information about the proposed changes to Chapter 13-104, Hawaii Administrative Rules, and the rule change process is available online.  People can review the official proposed rule change document, view affected areas, and submit comments or questions. A user-friendly guide that explains proposed changes and how to participate is also available for download.

Information hearings will be held across the state in April. Each begins with an informational session starting at 4:30 p.m. DOFAW staff will be available to answer questions at stations organized by topic of interest, followed by hearings to present the proposed rule change and accept testimony.

Molokai’s public hearing will be held on Thursday, April 26 at Mitchell Pauole Center, with the informational session from 4:30 to 8 p.m., and the public hearing from 6 to 8 p.m.

You are invited to attend the hearing and to present relevant information and opinions for DLNR’s consideration, either orally or in writing. Anyone unable to attend or wanting to provide additional comments can submit written testimony postmarked no later than Friday, May 11:

1)    By email to forestry@hawaii.gov

2)    Online at dlnr.hawaii.gov/forestry/frs/rulechange/

3)    By mail to the Forestry Program Manager at 1151 Punchbowl Street, Room 325, Honolulu, HI 96813

A copy of the proposed forest reserve rule changes will be mailed, by written request to the Forestry Program Manager, 1151 Punchbowl Street, Room 325, Honolulu, HI 96813.

Anyone requesting an auxiliary aid or service (i.e. large print materials, sign language interpreters) is asked to submit their request to the Forestry Program Manager, 1151 Punchbowl Street, Room 325, Honolulu, HI 96813, or through the Telecommunication Relay Service at 711 by April 11.