Hawaii Forest Action Plan: 5-year Review
State of Hawaii
Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of Forestry and Wildlife
November 25, 2015
Issue 1:
Water Quality and Quantity
Issue Addressed: Water Quality & Quantity
Goal: Invasive Species Control
Strategy 1. Control established and incipient invasive species by conducting weed surveys &
creating and implementing prioritized weed management plans for important watersheds
(National Themes: 1 CONSERVE, 2 PROTECT, and 3 ENHANCE)
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DOFAW has been able to increase the acreage surveyed and controlled for invasive
species. One notable increase has been due to higher funding levels for the Hawaii
Invasive Species Council in FY 15 and 16. In FY 15, over 84,000 acres were surveyed
and/or controlled for invasive species.
Additional weed management plans have been created across the state, including the
following areas: Kauai Watershed Alliance, West Maui Mountains Watershed
Partnership, Leeward Haleakala Watershed Restoration Partnership, the Nakula Natural
Area Reserve, Puu Makaala Natural Area Reserve, Ahihi Kinau Natural Area Reserve, Kau
Forest Reserve, Lihue Koloa Forest Reserve, Halelea Forest Reserve, Waihou Spring
Forest Reserve, Waimanalo Forest Reserve, Kealia Moloaa Forest Reserve, Nounou and
Kalepa Forest Reserves.
Strategy 2. Control feral ungulates through fencing, public and staff hunting, trapping and other
approved methods.
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Approximately 127,000 acres of DOFAW lands are now managed at the highest level of
protection from hooved animals and 150,000 acres of Watershed Partnership lands are
protected behind fences for a total linear distance of 467 miles.
DOFAW has revised its game mammal hunting rules (Chapter 123, Hawaii Administrative
Rules), which on average increases public hunting opportunities in non-fenced areas.
DOFAW continues to monitor progress of animal control work. For instance, on the
north shore of Molokai, surveys indicate that after 7 years of control work, the goat
population has been reduced by 65%.
Goal: Outreach & Education
Strategy 1. Increase public involvement in watershed management through outreach education
and volunteer programs for children and adults that integrate science with Hawaii’s unique
cultural traditions.
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DOFAW’s ambitious public outreach included a 30-minute prime-time television
segment, over 75 meetings and presentations across the State, multiple Public Service
Announcements, professional polling on public attitudes, websites, news conferences,
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social media, workshops, and press releases aimed at educating the public about the
importance of watershed forests.
DOFAW continues to lead a “Project Learning Tree” program to train educators in how
to teach environmental concepts in their curriculum.
The Youth Conservation Corps program involves over a hundred youth in paid
internships to conduct watershed management as well as other natural resource tasks.
In FY15, over 65,000 hours of service were provided. Additionally, the public provided
over 17,000 hours of volunteer service, primarily for watershed protection projects.
Strategy 2. Build public support, create sustainable funding, and develop new policies and laws
supporting water quality and quantity.
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DLNR has communicated to Legislators and the public that watershed protection is the
top priority issue for the agency. Additionally, a watershed plan was developed
identifying potential funding sources and budgets and action items. This has led to an
additional $16.5 million for watershed protection (over normal base funding) to
accelerate protection of watershed forests.
Capital Improvement Project (CIP) funding has become a major new funding source for
watershed protection and helps to fund fencing and outplanting projects.
Recently, the Natural Resources Conservation Service has increased its funding for
Hawaii’s watershed protection with the new Regional Conservation Partnership
Program, as well as the Joint Chief’s grant.
A 2015 report by the Hawaii Community Foundation titled “A Blueprint for Action:
Water Security for an Uncertain Future” outlines a set of solutions to put Hawaii on a
path toward water security. Included in the list of recommendations is the
establishment of a Water Security Fund and a push to get the county water
departments to provide funding for watershed protection on their islands. The report
calls for dedicated, long-term, core funding for expanding protected areas and
supporting the work of the Watershed Partnerships. This is part of the 2013 Hawaii
Fresh Water Initiative.
Strategy 3. Raise the capacity of Watershed Partnerships to share watershed management
expertise.
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The Hawaii Association of Watershed Partnerships put on yearly symposiums,
workshops, and retreats to share management expertise. The Watershed Partnerships
have also presented in the annual Hawaii Conservation Conference and do work
exchanges so staff from the different partnerships can get gain new skill sets and
experience.
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Hawaii was selected as the site for the 2016 World Conservation Congress of the
International Union for the Conservation of Nature. This provides a once-in-a-lifetime
opportunity to share Hawaii’s conservation achievements. Hawaii’s unique watershed
partnership model will be highlighted.
Goal: Improve coastal watersheds
Strategy 1. Protect surface water for economic, ecologic, cultural and aesthetic purposes.
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Results of watershed management have significantly improved coastal watersheds. For
instance, the United States Geological Survey has estimated that DOFAW’s management
of watersheds in the South Slope of Molokai has reduced erosion by ten-fold, within a
span of just 5 years. This is significantly reducing sediment deposited in streams
fishponds, beaches, and coral reefs. Similarly, the Pelekane Bay watershed in South
Kohala, Hawaii, is benefitting from recent large-scale goat control.
The State has created many more water-quality monitoring sites to gage the impact of
forest protection.
Strategy 2. Improve water quality in estuaries, bays and near shore waters.
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See above strategy 1.
Goal: Address key forest health concerns
Strategy 1. Work closely with other programs to address additional key watershed threats such
as fire, diseases, and inappropriate human use.
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DOFAW has partnered in many instances to address watershed threats. One high-profile
example of this is the State’s involvement in the West Maui Ridge to Reef Initiative,
which works across multiple agencies and organizations to address adverse impacts to
coral reefs. This includes seeking to reduce impacts to the watersheds from developed
urban areas.
DOFAW partners with other governmental agencies, as well as other organizations such
as the Pacific Fire Exchange to plan and implement fire prevention and control
strategies. Fire is an increasing problem in Hawaii, and Hawaii is on par with the
Western states for percentage of land area burned. Additional funding for fire
equipment and infrastructure is needed.
DOFAW’s forest health program works with watershed partnerships on pest monitoring
and biological control releases.
Strategy 2. Restoration of native species in priority watershed forests and eroded areas.
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DOFAW has funded very large scale restoration projects, including planting over 81,000
trees and shrubs in FY15 alone.
In most prioritized watersheds DOFAW has reduced or removed hooved animals, large
scale passive restoration has occurred. For instance, the United States Geological Survey
has reported that an area in the South Slope of Molokai that was completed eroded and
barren, became 75% vegetated in just 5 years due to DOFAW’s management.
Watershed Partnership Program Grant funding has been allocated on an annual basis to
support the work of the Leeward Haleakala Watershed Restoration Partnership, which
focuses on regional-scale restoration, outplanting, and control of incipient invasive
species populations that threaten restoration potential of leeward Haleakala’s native
forests.
Issue 2:
Forest Health: Invasive Species, Insects &
Disease
Issue Addressed: Forest Health: Invasive Species, Insects & Diseases
Goal: Suppression of invasive species
Strategy 1. Prevent harm from new invasive species by improving biosecurity. (National
Themes: 1 CONSERVE, 2 PROTECT, and 3 ENHANCE)
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DOFAW filed a NAPRA petition for Myrtaceae species with USDA APHIS to complement
a state import restriction on live Myrtaceae plant material to prevent additional strains
of Puccinia psidii from entering the state. Both state and federal import restrictions are
in process.
DOFAW requested assistance from US Forest Service to conduct forest pest pathway risk
assessments for 13 of the most important native Hawaiian forest species. The PRA
document is currently in publication.
The Coordinating Group of Alien Pest Species (CGAPS) developed a new strategic plan
for 2015-19 for improving biosecurity with assistance from the University of Hawaii. The
plan can be viewed at http://www.cgaps.org/wp-content/uploads/CGAPS-StrategicPlan-2015-to-2019.pdf
CGAPS also worked closely with the landscape industry to prevent new pest plants from
being adapted by the industry. The website www.PlantPono.org provides information
from the Hawaii Pacific Weed Risk Assessment to industry and the public for making
informed decisions on planting choices. Some nurseries have voluntarily adopted BMP’s
developed by CGAPS and invasive species committees for minimizing invasive species
introductions.
Strategy 2. Establish early detection networks and support island-wide eradication and
containment of incipient species. (National Themes: 1 CONSERVE, 2 PROTECT, and 3 ENHANCE)
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The coconut rhinoceros beetle was detected in traps new Honolulu International
Airports. Eradication efforts by HDOA and USDA are underway on the island of Oahu.
Comprehensive early detection surveys of invasive plants were conducted along
roadsides, in botanical gardens and nurseries, and other high-risk areas on each of the
main islands.
Early detection and rapid response plans for Myoporum thrips (Klambothrips myopori)
were developed for main islands where this pest of native naio is not yet established.
Strategy 3. Restore areas where invasive plants, insects, and disease have harmed forests.
(National Themes: 1 CONSERVE, 2 PROTECT, and 3 ENHANCE)
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Koa families from all of the main islands were screened for resistance to Fusarium
oxysporum, or koa wilt disease. Resistant families were out-planted into seed orchards
on DLNR lands on each island to provide a seed source for future commercial and
restoration plantings.
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The native wiliwili tree (Erythrina sandwidensis) which grows in Hawaii’s rare dry forests
ecosystems was recently threatened by the invasive Erythrina gall wasps. Trees
statewide were infested and killed at rates of 30% and higher. Hawaii Department of
Agriculture released a predator wasp in 2011 that has allowed trees to recover, and in
some places to reproduce. Post-release monitoring has revealed continued infestation
of flowers and pods limiting seed set. Release of an additional biocontrol agent is now
being planned. Wiliwili is now being planted as a restoration species.
Strategy 4. Develop new tools to increase effectiveness of invasive plant, insect, and disease
management, including biological control. (National Themes: 1 CONSERVE, 2 PROTECT, and 3
ENHANCE)
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The University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, working
closely with DOFAW, invasive species committees and other invasive plant management
groups developed a new pesticide delivery technique called Herbicide Ballistic
Technology (HBT). The HBT application method allows managers to control invasive
plants if remove areas that are difficult to access. The technology has been successfully
adapted by several programs such as Maui Invasive Species Committee and the Kauai
Watershed Alliance.
In cooperation with US Forest Service and Hawaii Department of Agriculture, a biological
control for one of Hawaii’s worst invasive species, strawberry guava was released. The
gall-forming scale, Tectococcus ovatus, is now established on Hawaii, Maui, and Oahu
with plans for release on Kauai in the next year.
Search for agents to control other priority pests such as hala scale, albizia, Himalayan
ginger, and Rubus spp. was also conducted.
Goal: Outreach and Education
Strategy 1. Increase public support and involvement in invasive species prevention and control.
(National Themes: 1 CONSERVE, 2 PROTECT, and 3 ENHANCE)
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The Hawaii Invasive Species Council instituted the Hawaii Invasive Species Week with a
proclamation from the governor. This annual event includes awards to citizens,
businesses, and agencies as well as invasive species related activities.
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The CGAPS coordinator, Christy Martin, continues to be the ‘face of invasive species’ in
Hawaii and was recently awarded outstanding achievement in outreach and education
on invasive species from the National Invasive Species Council.
Outreach and education has been built into all major invasive species projects.
Strategy 2. Monitor invasive plants and damage or mortality caused by forests pests for trends
to inform management activities. (National Themes: 1 CONSERVE, 2 PROTECT, and 3 ENHANCE)
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Monitoring was conducted for ohia rust (Puccinia psidii) to determine the impact of this
recently arrived disease on ohia forests, especially regeneration. During monitoring
activities, a new disease killing ohia was discovered.
Information from monitoring of wiliwilili trees is being used to plan the release of a
second biocontrol.
Monitoring of damage to naio (Myoporum sandwicensis) was conducted, as well as
efforts to find resistance to this pest.
Strategy 3. Work with other programs ensuring integrative approaches to management of
invasive species. (National Themes: 1 CONSERVE, 2 PROTECT, and 3 ENHANCE)
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The forest health program worked with the forestry section in coordinating with Purdue
University’s Tropical Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center
(TropHTIRC) to improve koa forestry in the state. The partnership has been challenged
by the lack of local coordination and leadership.
Forest health worked closely with the forestry section in developing a Koa Action Plan
for koa forestry in the state. The plan is in the process of being finalized and will be
published as an appendix to the state’s Forest Action Plant.
The Forest Heath program worked with the Waikaloa Dry Forest Initiative in monitoring
and releasing biocontrol agents to protect their wiliwili forest restoration project. This
Forest Stewardship project of approximately 275 acres which has fenced out invasive
goats is seeing wiliwili recruitment and is successfully out-planting additional wiliwili.
Issue 3:
Wildfire
Issue 3: Wildfire
Strategy 1: Reduce the impact of wildfires on native ecosystems and watersheds. (National
Themes: 1 CONSERVE, 2 PROTECT, and 3 ENHANCE)
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Responded to and controlled wildfires in agency response zone protecting 1,680,826
acres.
Worked closely with county fire departments and federal partners on training and fire
response.
During the 2015 Hawaii Legislative Session DOFAW was allocated $1,500,000 to upgrade
heavy equipment used to suppress and reduce wildfires. This equipment will also be
used during the next decade throughout the State to manage forest road systems,
create fire buffers and reduce fuel loads.
DOFAW has received some aerial mapping training specifically designed to enable
identification of land-based resource needs such as high fuel loads and insect and
pathogen outbreaks. This technology will be used to target future management area
that will need dedicated funding to mitigate the potential long-term impacts.
Strategy 2: Reduce the impacts of wildfires on communities and threatened rare habitats near
them. Educate teachers, students, and other community members on wildfire concepts.
(National Themes: 2 PROTECT, and 3 ENHANCE)
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Hawaii has 13 Community Wildfire Protection Plans that are either completed, being
updated, or in development.
Wildfire awareness messaging incorporated into the Division’s outreach program and
school visits by Smokey occurred regularly.
Conducted annual wildfire awareness day on Oahu where the majority of ignitions
occur. Events were coordinated by the Oahu Wildfire Information and Education (OWIE)
working group.
Each DOFAW branch office hired an outreach coordinator to conduct outreach for all
DOFAW programs. Fire prevention is one of the key messaging areas for these
employees.
DOFAW is working with the University of Hawaii at Manoa and the Hawaii Wildfire
Management Organization to develop fact-based outreach materials targeted for Hawaii
Congress members and local decision makers to bolster their knowledge about the
impacts of wildfires and how the state could implement planning to mitigate future
wildfire impacts. This will likely result in future grant applications to implement such an
outreach plan.
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DOFAW has joined the “Hawaii Seed Bank Partnership”, which aims to increase seed
banking across the state. Of particular interest to DOFAW is banking common native
seeds that could be used for immediate post-fire response situations. Additionally,
there is an interest is developing hydro-slurries that could be used in rapid post-fire
response scenarios that will reduce soil erosion potential.
Issue 4:
Urban & Community Forestry
Trees are a critical component of our cities and a dynamic resource. Trees improve urban life,
making Hawaii a more enjoyable place to live, work, and play, while mitigating the city’s
environmental impact and trees make a city livable.
This Urban and Community Forestry Forest Action Plan accomplishment report identifies
activities since the plan was created by 42 participants from across the State and the Pacific on
November 4-5, 2009. At that meeting participants shared insights on key urban forestry issues
and priorities. Their findings contributed to the strategies reflected in the U&CF Action Plan.
While a number of strategies were completed, some fell to the wayside for lack of funds or
level of importance, considering other priorities at the time.
It was often a challenge for a few of the goals such as tree inventories and a tropical urban
forest research center. Momentum to keep the optimism and excitement for these areas faded
as stronger and more achievable goals rose to the surface such as invasive species, the urban
tree canopy assessment, coastal readiness, and urban watershed.
Urban & Community Forestry: Improve Spatial & Vegetative Understanding
 Urban Tree Canopy (UTC) Assessment
 Tree Inventory
 Tropical UC&F Research Center
 Use existing imagery to focus on specific areas of interest
National Themes 1. Conserve working forest landscapes
2. Protect forests from harm
3. Enhance public benefits from trees and forests
Accomplishments  UTC – The first assessment was completed in 2012 covering the
majority of the urban population areas on Oahu. As a tool UTC
provides a useful information on existing and potential opportunities
for tree canopy, and information is hosted for use by the public and
urban planners via the City and County of Honolulu. A second
assessment is underway starting in 2015 with the hopes of analyzing
how the urban forest has changed over the last five years.
 Inventory – Developing a demonstration inventory project utilizing
information from the UTC area coupled with community and
stakeholder engagement. Project to begin in 2015 and be completed
by June 30, 2017.
 Tropical Urban Forest Research Center - A team of urban foresters
prepared the goals, vision, and mission for a center as well as grant
proposals. However, none of the grant proposals was funded and the
group disbanded after repeated attempts to gain financial support.
 Use of existing imagery to examine specific areas of interest – Have
extensively used the UTC Assessment imagery for project
implementation and accomplishment tracking in the study area. The
Strategies
To Complete
Reasons for Not
Completing
Data Gaps
Comments
updated UTC will incorporate new data information and imagery that
has recently become available.
Tropical Urban & Community Forestry Research Center
Research Center – no interest, resources, ability to maintain the push for
additional funding.
Spatially explicit priority issues identified in FAP
 Invasive species-urban/wildland interface/point of entry
 Stream channels running through urban realm
 Urban/coastal impacts
 Historic path of storm events within urban corridor
Without sufficient funds and personnel to continue with the efforts the
Research Center could not be continued, and experts determined this
need could be met through other channels.
Urban and Community Forestry: Climate Change, Coastal Watersheds and Carbon
Sequestration
Long Term Strategy
Strategies
 Mitigate impacts of invasive species from the urban forest on native
ecosystems.
 Coastal Readiness: Use trees as a tool to mitigate the effects of sea
level rise.
National Themes 1. Conserve working forest landscapes
2. Protect forests from harm
3. Enhance public benefits from trees and forests
Accomplishments  Invasive Species - Continue to support of the Hawai`i—Pacific Weed
Risk Assessment (HPWRA) including increasing the number of species
evaluated by the assessment.
 Invasive Species - Two grants have been awarded to support the
development of the Plant Pono website that is intended to provide
information on appropriate plants for landscaping and to promote the
use of the Pacific Weed Risk Assessment (HPWRA) as an objective,
science-based predictive tool. It also provides access to invasive plant
experts in Hawai`i so that the community can make good planting
decisions. www.plantpono.org
 Coastal Readiness - Awarded three grants for the Coastal Readiness
goal. The first grant was a literature review, the second and third
grants looked at the type of vegetation that survives tsunami and
storm surge events, examined whether past or existing vegetation has
had an effect on mitigating beach erosion due to wave impacts in
Hawai`i, gathered information on vegetation that grows near the
shore in Hawai`i given different environmental factors, and
determined if there are alternative plants.
Issue 6:
Conservation of Native Biodiversity
Issue 6: Conservation of Native Biodiversity
Biodiversity Objective/Management Strategies for Lands with Intact Native Ecosystems
Strategy 1: Engage in conservation to maintain intact native ecosystem and species. (National
Themes: 1 CONSERVE, 2 PROTECT, and 3 ENHANCE)
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A number of projects were conducted on research and management on the most
endangered birds in Hawaii, including the Kauai Endangered Seabird Recovery Project,
Kauai Forest Bird Recovery Project, Maui Forest Bird Recovery Project, and Mauna Kea
Forest Restoration Project. These projects usually work in the most intact native forests
in Hawaii, where many of these bird species are restricted and conduct predator
control, population monitoring, breeding and demography studies, habitat restoration,
and assist in the captive breeding programs for certain species.
The Plant Extinction Prevention Program (PEP) implemented recovery actions for a total
of 138 PEP species. Population monitoring was implemented for 105 PEP species placing
88 of these into ex situ (off-site) cultivation at either a cooperating rare plant nursery or
botanical garden. Surveys were conducted for 65 PEP species. To protect the founders in
the wild, non-native animal and plant threats were managed for 78 PEP species.
Four mid-elevation nurseries of Volcano (Hawai‘i), Pahole (O‘ahu), Olinda (Maui) and
Kōke‘e (Kaua‘i) propagated 285 rare plant taxa for outplanting, with approximately
20,000 individuals out-planted back into natural habitats.
Lyon Arboretum Micro-propagation Laboratory received 236 separate collections
representing 78 species, of which 53 (68%) are from species federally listed as
Threatened and Endangered (T&E). The total number of plants that the lab currently has
in inventory is 19,750.
Lyon Seed Conservation Laboratory accessioned 352 collections, representing 691
individual seed lots, and 164 species. Of these individual seed lots, 537 (78%) were from
T&E species. A total of 2,451,371 seeds were deposited into the seed bank.
Snail Extinction Prevention Program (SEPP) is a partnership between DLNR/DOFAW and
the USFWS, established to prevent the extinction of rare Hawaiian land snail species,
and preserve the ecosystems upon which these species depend. Over the last five years
the SEPP program has directed survey, monitoring, habitat stabilization and predator
control efforts around the most rare snail populations on Oahu and Maui. The SEPP
program has received funding to develop a captive propagation and reintroduction
program for rare snails. This program will prioritize the short-term rearing of native
snails for translocation to existing habitats that are protected or restored.
Like many pollinators, native yellow-faced bees in the genus Hylaeus are declining
across their historic range. The NIP Program has supported three separate projects
which have been directed at assessing the conservation status, increasing populations,
and now enhancing remaining habitat for the species. These projects are the first of
their kind to target restoration and reintroduction for these important, but little studied
pollinator species. Our State insect, the Kamehameha butterfly has also been a target of
conservation actions. The NIP program has supported a statewide survey and
population assessment of the species, and is also working to determine what predators
and parasitoids are impacting given populations.
Strategy 2: Maintain native dominated ecosystems (50 to 100% native), including water- bird
habitat and intact coastal sites. (National Themes: 1 CONSERVE, 2 PROTECT, and 3 ENHANCE)
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Wetland restoration was conducted at a number of sites around the islands including
Mana Plains on Kauai, Kawainui, Pouhala, and Hamakua marshes on Oahu, and Kanaha
Ponds Wildlife Sanctuary on Maui. In addition, DOFAW conducts an annual census of
waterbirds across the islands.
Additional protection and management of key coastal sites was conducted on Oahu with
the Oahu Offshore Islet Seabird Sanctuary project, as well as ongoing efforts to remove
rats and restore seabirds to Lehua Islet off of the north coast of Niihau.
DOFAW also managed the remote Kure Atoll, the northwestern-most island in the
Hawaiian chain, where invasive species removal is ongoing, including invasive plant and
ant eradication efforts. Seabird censuses and monitoring is also a key component of this
project.
See Issue 1: Water Quality and Quantity regarding acres of native forest protected.
Biodiversity Objective/Management Strategies for Lands with Rapidly Degrading Ecosystems
Strategy 1: Enhance native dominated habitat with formerly widespread plant species that now
limited in range.
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The Plant Extinction Prevention Program conducted out-planting of 30 PEP species and
five other rare species to protected natural habitats throughout Hawaii.
Biodiversity Objective/Management Strategy for Threatened Native Ecosystems
Strategy 1: Restoration of landscapes with high potential for successful restoration due to their
proximity (within 1 km) of substantial areas of native-dominated vegetation.
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Extensive restoration was conducted in Nakula NAR (480 acres) on Maui and Kaohe
Restoration Area and Puu Mali Restoration Area (~6,900 acres combined) on Hawaii
Island, all of which have extensive cover of non-native grasses due to past grazing
histories. In these areas, we have planted thousands of trees, including koa, ohia,
mamane, iliahi, akoko, aalii, kolea, pilo, mamaki, ohelo, akala, and aweoweo, all of
which are common species, except the iliahi and akoko, both of which are uncommon to
rare. Nakula is the future site identified for the creation of a second population of the
critically endangered Maui parrotbill, while Kaohe and Puu Mali are being restored for
the eventual restoration of the Palila.
Education & Outreach
Strategy 1. Environmental Education curriculum that supports the link between Hawaii’s unique
cultural traditions and native biodiversity.
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The Plant Extinction Prevention Program focused on increasing its visibility in the public
arena to share our progress in rare plant conservation with others. PEPP distributed
items at various public events and staff have presented the following talks, displays, and
participated in video tapings during this reporting period:
A PEPP brochure was created that describes the PEP Program and its major activities.
The brochure is given out at public and conservation-oriented events such as the
Bioblitz and Cultural Festival and Earth Day events (https://vimeo.com/125209142),
along with the PEPP coloring book that was prepared previously.
Strategy 2: Work with existing programs, community groups and schools to increase public
awareness of conservation and biodiversity issues by involving the public in restoration projects
and increasing public access to lands with intact native ecosystems.
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Each of Hawaii’s four island branch offices hired outreach coordinators to work with all
of DOFAW’s programs, as well as assist with the Hawaii Environmental Literacy Plan.
Issue 7:
Hunting, Nature-based Recreation, and
Tourism
Issue 7: Hunting, Nature-Based Recreation and Tourism
Provide Public Access to Natural Areas
Strategy 1: Enhance, preserve and protect areas for nature-based recreation.
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An estimated 33,375 hunter days were logged annually.
Hunting license sales have increased in the past 5 years with resident licenses up to
2000 per year and non-resident from 325 per year to 650 per year.
A University of Hawaii researcher conducted an opinion survey on perceptions of game
species in Hawaii.
Strategy 2: Preserve open space and natural settings through public and private acquisitions,
conservation easements, MOU’s, Access Agreements, Cooperative Agreements
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DOFAW has employed a full time access manager position for the past three years. This
position works with landowners statewide to secure access, easements, and purchase of
properties to provide improved public access to DOFAW lands that are frequently
located above private lands with access restrictions.
Strategy 3: Promote responsible behavior and preservation of natural and cultural resources
through understanding and stewardship of these resources.
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DOFAW’s hunting rules were revised.
A guide book for public hunting was published by DOFAW.
DOFAW’s outreach coordinator developed materials for hunter education and the
department’s enforcement division.
DOFAW conducted youth hunts to promote hunting with future generations.
Provide Recreational Opportunities and Manage Game Mammals
Strategy 1: Comply with relevant State statutes (HRS 183D & 195D) and federal laws (PittmanRobertson [PR] and Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act)
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An estimated 33,375 hunter days were logged annually.
Hunting license sales have increased in the past 5 years with resident licenses up to
2000 per year and non-resident from 325 per year to 650 per yr.
Approximately 5,700 game mammals were harvested annually from DOFAW-managed
lands.
DOFAW opened up significant new areas for hunting access.
Strategy 2: Increase the capacity to effectively manage game mammals through better research
and monitoring.
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DOFAW conducted a 5-year Pittman Robertson plan and a new one is in development.
DOFAW managed 42 hunting units statewide for 19 game species.
Multiple game research projects were initiated including two underway on Lanai and
Hawaii islands.
Community partnerships were created to facilitate more effective game management.
DOFAW’s Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) Program developed several HCP’s in hunting
areas and Game Management Areas.
Strategy 3: Increase effective communication between programs and the public, and among
programs regarding resource problems, management and protection issues.
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Hawaii’s Game Mammal Advisory Committees (GMACs) advised DOFAW on game
mammal management.
Community outreach was conducted in coordination with the Three Mountain Alliance,
the largest watershed partnership in the state located on the island of Hawaii.
The alala outreach coordinator on the island of Hawaii conducted outreach with
communities that might be affected by the imminent release of the Hawaiian crow.
Outreach and Education
Strategy 1: Children’s Forest
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The Moanalua Children's Forest has been active since 2011 and has since been a
platform for forestry education for thousands of kids. Students have the opportunity to
learn about invasive species, native species out planting and management, cultural and
western uses of plants, and cultural connections to the valley.
Strategy 2: Maintain a relationship with the Hawaii Environmental Education Alliance and help
implement the Hawaii Environmental Literacy Plan
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DOFAW’s outreach coordinator served as an active member and leader of the Hawaii
Environmental Education Alliance.
Each of Hawaii’s four island branch offices hired outreach coordinators to work with all
of DOFAW’s programs, as well as assist with the Hawaii Environmental Literacy Plan.
Issue 8:
Forest Products and Carbon Sequestration
Forest Products: Support Development of Forest Products Industry
Strategy
National Themes
Integrated Forest Products Industry in Hawaii.
1. Conserve working forest landscapes
3. Enhance public benefits from trees and forests
Accomplishments
Over the past five years, DOFAW has engaged supported, or developed a variety of forest
products including, carbon markets, hardwood plantations, wild stand production, Christmas
tree markets opportunities, and biomass energy through fuel reduction treatment.
 Carbon market – With assistance from a University of Hawaii graduate student, DOFAW
reviewed the feasibility of engaging carbon credit markets opportunities on state forest
reserve lands primarily focusing on the different voluntary and mandatory carbon
standards that could be applicable to Hawaii. A report detailing this information was
provided to interested state managers and private landowners. Additionally, DOFAW
worked with the island foresters and several private landowners (one of which is now the
first voluntary carbon project in Hawaii) to identify potential opportunities for carbon
projects on state and private lands. DOFAW is also looking into options for potential
collaboration agreements such as Public-Private-Partnerships with non-governmental
forest carbon projects.
 Carbon sequestration - One major concern identified through the carbon market feasibility
review was the lack of solid growth information and curves for native species in Hawaii.
Thus DOFAW is working with both the U.S. Forest Service Institute of Pacific Island Forestry
(IPIF) and Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) to provide data for voluntary and mandatory
carbon markets that will allow forest carbon projects to participate. The Division has met
with USFS Forest Inventory Analysis, California Carbon Compliance Market, and Gold
Standard Carbon Market representatives to discuss needs for participating in the various
carbon market opportunities, including identification of potential opportunities for
addressing the lack of carbon growth models for Hawaii species.
 Forest Production – Through the Forest Stewardship Program DOFAW has provided
planning support and state cost-share for establishment of 14 private lands projects that
include management components for forest production, including hardwood plantations,
agroforestry systems, and natural forest production.
 Hardwood Plantations – DOFAW is finalizing the environmental review for the state’s
largest timber management area in Waiakea on Hawaii Island. Following the completion
of the environmental review, this area will be opened to the public for active timber
management. DOFAW in partnership with the Trust for Public Lands is actively seeking
funding support, including the Forest Legacy Program, for the acquisition of the Helemano
Wilderness Area that includes approximately 1,500 acres slated for timber and non-timber
forest production on the Island of O’ahu; this project will represent the first timber
management area on O’ahu.
 Natural Forest Management – The Forest Legacy Program protected 11,000 acres of
ohia/koa/sandalwood forest through conservation easements in South Kona on Hawai’i
Island. This forest region and these projects in particular are important for the support of
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native forest production in Hawai’i. With the assistance of the Forest Stewardship
Program, these conservation easements aim to sustainably manage these forests by
reducing the overall take of timber resources, increasing total biomass, and providing
habitat for Hawaii’s native wildlife.
Non-invasive Christmas trees – DOFAW with the support of a University of Hawaii
graduate student complied information for a feasibility report on potential opportunities
for Hawaii-grown Christmas trees that would provide an alternative forest product for
landowners and reduce the potential introduction of invasive species (primarily insects
and other invertebrates) from imported trees. Information for the feasibility report was
provided to interested landowners and forest industry associations.
Christmas trees - One of the largest unknowns identified in the feasibility report was the
market for locally grown Christmas trees. In order for a market substitution to work there
needs to be an adequate price and demand to lure landowners into adopting Christmas
trees as a new product to produce on their lands. Thus, DOFAW worked with SMS
Marketing to develop a market analysis of Christmas trees in Hawaii that included
information on the existing markets in Hawaii and the U.S. mainland, as well as
recommendations for increasing market shares for Hawaii-grown Christmas trees. This
analysis is available on the DOFAW website and was directly provided to our Forest
Stewardship landowners and forestry industry association.
Biomass – Following the 2012 forest fire in state managed Eucalyptus plantations on Kauai,
DOFAW in partnership with the Green Energy biomass facility and the U.S. Forest Service
State and Private Forestry (S&PF) developed and has now implemented the first biomass
project in the State of Hawaii. The first approximately 6,000 green tons of timber biomass
were harvested, sold, and transported to Hawai’i's first biomass power plant on Kaua‘i.
Another 12,000 green tons is contracted for delivery within the next months. This project
would not have been possible without the help and technical support provided by Region
5 S&PF.
Fuel reductions – DOFAW proposed a bill to the State Legislature which provides detailed
planning and which appropriates funding for comprehensive, statewide forest fuel
reduction/fire prevention operations. The operations may be partly commercial, provide
forest products such as biomass on most islands, reduce the risk of high-intensity wildfires,
and have silvicultural benefits such as increasing timber product value by spacing out highquality trees, increasing stand stability and resilience, and improving infrastructure.
Strategy
National Themes
Develop research plan for improved forest products.
1. Conserve working forest landscapes
3. Enhance public benefits from trees and forests
Accomplishments
Accomplishments overlap between strategies:
 Improved material – DOFAW worked closely with the forestry stakeholders in developing a
Koa Action Plan for koa forestry in the state. The plan is in the process of being finalized
and will be published as an appendix to the state’s Forest Action Plan.
Strategy
National Themes
Improve opportunities for forest product industries in Hawaii.
1. Conserve working forest landscapes
2. Protect forests from harm
3. Enhance public benefits from trees and forests
Accomplishments
Accomplishments overlap between strategies:
 Protection of Working Forests – The Forest Legacy Program protected 11,000 acres of
ohia/koa/sandalwood forest through conservation easements in South Kona on Hawai’i
Island. This forest region and these projects in particular are important for the support of
native forest production in Hawai’i. With the assistance of the Forest Stewardship
Program, these conservation easements aim to sustainably manage these forests by
reducing the overall take of timber resources, increasing total biomass, and providing
habitat for Hawaii’s native wildlife.
 Biomass – DOFAW started to provide the biomass energy market in Hawai’i with timber
biomass on Kaua’i and is preparing to on the Island of Hawai’i when the construction of
the biomass power plant is completed there.
Forest Products: Explore Feasibility of Carbon Markets
Strategy
National Themes
Research and develop carbon market opportunities.
1. Conserve working forest landscapes
3. Enhance public benefits from trees and forests
Accomplishments
Accomplishments overlap between goals and strategies:
 Research on carbon sequestration - One major concern identified through the carbon
market feasibility review is the lack of solid growth information and curves for native
species in Hawaii. Thus DOFAW is working with both the U.S. Forest Service Institute of
Pacific Island Forestry and Forest Inventory and Analysis to provide data for voluntary and
mandatory carbon markets that will allow forest carbon projects to participate. The
Division has met with USFS Forest Inventory Analysis, California Carbon Compliance
Market, and Gold Standard Carbon Market representatives to discuss needs for
participating in the various carbon market opportunities, including identification of
potential opportunities for addressing the lack of carbon growth models for Hawaii
species.
 Develop carbon market opportunities - DOFAW engaged in discussions with the Attorney
General’s office about legal considerations. DOFAW started exploring options for potential
collaboration agreements such as Public-Private-Partnerships with non-governmental
forest carbon projects
Forest Products: Hardwood Tree and Native Tree Research
Strategy
National Themes
Improved growth and disease resistance for koa and ohia.
1. Conserve working forest landscapes
2. Protect forests from harm
3. Enhance public benefits from trees and forests
Accomplishments
Accomplishments overlap between goals and strategies:
 Disease resistance - Koa families from all of the main Hawaiian islands were screened for
resistance to Fusarium oxysporum, or koa wilt disease. Resistant families were out-planted
into seed orchards on DLNR lands on each island to provide a seed source for future
commercial and restoration plantings.
 Improved material - DOFAW has worked with other forestry stakeholders in coordinating
with Purdue University’s Tropical Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center to
improve koa forestry in the state. The partnership has been challenged by the lack of local
coordination and leadership.
 Improved material - The state worked closely with the forestry section in developing a Koa
Action Plan for koa forestry in the state. The plan is in the process of being finalized and will
be published as an appendix to the state’s Forest Action Plant.
Strategy
National Themes
Invasive species vectors
1. Conserve working forest landscapes
2. Protect forests from harm
3. Enhance public benefits from trees and forests
Accomplishments
 Vectors - DOFAW requested assistance from US Forest Service to conduct forest pest
pathway risk assessments for 13 of the most important native Hawaiian forest species.
The PRA document is currently in publication.
Strategy
Social, cultural and non-traditional forest products
National Themes
3. Enhance public benefits from trees and forests
Accomplishments
Data not available at this time
Issue 9:
Multi-State Issues
Issue 9: Multi-state Issues
Invasive Species Transport
Strategy 1: Develop and implement a Collaborative Improvement Strategy to raise awareness
and implement programs to stop transport of insects & diseases and export/import of species
rated highly invasive across the Pacific. (National Themes: 1 CONSERVE, 2 PROTECT, and 3
ENHANCE)
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The Hawaii Ant Lab, a program of Hawaii Department of Agriculture, led a regional
project to manage invasive ant species and prevent their spread, in part with a grant
received from State & Private funding through the Redesign program. The network
established by this project is still active in cutting edge ant prevention and management
work.
A coconut rhinoceros beetle was detected near the Honolulu International Airport in
December 2013. The source of the introduction is not yet established. The insect pest is
still limited to the island of Oahu and is currently under eradication by USDA APHIS and
Hawaii Department of Agriculture. Scientists at the University of Guam have assisted in
the response by sharing technical expertise.
The Regional Biosecurity Plan for Micronesia and Hawaii, which was triggered by the
Department of Defense’s ‘build-up’ of military personnel and facilities on Guam, was
completed with input from agencies and stakeholders in Hawaii. The Hawaii Invasive
Species Council adopted a resolution in 2014 endorsing the goal and objectives of the
plan.
Hawaii participated as an associate member of the Micronesia Regional Invasive Species
Council through the Hawaii Invasive Species Council manager’s attendance of meetings
and conducting an exchange project in Palau, funded by the Hawaii Conservation
Alliance.
DOFAW coordinated with the Pacific Island Learning Network, a program of the
Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme, which focusses on
management of invasive species in the Pacific islands.
The Coordinating Group on Alien Pest Species hosted a biosecurity forum as part of the
2014 Pacific Entomology Conference that focused on preventing spread of pests within
the pacific, as well as introduction from common sources such as Florida and California.
The forum was funded by the Hau’oli Mau Loa Foundation.
The Pacific Island Biocontrol Consortium, a group of biological control scientists with
active projects in the Pacific island and includes New Zealand and Australia, has
conducted regular conference calls to coordinate on biological control projects.
Protection of Genetic Diversity and Important Food Plants
Strategy 1: Workshops among Hawaii and various Pacific Islands to share technical and cultural
knowledge related to sustainable agro-forestry and marine resource practices. (National
Themes: 1 CONSERVE, 2 PROTECT, and 3 ENHANCE)
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No data available.
Strategy 2: Work collaboratively to mitigate impacts of loss of genetic diversity of food plants,
native species and culturally important species. (National Themes: 1 CONSERVE, 2 PROTECT,
and 3 ENHANCE)
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No data available.
Migratory Shorebird Protection
Strategy 1: Collaborate on the protection and enhancement of known migratory habitat.
Increase capacity to monitor and protect these birds. Engage School and community groups in
the protection of habitat and birds. (National Themes: 1 CONSERVE, 2 PROTECT, and 3
ENHANCE)
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See Issue 6: Biodiversity for details on Hawaii-based activities.
Collaborative Multi-Regional Plan
Strategy 1: Work collaboratively across the Pacific to identify the highest priority issues.
(National Themes: 1 CONSERVE, 2 PROTECT, and 3 ENHANCE)
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Various DOFAW staff regularly participated in Pacific Island Forestry Committee
meetings and events.
Hawaii (DOFAW PEP program – see Issue 6: Biodiversity) and Guam (University of Guam,
UPEP program) collaborated on a project to improve capacity for preservation of rare
plants on Guam.
DOFAW staff attended the 106th Annual Pacific Logging Congress in Waikaloa, Hawaii
Island in early November 2015. This was a good opportunity to learn more about what is
happening with commercial logging in the Pacific. Future collaboration with logging
operations on Fiji and New Zealand are expected in the near future to explore the use of
new equipment and technologies and existing and/or new wood product markets in the
region for niche species, whole logs and non-timber forest products.