Senators Mazie K. Hirono and Brian Schatz and Representatives Ed Case and Kai Kahele introduced legislation that directs the U.S. Forest Service to assess the potential for Hawaiʻi lands to be declared a national forest, in partnership with local stakeholders from the state and community.

National forests receive federal funding to sustain healthy forests, conserve watersheds and wildlife habitats, reduce fire hazards, and provide community recreational access. The national forest designation also allows for further research opportunities as well as other federal support and natural resource management.  The bill would require the Forest Service to submit a report to Congress within three years that includes results and any recommendations or conclusions.

In a press release from her office, Senator Hirono said, “Hawaiʻi has unique biodiversity that is currently not represented within the National Forest System. At a time when our environment, species, and watersheds are under constant threat, efforts like this bill can help identify forests in Hawaiʻi that are most suitable to preserve as a national forest.”

 

 

AP Photo – Alex Brandon Photographer