Dan Dennison of the State Department of Land and Natural Resources says that last weekend, an estimated 100 people gathered at the J7 ranch in Hilo to get in streams and waterfalls above the ranch.

Gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited.

The waterways above the J7 (Wailuku River, Hookelekele Stream, Lauiole Falls, Pukamaui Falls and Kauwehu Falls) are collectively known as “Narnia”, and  are part of the Hilo Restricted Watershed Section of the Hilo Forest Reserve.   Several people who have come to the island have promoted hiking in the area, even noting it is private property with “No Trespassing” signs.

A permit is required for entry, but the DLNR Division of Forestry & Wildlife (DOFAW) is not issuing any permits for access to that area at this time. Hunters are allowed to access Hilo Restricted Watershed with a valid hunting license for the purpose of hunting on weekends and holidays only.

Entry through the J-7 Ranch is not allowed.  DLNR Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) officers and Hawai‘i County Police will be enforcing all State laws and rules.

Photo of the J7 area from the County Tax Maps, courtesy Dave Corrigan, Big Island Video News