Client
State of Hawai‘i Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW)
A Plan for Restoration and Sustainment
The State of Hawai‘i, Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) is updating the master plan for the Kawainui-Hāmākua Marsh Complex. The approximately 1,006-acre project area also includes Pu‘uoehu Ridge, acquired by the State. This marsh complex is the largest wetland in the State, provides flood control in the Kailua area, serves as an important habitat for endangered Hawaiian waterbirds, and contains numerous cultural and historical resources. It has received a RAMSAR designation as a wetland of international importance.
HHF Planners (HHF) is updating the Kawainui-Hāmākua Marsh Complex Master Plan to serve as DOFAW’s guide for implementing future improvements to the Kawainui-Hāmākua Marsh Complex to support sustaining and enhancing its natural and cultural resources. The updated master plan will also serve as a basis for preparing a State and Federal environmental document and obtaining land use entitlements (CDUP, SMA, etc.). HHF’s notable actions contributing to this project includes:
- Extensive community outreach with government agencies, community organizations, and the general public given the community’s strong interest in this resource.
- Effective community-based planning to integrate resource protection concerns, native Hawaiian cultural practices, and increased public access and outdoor recreational opportunities.
- Innovative land use and site planning concepts.