Forest Reserve Management Plans Division of Forestry and Wildlife Forestry Program
Resource Title: Forest Reserve Management Plans | Division of Forestry and Wildlife: Forestry Program
Organization: Department of Land and Natural Resources
Description:

The Forest Reserve Management Plans page lists comprehensive management plans for many of Hawaiʻi’s state Forest Reserves. These plans guide long-term conservation, watershed protection, cultural resource stewardship, invasive species control, public access, fire prevention, and ecosystem restoration. They cover multiple islands—including Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Maui Nui, and Hawaiʻi Island—ensuring that management is tailored to each reserve’s unique environment.

Target Audience: All
Instructional Roles: Enrichment
Environment: Online only (e.g. interactive map), Self-guided
Content Type: Policy, STEM investigation
Type Of Engagement: Observe, Reflect
Format: Webpage
Activity:
  • Examine reserve-specific plans (e.g., Keālia–Moloa‘a 2013, Moloka‘i 2009, Laupāhoehoe 2016) to understand local conservation goals and strategies.

  • Map reserve boundaries and compare features like trail access, watersheds, and ecosystem types using images and plan summaries.

  • Investigate management priorities, such as invasive species removal, cultural site protection, and habitat restoration.

  • Plan a field trip or virtual exploration using the plans as guides, focusing on map-reading and reserve goals.

  • Develop a mock reserve plan for a local site using the structure and topics found in the official documents.

Topics Covered:
  • Forest ecosystem management and watershed protection

  • Invasive species control and ecological restoration

  • Cultural and traditional resource stewardship

  • Public access planning: trails, recreation, education

  • Fire management and safety protocols

  • Coordinated planning with partners and emergency management

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