Final Comprehensive Conservation Plan - U.S. Fish and Wildlife ...

Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge
Comprehensive Conservation Plan
5.2.7 Recreational Trends and Demands
The State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan Update (SCORP 2009) built upon the SCORP
(2003), which concluded that a general decrease in leisure time has influenced the demand for more
recreational opportunities close to home. This decrease is due to a rise in single adults and working
women, as well as an increase in the national median work week (DLNR 2003).
The top five priority issues for the 2009 update as determined from the agency and public meeting
discussions and survey results are:
� Protection of natural and cultural resources;
� Management of recreation resources and facilities;
� Meeting the needs of recreation users;
� Access to recreation resources; and
� Funding.
In comparison to many other public land areas on Hawai‘i Island, Hakalau Forest NWR is not likely
to provide significant recreational opportunities for the life of the CCP. Given the remote nature of
the site and presence of endangered species, the Refuge will have a small role to play. However, the
protection of the natural resources present here will help to address the number one priority issue
from the SCORP Update. The Refuge will continue to offer limited recreational opportunities for
very specialized recreation participants such as birdwatchers.
As a component of the National Wildlife Refuge System, Hakalau Forest NWR has a mandate to
consider public uses such as hunting, fishing, wildlife observation and photography, and
environmental education and interpretation. Those activities may be approved on a case-by-case
basis and found compatible with the purposes and goals of the Refuge. Other public uses may be
considered but must first be determined both appropriate and compatible (Appendix B identifies
appropriate uses and compatible use determinations).
5.2.8 Impact of Illegal Uses
Incidence of theft, vandalism, and trespass on Refuge lands are factors that, owing to the remoteness
of the Refuge, remain a concern in terms of staff and visitor safety, security, property damage or loss
of government or partner assets, potential for impacts to threatened and endangered species, and
potential contribution to accidental or deliberate wildfire. Service law enforcement coordinates with
Refuge staff and other law enforcement agencies to monitor and investigate illegal activity. However,
currently, there is only one law enforcement zone position for all 22 refuges in the Pacific and
Hawaiian islands. Only Midway Atoll NWR, Guam NWR, and the Kaua‘i NWR Complex have their
own law enforcement officer. It is anticipated that an increase in law enforcement presence would
reduce the incidence of illegal activity.
5.2.9 Historic/Cultural Sites
Hakalau Forest Unit
National and State historic sites have the potential to be recreational areas for both local residents and
tourists. There are 128 National and State historic sites within the County. Within the Hilo region, the
Chapter 5. Social and Economic Environment 5-17