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

Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge
Comprehensive Conservation Plan
Use: Commercial Tour Operation/Conservation and Education Group Visits
Refuge Name: Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge (NWR)
City/County and State: Hawai‘i County, State of Hawai‘i
Establishing and Acquisition Authority:
Hakalau Forest NWR was established on October 29, 1985, under the authority of the Endangered
Species Act of 1973, 16 U.S.C. 1534.
Refuge Purpose(s):
The Administration Act directs the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) to manage each refuge to
fulfill the Refuge System mission, to maintain and where appropriate, restore the refuge’s ecological
integrity; and achieve the specific purpose(s) for which the refuge was established.
Hakalau Forest Unit
The purpose of Hakalau Forest NWR is “... to conserve (A) fish or wildlife which are listed as
endangered species or threatened species ....or (B) plants ...” 16 U.S.C. Sec. 1534 (ESA).
Kona Forest Unit
The purpose of Kona Forest Unit is “... to conserve (A) fish or wildlife which are listed as
endangered species or threatened species ....or (B) plants ...” 16 U.S.C. Sec. 1534 (ESA). More
specifically, the unit was established to provide habitat for the ‘alalā and to assist the ‘Alalā
Recovery Program’s repatriation efforts.
National Wildlife Refuge System Mission:
To administer a national network of lands and waters for the conservation, management, and where
appropriate, restoration of the fish, wildlife, and plant resources and their habitats within the United
States for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans (the Administration Act of
1966).
Description of Use(s):
Entry requests from the general public are increasing as more people learn about the Refuge and the
resources it protects. Due to staffing and funding limitations, the risk of adverse impacts to
endangered species and their habitats prevents the Refuge from offering unlimited access to
everyone. Visitor safety and the potential for visitor interference with management programs and
research projects must also be considered. The entry of a limited number of small groups, led by
competent and conscientious people familiar with Refuge objectives and programs, will minimize the
risk of adverse impacts. Guided visits will provide significant environmental education for
participants as well as further knowledge of and appreciation for the Refuge System.
Appendix B: Appropriate Uses and Compatibility Determinations B-43