The Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) in Hawaii is requesting public input on a new fencing project aimed at protecting an additional 2,400 acres within the Alakaʻi Wilderness Preserve on Kauaʻi. The preserve, recognized as Hawaii’s only wilderness area, contains the headwaters of three major streams—Kawaikōī, Waikoali, and Mōhihi—and plays a significant role in maintaining water resources and supporting native species.
The planned fence would expand the refuge for native plants and animals by connecting with existing fenced sections that keep out invasive ungulates such as pigs and deer. The design includes gates and stepovers to ensure continued public access.
According to DOFAW, “The remote, mountainous forest also provides habitat for some of the world’s most at-risk forest birds, including the ʻakikiki, puaiohi, and ʻakekeʻe. The project will utilize multiple strategies to preserve these resources.”
In addition to fencing, the proposal involves targeted removal of invasive plants like Himalayan ginger and strawberry guava within the protected zone. It also aims to control animal populations that threaten native habitats and slow the spread of Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death disease. Hunting opportunities for these animals will remain available on other public lands across Kauaʻi.
The initiative seeks not only to safeguard environmental resources but also to protect areas important for cultural practices such as lei making and hula. By improving forest integrity, DOFAW hopes to reduce risks related to flooding and erosion on Kauaʻi.
Community members are invited to review a StoryMap titled “Additional Protection in the Alakaʻi Wilderness Preserve,” which outlines benefits, challenges, and future steps for the project. Feedback can be submitted through a survey linked at the bottom of the StoryMap.
Efforts like this align with broader state priorities led by the Hawaii State Executive – Governor. The office works on recovery from natural disasters such as wildfires while supporting affected communities and advancing policies related to housing affordability, renewable energy initiatives, healthcare access, tax reforms for residents’ benefit, climate change mitigation strategies, collaboration with local organizations, honoring veterans and educators as part of social recovery efforts across Hawaii’s regions—including wildfire-impacted areas like Lahaina—according to its official website.
