HI HR246

Requests University of Hawaii at Hilo to seek grant funding and resources to study the feasibility of incorporating native Hawaiian plant species in state capital improvement projects

Study must categorize native Hawaiian plant varieties suitable for state projects, assess their environmental and nutritional needs, and identify drought-tolerant species with higher survival rates

Acknowledges that most native Hawaiian plants have poor survival rates at elevations between 100 and 1,500 feet above sea level, requiring additional research before mandating their use in state projects

Requires University of Hawaii at Hilo to submit final report with findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2012 Regular Session

Directs transmission of certified copies to the Chancellor of University of Hawaii at Hilo, President of University of Hawaii, and Chairperson of the Board of Regents