HI HB852

Appropriates state general revenue funds for fiscal year 2011-2012 to execute a watershed management plan for Lāna'ihale on the island of Lāna'i, with funds to be matched by private sources.

Directs the Department of Land and Natural Resources to expend the appropriated funds for watershed management purposes.

Identifies critical water challenges on Lāna'i, including that over 65% of the island's primary aquifer recharge comes from fog drip and loss of forest cover would reduce central aquifer water levels by more than 50%.

Establishes watershed management priorities including removal of feral ungulates from Lāna'ihale, control and removal of alien weeds, and protection of native forest to preserve freshwater recharge areas.

Takes effect on July 1, 2011.