HI HR20

Recognizes the 15th anniversary of the Legacy Land Conservation Program, established by the Legislature in 2005 with dedicated state funding to purchase interests in private land for preservation of natural, cultural, and agricultural resources.

The program has conserved 37 properties totaling approximately 21,600 acres across five islands, ranging from Waikapuna and Kahuku on Oahu's Kahu coast to Black Pot Beach Park in Hanaleia, Kauai.

Notable conservation achievements include protecting 167 acres of agricultural land at Kainalu Ranch on Molokai (2006), over 2,300 acres near Naalehu on Hawaii Island associated with historian Mary Kawena Pukui (2019), and the Kuamoo Battlefield and Burial Ground in Kona.

Expanded the Pupukea Forest Reserve in northern Oahu from 782 acres to 4,482 acres through the acquisition of land from Dole Food Company, the largest property transaction in program history.

Commends the program for strengthening connections between communities and important resources while maintaining landscape integrity by preserving open spaces and scenic views.