HI HCR82

Mount Ka'ala Natural Area Reserve, established in 1981, currently encompasses 1,100 acres in the Waianae Mountains on Oahu with elevations from 4,020 feet to 1,200 feet.

The reserve hosts 12 natural communities, 208 native plant taxa (69 rare), and 11 native animal taxa (7 rare), including two rare forest types.

Urges the Department of Land and Natural Resources, with input from the Natural Area Reserves Systems Commission, to explore expanding the reserve to include the slopes of Mount Ka'ala, particularly in the Waialua direction.

Expansion aims to better protect endemic species and ecosystems, maintain pristine conditions, and promote Hawaiian cultural preservation and native gathering rights.

Department of Land and Natural Resources must report findings and recommendations to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2023 Regular Session convenes.