Conservation ideas sought

The state wants input in the
development of a wildlife strategy

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources is seeking input on the development of a statewide wildlife conservation strategy.

"This is an exciting opportunity for the people of Hawaii to come together in a shared effort to conserve our unique native wildlife for our children and our children's children," DLNR Director Peter Young said.

There are more than 10,000 species in Hawaii that can be found nowhere else on earth, according to Young.

"The comprehensive wildlife conservation strategy, together with other initiatives, is a step that will help to continue to ensure these species are there for future generations to enjoy and appreciate," he said.

DLNR is seeking to combine into one document all existing information about the distribution and abundance of native wildlife species, the key habitat used by these species, the threats to these species and/or their habitats, and needed conservation actions.

Similar reports are being done in all states and territories, and are to be reported to Congress this fall.

The strategy does not introduce new regulations or constraints, and stresses fiscal responsibility by proactively conserving wildlife, and long-term goals of keeping common species common.

All state strategies are required by Congress to provide:

» Distribution and abundance of species of greatest conservation need.

» Descriptions of location and condition of key habitats for identified species.

» Proposed conservation actions.

» Plans to monitor species.

» Plans for coordinating the development and implementation of the strategy with other entities managing significant land or water areas.

» Procedures to revise the strategy every 10 years.

» Public participation.

To share information or to get involved in the development of the strategy, send a name, contact information, areas of expertise and interest, and comments or suggestions via e-mail to wildlife.strategy@hawaii.gov.

For more information, see www.dofaw.net/cwcs or contact Christine Ogura or Christen Mitchell at 587-0051.