Hawaii House Bill HR35

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/25
• Refer: 3/14/25
• Report Pass: 3/28/25
• Passed: 3/28/25

Caption

Urging The Department Of Land And Natural Resources And Other State Agencies To Work With Committed Community Groups To Co-steward Community Forests Located On Public Lands For The Betterment Of The State's Forests And Communities.

Impact

The resolution aims to promote active management of community forests, which are recognized for their significant contributions to public health, environmental integrity, and economic vitality. By focusing on co-stewardship, the resolution highlights the importance of community involvement in forest management, which can foster better ecological outcomes and enhance community resilience. Community forests provide various health benefits, such as access to medicinal plants, as well as environmental benefits including clean air and water, and they contribute to local economies through ecotourism and the sale of forest products.

Summary

House Resolution 35 (HR35) urges the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) and other state agencies in Hawaii to collaborate with community groups for the co-stewardship of community forests located on public lands. This resolution is part of a broader initiative to recognize 2025 as the Year of Our Community Forests, as proclaimed by Governor Josh Green. The resolution emphasizes the need for sustainable and healthy forests, highlighting the integral role they play in the cultural and natural landscape of Hawaii.

Contention

While the resolution seeks to build partnerships between state agencies and communities, challenges may arise in balancing the interests of various stakeholders, particularly in areas where traditional land use practices intersect with environmental management goals. Questions may emerge regarding the allocation of resources, the extent of community input in decision-making processes, and the methods of integrating traditional Native Hawaiian practices into contemporary forest stewardship approaches. Ensuring that these collaborations are equitable and effective will be crucial to the success of co-stewardship efforts.