Oʻahu DMAP Steering Committee and DLNR Staff Tour Kaʻena Point Natural Area Reserve

Our Oʻahu Steering Committee member Bob Masuda of DLNR arranged a day of learning for our tourism industry, county partners and our DMAP steering committee.  We ventured through native forests at the top of Mount Kaʻala, the highest point on Oʻahu.  We got to see some native snails this forest sustains and learn about the importance of these native forests in protecting our watersheds and sustaining life for our residents on Oʻahu. 

We then ventured back down the mountain to have lunch and learn about the partnership between DLNR and YMCA Honolulu - Camp Erdman.  Camp Erdman is pivoting their business to allow for some tours during the weekdays, offering a new experience for visitors, including lunch with a hula show and native Hawaiian crafting stations.  As their partnership grows, Camp Erdman will look to serve as stewards to Kaʻena Point Natural Area Preserve due to their proximity and 24/7 business model.   

After lunch, we then travelled into Kaʻena Point Natural Area Preserve.  We learned about how gated access,  simple fencing installations and roped off trails can help to keep invasive species like rats and cats away from nesting endangered sea birds native to Hawaiʻi.  Management solutions like this can help to support our natural resources, endangered animals and create a better experience overall for residents and visitors.  

If you decide to venture to Kaʻena Point Natural Area Preserve, please be sure to stay on the trail, use mineral sun screen, bring your reusable water bottle and take only memories with you!