Hawaii congressional delegation seeks national forest declaration

Hawaii’s four-member U.S. congressional delegation has introduced bills to direct the U.S. Forest Service to assess the potential for Hawaii lands to be declared a national forest, in partnership with local stakeholders from the state and community.

The pair of bills were introduced by Sens. Brian Schatz and Mazie Hirono and Reps. Ed Case and Kai Kahele, all Democrats.

Across the U.S., more than 150 national forests receive federal funding to sustain healthy forests, conserve watersheds and wildlife habitats, reduce fire hazards, and provide recreational access. The national forest designation also allows for further research opportunities as well as other federal support and natural resource management.

“Hawaii’s rain forests are home to some of the most diverse wildlife in the country, but hundreds of these species are endangered and in need of protection,” said Schatz. “Our bill is a critical first step to conserving these vibrant ecosystems and establishing our state’s first national forest.”

Read more: https://www.hawaiitribune-herald.com/2021/03/05/hawaii-news/hawaii-congressional-delegation-seeks-national-forest-declaration/