Hawaii Legislature Approves North Shore Oahu Conservation Plan
Kahuku and Kawela bay. Photo by Sean Davey
On May 1, 2014, the Hawaiʻi State Legislature passed a bill that authorized the State to invest $40 million to support the perpetual conservation of 665 acres of coastal lands on the North Shore of Oʻahu from Kawela Bay (pictured above) to Kahuku Point.
The passage of HB 2434 by the State House of Representatives by a vote of 49-2 came two days after the State Senate unanimously passed the same measure by a vote of 25-0. This will ensure that the five-mile wild coastline will be preserved forever as a refuge for wildlife and future generations.
The Turtle Bay Property has been zoned resort and at risk of major development by multiple hotel operators for the past three decades. Fortunately, a collaboration of local conservation groups, including the North Shore Community Land Trust (NSCLT), organized an impressive effort to provide a conservation alternative to the existing development plans.
Doug Cole, executive director of NSCLT, announced the new pact:
“The State of Hawaiʻi, City and County of Honolulu, Trust for Public Land, and Turtle Bay Resort recently reached an agreement to conserve over 665 acres of priceless coastal lands from Kawela Bay to Kahuku Point and we are thrilled that on May 1, 2014 the State Legislature approved the $40 million necessary to complete this transaction.”
Perpetual public access to the shoreline and along an extensive network of coastal recreational trails will provide residents and visitors with the unique opportunity to experience one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world.
“Ensuring perpetual public access to over five miles of privately maintained but publicly enjoyed coastal hiking trails will mark an unprecedented public-private partnership success and we commend all involved for their hard work and tremendous leadership,” added Mr. Cole.
More information/to donate to the North Shore Community Land Trust
