Residents urge protection of cultural access as Na Ala Hele updates trail plan

News admin May 28, 2026 0 Comments

Residents urge protection of cultural access as Na Ala Hele updates trail plan

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Hawaii’s Na Ala Hele program is updating its statewide plan for the first time and has held an online meeting Wednesday as leaders continue to gather input.

The plan was first implemented in 1991 and is the foundational document for how the program operates, plans and manages trails and public access across Hawaii.

Project leaders are working to create a roadmap that builds on the 1991 plan to reflect current needs, desires and best management practices.

Officials have been gathering input from the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) staff, the Island Advisory Councils, stakeholders with key insights into the program’s operation and the general public.

But in a public Zoom meeting, residents stressed the plan has to protect cultural access, especially as popular trails face heavier use.

“The aina is our alii, and we are like its servants,” Kahealani Keahi, a participant, said. “So it’s, we are the servants of the aina and not the alii of the aina, is kind of what it is. So when we go about talking about trail use, I don’t think we’re using the trail. I think we’re there to steward the trails.”

“Again, we are an access agency, so we will always advocate for the public and Kanaka access to those resources you mentioned,” Jackson Bauer, program manager, said.

Other speakers raised concerns about trail safety and sustainability, along with how overcrowding and closures can affect access for gathering and cultural practice.

For those unable to attend Wednesday’s Zoom meeting, public comment can be submitted online through July 31.

DLNR said feedback will be used to revise the draft plan before it is finalized.

The current and revised plan, along with submitting feedback, can be done online here.