What's Being Discussed

Staff housing at Kahanu Garden, Maui: The National Tropical Botanical Garden is proposing to build low-impact staff housing on land that was previously protected through a Legacy Land Conservation grant. The property is located in the District of Hana on Maui. The Commission will consult on whether this proposed use is appropriate for conserved land.
Planning for Fiscal Year 2027 grant cycles: The Commission will review and discuss proposed timelines and application forms for the next round of Legacy Land Conservation Program grants, which help fund the protection of important natural and cultural lands in Hawaiʻi.
Program updates: Staff will provide updates on open Commission seats, the status of current conservation projects, and recent or upcoming state legislation related to the program.

Decisions Expected
This meeting is primarily a consultation session — no final votes or formal approvals are listed on the agenda. However, the Commission's feedback on the Kahanu Garden housing proposal, grant timelines, and application forms could shape future decisions and official actions.

Who Should Pay Attention

Residents and community members on Maui, especially those with an interest in the Kahanu Garden and Preserve in Hana
Conservation organizations and landowners in Hawaiʻi who may apply for Legacy Land Conservation Program grants in Fiscal Year 2027
Anyone interested in how the state protects natural and cultural lands through conservation funding

The meeting takes place on August 4, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. and can be attended in person in Honolulu or remotely via Zoom or telephone. Public testimony is welcome.