Date & Time Monday, August 17, 2026 2:00 PM
Location Division of Forestry and Wildlife 2135 Makiki Heights Drive
Honolulu, HI 96822
Remote Access Join Online

AI-Generated Summary

Plain-language overview — always verify with official documents

What's Being Discussed

  • Program updates: A new staff member, James Harmon, has been hired to lead the trails program, which is being renamed the "Outdoor Recreation Section."
  • Storm damage and trail repairs: Several Oʻahu trails were damaged by severe weather. Key updates include:
    • Kealia Trail is open after storm damage; FEMA funding has been requested for long-term repairs.
    • Mānoa Falls Trail was heavily damaged by Kona Low storms and is being assessed for contract repairs.
    • Poamoho, Waimano, Kanealole, Hauʻula Loop, and Kaunala trails have been repaired or are under review.
  • Ongoing trail projects: Topics include a possible reservation system for Kaiwa Ridge, a closure at Maʻakua Trail due to Little Fire Ants, stair removals, erosion management, and a trail capacity study.
  • Legislation: HB 2218 would allow the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to enter into community co-management agreements for trails.
  • Program Plan: A long-term plan is in a public comment period, with revisions expected to be finalized by the end of the year.
  • Volunteer and community programs: Staff are working to expand volunteer trail maintenance opportunities.
  • User group reports from hikers, hunters, equestrians, mountain bikers, trail runners, and others.

Decisions Expected

  • Approval of previous meeting minutes.
  • Discussion and possible guidance on the ongoing Program Plan and trail review process.

Who Should Pay Attention

  • Hikers, trail runners, mountain bikers, equestrians, hunters, and other outdoor recreation users on Oʻahu
  • Volunteers and community groups involved in trail maintenance
  • Residents near affected trails such as Mānoa Falls, Kealia, Poamoho, and Maunawili
  • Anyone interested in how public lands and trails are managed

How to Participate

This is a public meeting — all community members are welcome to attend and provide testimony. Meetings are typically held in person and may also be accessible online.