HVNP to Hold Talk Story Session on Management Plan

A talk story session is scheduled at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on Wednesday to discuss its draft general management plan, wilderness study, and environmental impact statement. The meeting will be held at the Kilauea Visitor Center from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

During the meeting, HVNP representatives will hold a formal hearing to receive comments specific to the wilderness study.

The 548-page general management plan intends to establish three alternatives for the park. Each of the plans uses a different approach in protecting and managing park resources, using facilities, and providing access and experiences to visitors to the park, from locals to off-islanders of all ages. Native Hawaiian values like malama ‘aina (nourishing and taking care of the land), and kuleana (responsibility) are among the values implemented with the intent of including and celebrating the values.

Over the course of five years, HVNP sought public comment and conducted interdisciplinary research, field assessments, stakeholder discussions, and Native Hawaiian consultation, all based on the park’s purpose and significance, issues that needed to be addressed and legally mandated.

“We encourage everyone to give these alternatives serious consideration. Take the time to comment, and continue to stay involved to help your national park determine how this national and international treasure will be protected and managed over the next 20 years,” HVNP officials said in a statement.

To review the DGMP/WS/EIS and provide comments, visit the National Park Service Park Planning website.

Comments can also be mailed to:

Superintendent
Attn: DGMP/WS/EIS
P.O. Box 52
Hawai’i National Park
HI 96718-0052.

The public comment period will remain open through June 30.