Nominate Big Island lands now to be considered for preservation

Hawai‘i County Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission is now accepting nominations from the public for lands to be considered for preservation.

The deadline to submit nominations is Jan. 31.

Properties could qualify for preservation because they offer opportunities for cultural significance, education, natural resources, outdoor recreation and/or public access to beaches or mountains.

Nominations can include:

• Beaches.
• Coastal areas.
• Forests.
• Places of natural beauty.

Properties also could qualify for protection of natural resources, such as watersheds, for general benefits to the public.

Suggestion forms must be received by 4:30 p.m. Jan. 31 by email or mail. Any forms received late will not be reviewed.

All forms received will not be returned.

Click here and select the “Suggestion Form and Information” folder or contact Hawai‘i County’s Property Management Division via email at PONC@hawaiicounty.gov to obtain a 2026 suggestion form to nominate properties.

Properties are nominated each year by the public then reviewed and ranked by the Hawai‘i County Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission and recommended by the mayor.

Purchases require a willing seller and authorization by Hawai‘i County Council.