MEDIA RELEASE

The Department of Land and Natural Resources is now accepting applications for a workshop series designed for forestry and natural resource consultants interested in writing forest management plans in conjunction with the Hawaii Forest Stewardship Program (FSP).

The first of these two-day workshops will be held on the islands of Oahu and Hawaii during the first week in November.

The Hawaii Forest Stewardship Program provides technical and financial assistance to private landowners and land managers committed to the stewardship, conservation and restoration of important forest resources across the state.

Through the support of natural resource consultants, the program is able to guide private landowners in the sustainable management and stewardship of Hawaii’s forest resources.

These private properties provide a variety of public benefits for the residents of Hawaii, including but not limited to: groundwater production, decreased soil erosion, wildlife habitat, timber production, recreational and educational opportunities, and local jobs.

The assistance provided by the Forest Stewardship Program enables private landowners to develop and implement long-term, multi-resource management plans to conserve, restore and maintain forested areas on their property.

Workshop participants can expect to gain knowledge on important forestry management topics; access to pertinent references for planning for a variety of natural resources concerns or objectives; training on and access to the U.S. Forest Service’s SMART planning and mapping software; guidance on how to assist landowners that are participating in the Forest Stewardship Program and other financial assistance programs; and introduction to becoming a Technical Service Provider under U.S. Department of Agriculture; among other topics.

All forestry and natural resource consultants interested in writing Forest Stewardship management plans are strongly encouraged to participate in the workshop series.

To reserve your space, contact Malia Nanbara with the Division of Forestry and Wildlife at (808) 587-4176 or malia.y.nanbara@hawaii.gov, with name, company (if applicable), the workshop(s) location of interest, and education background before Oct. 21.

Participation in the Forest Management Plan Workshops is limited to 20 people per workshop, and will be on a first-come, first-serve basis.

For participants from Kauai, Molokai, Lanai or Maui, travel awards may be available. If interested in a travel award, please include the requested amount, and justification of need when contacting Nanbara.