State proposes rule to ensure safe access to Maunakea summit
AG and DLNR propose rule that designates a restricted area during nighttime hours and also prohibits camping-related supplies within the restricted areas at all hours.
In a joint media release, the State Attorney General and the Department of Land and Natural Resources announced today the state is proposing a rule to promote safe access to the Maunakea summit. The emergency rule, in response to the recent protests on the mountain regarding the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope, is to be considered by the Hawai‘i Board of Land and Natural Resources at its regularly scheduled meeting on Friday, July 10, 2015.
The proposed rule schedules nighttime hours during which individuals may not remain within a designated restricted area and also prohibits the presence of camping-related supplies within the restricted areas at all hours.
“In recent weeks dozens of people have camped on the grounds or remained parked in cars for prolonged periods, either on or near the access road to Mauna Kea. Boulders and rock walls have been placed on the road,” explains Attorney General Doug Chin. “Invasive species have been introduced. Unauthorized toilets have been placed on the grounds. Individuals remaining in the area have reportedly caused visitors and workers to feel harassed. Consumption of water, which must be trucked up the mountain, is at record high usage. All of this has occurred in a partially graveled, steeply graded area without markings or guardrails.”
Suzanne Case, chairperson of the Department of Land and Natural Resources, says the department has been delegated the power and duty to manage and regulate all lands which may be set apart as game management areas, public hunting areas, and wildlife sanctuaries.
“The Department is authorized to promulgate rules to carry out these duties,” says Case. “These rules concern the preservation, protection, regulation, extension, and utilization of, and conditions for entry into wildlife sanctuaries, game management areas, and public hunting areas.”
