Mauna Kea Science Reserve complex development plan, Mauna Kea, Hamakua, Hawaii. 1983

Author:

Group 70,

Title:

Mauna Kea Science Reserve complex development plan, Mauna Kea, Hamakua, Hawaii. 1983

Periodical:

Mauna Kea Plans

Year:

1983

Subject:

Mauna Kea Science Reserve Complex Development Plan Mauna Kea Science Reserve Mauna Kea planning Environmental impact analysis

Summary:

In addition to being a superior site for ground-based astronomy, Mauna Kea is also a unique locale for other activities. The seasonally snow-covered slopes above the 10,000 foot elevation are used for skiing and snow play. Hawaiian ecosystems, including rare plants and birds, are found between the 6,000-foot elevation and the summit. Hunting of pigs and game birds is a traditional use within and on the perimeter of the Mamane/Naio Forest. General recreation, photography, and sightseeing are also becoming popular uses of the mountain. The mountain's unique volcanic and glacial history and its remarkable ecosystems makes it an ideal site for scientific field research. In the early 1970s, it was recognized that an overall Mauna Kea plan was necessary in order to control development on the mountain and to resolve the conflicting demands of various users who wanted to use the mountain for their activities. Extensive citizen participation in the planning process followed. The main objective of the process was to "determine the compatibility of Mauna Kea's resources to accommodate various uses without unacceptable damage to biotic and other natural and historic values, and the visual appearance of the mountain". The Mauna Kea Plan, a policy framework for the management of Mauna Kea, was adopted by the Board of Land and Natural Resources on February 11, 1977.

Collection:

EIS