Natural Resources
Goal: To respect, enhance and perpetuate Hawaii's natural resources to ensure a high level of satisfaction for residents and visitors.
NRAG and Project Support
In 2002, the HTA established the Natural Resources Advisory Group (NRAG), a group of individuals from the public and private sectors to assist and advise the HTA in its Natural Resources Program. The group is consisted of representatives from the following organizations: Department of Land and Natural Resources, The Nature Conservancy, Hawaii Ecotourism Association, Hawaii Tourism Authority, PBR Hawaii, and Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument.
Through this partnership, the HTA and NRAG were able to identify policies and priorities to benefit various projects and organizations around the state. As a result, those organizations have the opportunity to receive support from HTA through a public request for proposals (RFP).
Download a complete list of current programs that HTA supports through this initiative. [pdf]
In addition to helping community programs, the HTA provides $1 million each year to the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) – with $900,000 supporting State parks, and $100,000 supporting trails and access programs.
Natural Resources Videos
The following videos were produced to increase awareness to residents and visitors about the fragility Hawaii's natural environment and resources. It is essential to educate the public about protecting our natural resources so that our islands continue to be a top choice to visit and to live.
Studies commissioned by HTA in this area include:
- Hawaii State Parks Survey 2004 [pdf], conducted by OmniTrak Group.
- Hawaii State Parks Survey 2007 [pdf], an update of the original study, conducted by OmniTrak Group.
- Natural Resource Assessment, conducted by PBR Hawaii, evaluated approximately 100 natural resource sites frequented by visitors; identified and prioritized needed areas of improvement; and recommended actions to improve natural resources throughout the State.
Natural Resource Assessment Volume 1 [pdf]
Natural Resource Assessment Volume 2 [pdf]
