Abstract

SUMMARY: The documents in the public record are inadequate to document whether endangered species exist in Makena Resort Property, or the extent of endangered dryland forest ecosystems remaining on the property. The County Council should place the following conditions on any rezoning of Makena Resort Corp. property: 1) A thorough flora and fauna survey should be conducted during the months of January through April by recognized independent experts on Hawaiian biota, listing all endemic and indigenous species and their distribution on the property. 2) All areas with remnant native forest, including any groves of wiliwili trees, should be either protected by the most appropriate means:--- Removed from the rezoning request;--- Rezoned as Conservation District;--- Protected by conservation easements;--- Set aside as park, taking priority over land that would be artificial, lawn-centered park;--- Donated to an appropriate entity for preservation, as was done with One Palauea Bay and the University of Hawai`i. 3) Makena Resort Corp. should work with one or more organizations involved with conserving native species to develop a biologically sound plan for preserving its forest resources: