REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES TO COLLABORATE WITH FEDERAL, STATE, AND COUNTY GOVERNMENTS; LANDOWNERS; AND STAKEHOLDERS TO PROTECT, RESTORE, AND MANAGE THE WEST MAUI WETLANDS AND WETLANDS STATEWIDE.

This Senate resolution asks the Department of Land and Natural Resources to work with federal, state, and county agencies, landowners, and other stakeholders to protect, restore, and manage wetlands across Hawaii, with a specific focus on the West Maui area. The bill highlights the ecological benefits of wetlands, such as improving water quality and providing habitats, while noting that some areas are currently vulnerable due to changes in federal protection laws and past development. It calls for a collaborative statewide effort to rebuild these natural areas, particularly in West Maui, taking advantage of recovery opportunities following recent wildfires. The resolution directs copies to various government officials and agencies to ensure awareness and coordination of these restoration goals.