FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

General Access

How can I access the Kahoʻolawe Island Reserve?

Access to the Reserve—the island and the two miles of ocean surrounding Kahoʻolawe—is restricted because of the continued danger of unexploded ordnance. Access is permitted only with authorization from KIRC for specific purposes such as restoration, education, and culture. Access opportunities are currently limited to volunteering with KIRC in support of cultural and natural resource projects and participating in cultural access with the Protect Kahoʻolawe ʻOhana (PKO). Persons interested in volunteering may fill out the volunteer form. PKO access information is available from their website at kahoolawe.org.

Is it safe to access the Reserve?

No. Unexploded ordnance hazards remain throughout the Kahoʻolawe Island Reserve, including in cleared areas, uncleared areas, and surrounding waters. Because of these hazards—as well as rough terrain and harsh environmental conditions—unauthorized entry is not allowed. Protective measures have been adopted to maximize safety for those with permission to access the Reserve. The Access and Risk Management Plan was developed specifically for this purpose.

Are there facilities for volunteers who access the Reserve?

Basic facilities and amenities such as toilets and campsites are provided for individuals and groups participating in authorized accesses. Volunteers must arrange their own transportation to Maui. Transportation from Maui to Kahoʻolawe is provided.

Ocean Resource Management

Is fishing or boating allowed in the Reserve waters?

Trolling is permitted on two scheduled weekends each month in waters deeper than 30 fathoms (180 feet). No other fishing, ocean recreation, or additional activities are allowed within the Reserve. Absolutely no bottomfishing or use of anchors is permitted because of the hazard of unexploded ordnance and the risk of damage to coral and other parts of the marine ecosystem.

Are there special rules that apply to the Reserve?

Yes. These rules are found in Chapter 13-261, Hawaiʻi Administrative Rules. The Kahoʻolawe Island Reserve—the island plus submerged lands and waters within two nautical miles of the shoreline—is divided into Zones A and B. Zone A includes all submerged lands and waters between the shoreline and waters less than 30 fathoms deep. Unauthorized entry into Zone A is prohibited at all times except in emergencies. Zone B includes all waters and submerged lands between a depth of 180 feet and two nautical miles from shore. Unauthorized entry into Zone B is also prohibited at all times except for trolling on the dates specified in the Open Waters Schedule. Trollers must remain underway at all times while in Zone B.

Who enforces the rules?

The rules governing use of the submerged lands and waters within two nautical miles of Kahoʻolawe are enforced by the State of Hawaiʻi Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE), as well as KIRC and the U.S. Coast Guard.

Restoration

What is KIRC doing to restore the Reserve?

KIRC is actively pursuing restoration projects in both the ocean and island portions of the Reserve. Data on species currently living in the Reserve is continuously collected, and ongoing monitoring is conducted to detect threats to the ecosystem and the species that inhabit it. On Kahoʻolawe, the Restoration Program has successfully reforested and revegetated portions of the island, implemented erosion control systems, and replaced alien plant species with native species. To support these efforts, a 500,000-gallon rainwater catchment and storage facility has been installed and operated to provide irrigation and accelerate revegetation and environmental restoration.

How can I volunteer to help with restoration efforts?

Anyone interested in volunteering to support restoration activities may do so by filling out the volunteer request form.

Culture and Education

How does KIRC care for the cultural resources of the Reserve?

KIRC operates a culture and education program to ensure that the island and its cultural resources are managed effectively and appropriately. Cultural protocols are carefully followed, and cultural practitioners routinely participate in planning and carrying out cultural activities. Restoration work is continuously performed on archaeological and cultural sites throughout the island.

Can someone from KIRC come to my school or organization to talk about Kahoʻolawe?

Yes. The KIRC Culture and Education Program provides speakers and materials to educate students and community groups about Kahoʻolawe. Please call the KIRC office at (808) 243-5020 for more information.

How can I help Kahoʻolawe?

You or a group you belong to can volunteer to work on KIRC projects. Please fill out the volunteer request form.

Can I make a donation?

Donations are gratefully accepted. Please call (808) 243-5020 or visit the giving opportunities page for more information.

Where can I get additional information about Kahoʻolawe?

Information about Kahoʻolawe and the Reserve is available on the KIRC website at kahoolawe.hawaii.gov. For specific inquiries, contact the KIRC office by phone at (808) 243-5020 or by email at KIRC.administrator@hawaii.gov

Administration and Organizational Questions

Who is responsible for the management of the Kahoʻolawe Island Reserve?

The Kahoʻolawe Island Reserve Commission (KIRC) was established in 1993 by the Hawaiʻi State Legislature to manage the Reserve. Composed of seven commission members, KIRC relies on a staff with expertise in Native Hawaiian culture, ocean management, environmental restoration, planning, policy development, and ordnance safety to fulfill its management responsibilities.

What is planned for Kahoʻolawe?

The KIRC strategic plan calls for a campaign to raise funds through partnerships and grants to provide a sustainable trust fund that will enable restoration, stewardship, cultural and educational initiatives, and long-term management. A copy of the strategic plan is available on the KIRC website.

The Strategic Plan initiatives include:

• Assessing and stabilizing cultural sites, while providing for appropriate access and cultural practices.
• Systematically restoring the native environment.
• Developing a strong volunteer base for cultural and natural resource restoration.
• Installing and maintaining appropriate and sustainable infrastructure, including on-island improvements.
• Improving and establishing new inter-island transportation, as well as energy, communication, water, sanitation, and a Kihei information center.
• Developing an enforcement network across the community and government to protect Kahoʻolawe and its waters from illegal, inappropriate, and unsafe uses.
• Maintaining a significant on-island presence for managing and protecting the Reserve.
• Creating and distributing educational programs and materials to broaden public understanding of Kahoʻolawe’s cultural, historical, and spiritual significance.