The reserve was established by Governor’s Proclamation on April 4, 1906 and eventually brought under the control of the Territorial Government to preserve the south slopes of Hualālai for its valuable forest and large koa trees.

Today, Honua‘ua Forest Reserve is comprised of native shrubland, native wet ‘Ōhi‘a forest, and mesic Koa forest (some of whichis in need of reforestation).

The Hawai‘i County Department of Water Supply has identified the reserve as a Priority 1 Watershed for Hawai‘i Island serving the Kailua-Kona area. This means that the reserve is essential to supporting ecosystem services, such as storm water retention and recharge to aquifers, that supports the critical functions of our local communities.

Game mammal and Game bird hunting opportunities are offered on the six major islands in the State of Hawai‘i: (Kaua‘i, O‘ahu, Maui, Moloka‘i, Lana‘i and the big island of Hawai‘i). Each of these islands has one or more State-designated public hunting areas (called Hunting Units), which are open for hunting at certain times during each year. Game mammal and game bird hunting opportunities are also available on private lands as well. Occasionally, the Division of Forestry & Wildlife (DOFAW) may modify or cancel a hunting season in a particular area to adjust for changes in weather conditions or animal populations.

Division of Forestry and Wildlife Hunting Website

https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/recreation/hunting/

Game Mammal Hunting Rules and Exhibits

https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dofaw/files/2013/09/HAR-123-Game-Mammals.pdf

Game Bird Hunting Rules and Exhibits

https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dofaw/files/2013/09/HAR-122-Game-Birds.pdf