State seeks input for additional protections of Alakai Wilderness
LIHUE (HawaiiNewsNow) - The state is looking for community feedback on a proposed fencing project in the Alakai Wilderness Preserve on Kauai.
The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) said the project adds 2,400 acres of fencing to protect the wilderness preserve and connect to other fenced areas to exclude invasive pigs and deer.
Officials said gates and stepovers will be built into the fence to maintain public access.
According to DOFAW, the Alakai is the state’s only wilderness reserve, and is home to the headwaters of the Kawaikoi, Waikoali, and Mohihi streams. The area is also important to safeguarding Kauai’s water resources and native species, like some of the world’s most at-risk forest birds, including the akikiki, puaiohi, and akekee.
In addition to the fencing, DOFAW said the project would include removing pigs, deer, and Himalayan ginger and strawberry guava to reduce impacts on native plants, birds, and slow the spread of a fungal pathogen called Rapid Ohia Death.
The project would also remove pigs and deer..
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