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The state department of Land and Natural Resources will implement a new two-year area restriction at the ‘Ahihi-Kina‘u Natural Area Reserve beginning Friday, August 1st, 2008. This will result in the closure of access to the majority of the reserve, including unofficial trails to Kalua o Lapa, Kalaeloa (popularly known as “the Aquarium”), and Mokuha (also known as “the Fishbowl”). Access to northern portions of the reserve most used by the public will remain open during visiting hours. Some of these open areas include the Waiala Cove and the coastal area along ‘Ahihi Bay including the “Dumps” surf break. The decision is being implemented to increase protection for the resources at the Reserve. The restricted access period will last until July 31, 2010. DLNR Chairperson Laura Thielen said, “Recent studies have shown that the growing numbers of visitors to the area have severely impacted both the natural and cultural resources." She said, "We cannot allow resource degradation to continue unchecked.” Thielen went on to say, “This two-year restriction period is a first step to immediately address concerns and allow the fragile resources in ‘Ahihi-Kina‘u to rest.” Persons found in the restricted areas or in the reserve after visiting hours may be cited or arrested. The violations are considered a misdemeanor and are punishable by fines of up to $1,000 and/or imprisonment for up to a year. By law, it is illegal to remove, injure, or kill any living thing as well as to damage, disturb, or remove any geologic or cultural site. DLNR staff will be monitoring sensitive areas, and assessing whether further measures and protective actions might be taken to and yet still allow for public access in the future. Public meetings will be held to discuss the future plans for the reserve through the development of an action plan and a long range management plan. At the end of the two-year period, staff will present their findings to the Board of Land and Natural Resources, who will determine if further restrictions are warranted or if the reserve will be reopened. Access into the newly-restricted areas may be granted via permit to individuals, which may include cultural practitioners, and school groups. All access into restricted areas will require an approved permit from the Natural Area Reserve Commission and accompaniment by a ranger. For a map of the restricted areas or more information on ‘Ahihi-Kina‘u Natural Area Reserve, visit www.dofaw.net/NAR/ or call the Division of Forestry and Wildlife office on Maui at 984-8100.