Legacy Land Conservation Grants awarded to five projects on Maui and Molokai | Maui Now

Pristine coastal areas, culturally significant shorelines, native forest habitat, and lands that support traditional practices and community access will be protected through state funding for land acquisition.

The Hawaii Land and Natural Resources Commission approved a recommendation from the Legacy Land Conservation Commission and DLNR Forest and Wildlife Division to award up to $7 million in state grants to five conservation projects across Maui and Molokai.

The assets (and grantees) preserved are:

• Honolua Bay is a 17.8-acre parcel located in Lahaina, Maui, encompassing coastal and mauka lands that frame one of Hawaii’s most iconic bays. The area supports critical habitat, cultural sites, and frequent public use. Protecting these parcels allows for coordinated management of visitor access, restoration of natural resources, and preservation of the area’s significant cultural and ecological values. (Save Honolua Union)

• Malama Kaunakahakai, approximately 23 acres along Molokai’s south shore near Kaunakakai Pier. This coastal land includes wetlands, waterfowl habitat, and areas traditionally used for canoe landing and gathering. This project supports the preservation of open space and the establishment of a permanent base for Molokai’s nautical community.(Molokai Boat Club)

• Kalokoeli Shoreline is a 7.2-acre shoreline parcel on Molokai Island adjacent to Kalokoeli Fishpond. The region forms a cultural and ecological corridor connecting land and sea, supporting traditional aquaculture, shoreline habitats, and community-based management. The acquisition protects access to cultural practices and strengthens long-term management of this important landscape. (KHM International)

• East Maui Coastal Forest, more than 540 acres of forest along Hana Highway on Maui’s northeast coast. This mixed-growth forest provides habitat for endangered plant species, native seabirds, and the Hawaiian Holly Bat, while also protecting stream and coastal ecosystems. This acquisition will preserve important watershed functions. (DLNR Department of Forestry and Wildlife)

• Haneo Oina is approximately 115 acres located in Hana, Maui. It consists of pastures and areas with important cultural and historical resources, including burial grounds and other wahi panas. The project will help preserve Hana’s rural character, protect important cultural landscapes, and support management and education, and was awarded partial funding for the first time this year. (Royal World)

The state Legislature established the Land Conservation Fund in 2005 to provide permanent, dedicated funding for land conservation through a portion of the real estate transfer tax. Since then, the Legacy Land Conservation Program has helped protect 53 lands spanning 37,000 acres across the state.

The grant application and approval process includes consultation with multiple state agencies, site visits, public meetings, and review by the Legacy Land Conservation Commission. Final approval will be given by BLNR and the Governor.

These grants support the preservation and protection of lands of natural, environmental, recreational, scenic, cultural, agricultural, and historic value. It also provides public access to these resources and helps strengthen partnerships between government and community-based organizations.