Winter is coming - as are the ocean swells on the North Shore that create epic surf conditions and sometimes threaten private properties close to the shoreline. In this episode, we walk the coastline with Michael Cain, Administrator of the Office of Conservation and Coastal Lands (OCCL), to uncover the complex balancing act between protecting private property and preserving public beaches. From sea walls collapsing on Oʻahu’s North Shore to a statewide permit system that’s easing the p...

In this episode we talk with Ian Hirokawa, Acting Administrator of the Land Division, about the critical but often overlooked role in managing Hawaiʻi’s unencumbered lands. Land Division was most recently in the news as the presenter of the Army Final Environmental Impact Statements to renew their land leases with the Board of Land and Natural Resources. Ian shares insight into the role the Division plays in processing such land use requests. He also delves into major projects like the East K...

In this episode, we sit down with leaders from the Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) to explore the immense responsibility of managing and protecting some of the most precious natural and cultural resources in the islands. From the highest mountain ridges to remote offshore seabird sanctuaries, DOFAW stewards roughly a quarter of Hawai‘i’s land mass — safeguarding native forests, endangered species, and vital watersheds that sustain life in th...

In this episode, we feature the leaders of the Division of Aquatic Resources. Luna Kekoa and Brian Neilson share how personal experiences shape their values and fuel their drive to protect Hawaiʻi’s nearshore waters. From adapting generational knowledge to modern science, to building trust with local communities they reveal how DAR is shifting its approach to ensure thriving fisheries for generations to come. It's not just about managing resources—it's about relationships, respect, and respon...

In honor of National Historic Preservation Month, we talk story with SHPD’s Jessica Puff and Susan Lebo about protecting Hawaiʻi’s cultural treasures—from Lahaina’s historic structures to iwi kūpuna. Discover why preservation matters, how you can get involved, and what makes Hawaiʻi’s heritage so unique. As our theme music by Kawika Kahiapo says: Preserve what we have. It’s our future.

In this episode of Hawaii Conservation Kuleana, DOCARE Chief Jason Redulla shares his personal journey, from growing up in Kalihi to leading Hawaii’s Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement. Chief Redulla provides an insider’s look into the vital work of DOCARE officers, their role in protecting Hawaii’s natural and cultural resources, and the challenges they face on the front lines of conservation law enforcement. Learn about the critical issues facing the division, including ille...

In this episode of Hawaii Conservation Kuleana, we sit down with Meghan Statts, the Administrator, and Todd Tashima, the Assistant Administrator, of the DLNR Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation (DOBOR). Join us for an engaging conversation about the challenges and opportunities DOBOR faces, including staffing shortages, emerging water sports, and the ongoing effort to maintain and improve Hawaii's harbor facilities. Learn about the work being done behind the scenes to ensure a sust...

Join us for a conversation with the leadership of the Division of State Parks: Administrator Curt Cottrell and Assistant Administrator Alan Carpenter. Cottrell and Carpenter share their career journeys that brought them to the Division. Learn the backstory of managing Hawaiʻi state parks and the significant community partnerships that help protect our precious cultural sites.

Our first episode of Hawaiʻi Conservation Kuleana features the top leadership of the Hawaii DLNR, Chair Dawn Chang and First Deputy Ryan Kanakaʻole. Hear about their roles at DLNR, the experiences that have shaped them throughout their careers and what inspires them to be leaders in the community.

Step into the heart of Hawaiʻi’s most pressing environmental and cultural conversations with Hawaiʻi Conservation Kuleana, hosted by the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR). In each episode, we explore the intricate balance of conservation and community, diving deep into the challenges, triumphs, and innovative strategies shaping Hawaiʻi’s land, waters, and heritage. With topics ranging from climate resilience and wildlife preservation to cultural stewardship and community engagem...