Commission approves koa reforestation lease with amended fee; staff to provide annual progress reports

The Commission approved a land management proposal to issue a lease for reforestation and commercial koa harvesting on DHHL land in Hainamoʻona.

Linda Chin, acting administrator for the Land Management Division, presented the submittal seeking a 10‑year lease (with extension options) to Nakupa Okuhio / Na Kupaʻang for a reforestation and commercial harvest program. Presenters described the project as a restoration‑first model that uses commercial koa harvest revenue to fund fencing, ungulate removal, invasive species control and replanting work intended to increase koa abundance and sustain land stewardship by beneficiaries.

Commissioners pressed staff on the per‑board‑foot compensation rate: the submittal referenced a historical $11 per board foot value, but staff and the project team indicated current market conditions supported a reduced rate. Neil Henner (project proponent) and Nick (project partner, surname not specified in the record) explained the market and proposed a reopener provision for renegotiation at the lease extension point. The Commission amended the per‑board‑foot fee on the floor from $11 to $8 to reflect current market comparables and approved the amended motion. Staff agreed to provide an annual progress report to the Commission, covering harvest volumes, replanting and reinvestment of revenues.

Supporters emphasized local jobs, cultural reconnection and the long‑term ecological benefits of managed koa stands; one commissioner framed the project as a way to create a local wood products industry that could supply construction materials for future DHHL homes. Opposition was not recorded in the public remarks that followed the presentation. The motion as amended carried and staff said it would return annual progress updates when the Commission meets in Hilo.