Hilo Watershed Forest Reserve

The Hilo Watershed Forest Reserve, located on Daniel K. Inouye Highway in Hilo, Hawaii, is a stunning park and tourist attraction managed by the Division of Forestry and Wildlife's Forestry Program. Covering approximately 64,000 acres of public land, this reserve was established in 1905 for the purpose of watershed protection. The reserve consists of nine sections in northeast Hawaii, with the Laupāhoehoe section recently included in the Laupāhoehoe Forest Management Plan.

Situated on the lush windward slopes of Mauna Kea, the Laupāhoehoe Forest is a thriving native ecosystem with a rich cultural history. Managed by the state of Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, this forest includes both Forest Reserve and Natural Area Reserve parcels, totaling over 12,000 acres. It also serves as a demonstration forest for the Hawaii Experimental Tropical Forest, providing opportunities for research and learning about tropical forest management.

In addition to protecting watersheds and native species, the Laupāhoehoe Forest Reserve offers recreational activities such as hiking, traditional practices, and hunting. A comprehensive management plan has been developed for the area, outlining goals and actions for the next fifteen years. Visitors to the Hilo Watershed Forest Reserve can immerse themselves in the beauty of Hawaii's natural landscapes while learning about the importance of conservation and sustainable forest management.