The Best Ecosystem services in Hilo, Hawaii

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.

Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, located at 60 Nowelo Street in Hilo, Hawaii, is a park and tourist attraction dedicated to protecting and managing endangered Hawaiian forest birds and their rainforest habitat. Established in 1985, the Refuge spans 32,733 acres on the windward slope of Mauna Kea, supporting a diverse array of native birds and plants. The Refuge is currently closed to self-guided activities due to concerns about Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death, a disease that has devastated mature ʻōhiʻa trees in the region. The Refuge is seeking public comments on the draft environmental assessment to adopt the 2021 Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge Station Master Plan, which includes proposed facility and infrastructure improvements to enhance conservation efforts. Visitors are encouraged to provide feedback via email or mail. The Refuge system is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, with a focus on wildlife conservation and habitat protection.

The Upper Waiakea Forest Reserve is a stunning natural park and tourist attraction located in Hilo, Hawaii, United States. This lush and expansive reserve is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including native Hawaiian plants and wildlife. Visitors can explore the reserve's hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic viewpoints, offering a peaceful retreat into nature. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, outdoor adventurer, or simply looking to relax and unwind, the Upper Waiakea Forest Reserve is a must-visit destination in Hawaii.