DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

News Release

LINDA LINGLE

GOVERNOR

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LAURA H. THIELEN, INTERIM CHAIRPERSON

Phone: (808) 587-0401

Fax: (808) 587-0390

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For Immediate Release: August 31, 2007

Labor Day Weekend Reminder From DLNR On Rules
For Public Use of State Parks, Forests
and Unencumbered Lands

HONOLULU — With the Labor Day weekend approaching, Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) is reminding the public about state laws in place to protect natural resources and public safety when enjoying state parks and beaches, unencumbered lands, forest reserves and nearshore waters.

“In Hawai‘i our year-round good weather allows enjoyment of our beaches, parks, forests and other wilderness areas. We encourage everyone to experience these natural areas, while remembering rules are in place to protect these places, and the public, from injury or damage,” said Laura H. Thielen, DLNR interim chairperson.

Consumption of alcohol is prohibited within all state parks, forest reserves, unencumbered lands and small boat harbors.

Ground and open fires are prohibited on all state beaches and state recreational areas.

Dumping of trash, driving on the beach, operating vehicles or motorcycles off designated roads and unauthorized camping are also prohibited.

Camping is allowed only by permit at designated state parks or forest areas. Camping is not permitted on other state unencumbered lands. Camping is defined as “remaining within a state park or on unencumbered state land while in possession of a sleeping bag, tent, tarpaulin, or other camping paraphernalia from one hour after sunset until sunrise.”

Over the Labor Day weekend, DLNR enforcement officers will be monitoring these state areas to ensure public safety and compliance with these rules. They will also make spot checks at locations statewide to ensure that all boats, personal water craft and kayaks are equipped with required safety equipment onboard, and that gear is operational and up to date. Officers will also inspect for overloading, DUI and other rules and regulations established by DLNR and Coast Guard.

For more information or to report a violation, call 643-DLNR, which is the 24-hour call-in hotline.

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For more information, contact:
Deborah Ward, DLNR Public Information Office
Phone: (808) 587-0320