Maui residents are being called to actively voice their thoughts on a new environmental strategy that's all about trees, grass, and green spaces in urban areas. The County of Maui Department of Management is setting the stage for a discussion on the development of the Maui County Urban Forest Management Plan. This initiative, brought to public attention through the County of Maui announcement, could shape the future of local green spaces, aiming to amplify their benefits like reducing heat and supporting wildlife.
The meeting itself is scheduled for Thursday, June 5, at 9:00 a.m., where stakeholders can come together, not just to listen to but to actively input on the planning process. Set to take place within the County Council’s Agriculture, Diversification, Environment, and Public Transportation Committee, this open call for community engagement wants to lay down the groundwork for the urban forestry plan. With a final plan expected by January 2027, it's clear that the county plans to thoroughly grow the project, not just hastily to throw something into the soil and hope it takes root, as reported by the County of Maui.
Karen Comcowich, County of Maui planner, along with Kimberly Thayer from SR Partners LLC—the contractor involved—will be presenting concepts for the upcoming management plan. These efforts will be backed by both state and federal funds, specifically from the Kaulunani Urban and Community Forestry Program and the United States Department of Agriculture Urban and Community Forestry.
Perhaps what's most interesting is that this isn't just some isolated tree-hugging affair. Gov. Josh Green initiated the move early this year by declaring 2025 as the Year of Our Community Forests. This was mirrored by subsequent proclamations from Mayor Richard Bissen and the Maui County Council. For those interested in attending the session or wanting a deeper dive into the plan, details and an agenda can be found on the County of Maui website, and for those hoping to get in touch directly, Karen Comcowich is the point of contact.
