The County's Preservation Program provides opportunities for stewardship grant funding to maintain properties purchased with the Preservation Fund. This special grant funding can be spent for maintenance, education, and other activities according to the Hawai'i County Charter. For students, teachers, and community partners, engaging in the importance of preservation reinforces cultural and native practices through education by allowing all those involved to actively participate in the program. 

The Hawaiian Nene (Branta sandvicensis) Goose is considered the world’s rarest goose. Mainly, the Nene inhabit shrubs and grasslands. But when they breed and nest, they can be found on the slopes of volcanoes and some lowland areas. Among all the native animals found in Hawaii, the Nene's have almost gone extinct, with only 30 individuals left. In 1957, they became the Hawaiian State Bird. By preserving grasslands from development and other constant threats such as non-native predators, habitat destruction, and vehicle collisions, we are hopeful this beautiful rare bird will grow in numbers. 

Click here for: Notice of Public Meeting, Agenda 

To access information regarding the Commission or the Preservation Program, please click here: Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Program.

Written Testimony:  The Commission encourages the public to submit thoughts, comments, and input via written testimony. To ensure timely delivery to its members prior to the meeting testimonies must be received no later than 12:00 noon (County time clock) on Thursday, March 9, 2023, by (1) email to ponctestimony@hawaiicounty.gov, (2) facsimile to (808) 961-8248; or (3) mail to the PONC Commission in Hilo at 25 Aupuni Street, Suite 1101, Hilo, Hawai‘i, 96720. Please submit separate testimony for each item.

VACANCIES: Beginning January 1, 2023, a vacancy in District 4. If interested, please apply here: Boards and Commission Application