DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

News Release

LINDA LINGLE

GOVERNOR

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PETER T. YOUNG, CHAIRPERSON

Phone: (808) 587-0401

Fax: (808) 587-0390

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For Immediate Release: January 30, 2007

DLNR Opens The Realigned Puakea Bay Trail

KOHALA -- The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) has opened to the public a realigned section of the Puakea Bay trail along the north Kohala coastline.

The trail alignment followed a coastal cliff that was weakened by the October 15, 2006 earthquake.

After consultation with DLNR’s geologist, trails staff from DLNR’s Division of Forestry and Wildlife created two new trail sections - 25 feet and 50 feet long, respectively – further inland, that connect to the original alignment.

Warning signs have been posted to inform hikers to stay mauka of a section of the ancient footpath due to its potential instability and possible collapse.

Access to the Puakea Bay trail section is possible via the Old Coast Guard Road at mile marker 19 in Kohala. For more information call the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife Na Ala Hele Trails and Access Program on the Big Island at (808) 974-4217.

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