Koa trees in lower puna

[Mitzi M]

Thanks! I found the article which was printed July 19th in the Tribune Herald.

http://www.hawaiitribune-herald.com/arti...ogcomments

Apparently Mr. Dong of Koa Timber Inc. has been trying to get his permit since 2000. I found it interesting that the article also reports the company was fined for illegally logging 135 koa trees on conservation lands in 2004. Apparently county Planning Director, Chris Yuen and many other local environmental activists have been opposed to Koa Timber's ongoing attempt to get a permit. The article also names a Big Island businessman affiliated with the project. It's always good to keep up with what is happening in your neighborhood, yeah? If I understand correctly, the applicant will now have to provide a more thorough environmental impact statement, allow time for the state
to review the application, and then hold a public hearing in Hilo. While the thought of a permit being issued is really scary, I am glad to see that, at least at this point, the checks and balances of the review process seem to be working and the state seems to be taking it seriously.