COM 0042.061 2004-2006 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

thousands of additional acres being planned. Dozens of landowners within the County are currently involved with the commercial production of forest products, both eucalyptus and higher value hardwoods such as toon, maple, and koa. A 1981 State Division of Forestry and Wildlife study identified approximately 80,000 acres of former sugarcane land as ideal for the establishment of a forest plantation. An additional 100,000 acres of pasture and brush lands were identified for longer-rotation forest plantations. The study concluded that there are ample lands available on the island to establish a forest plantation industry. GOALS • Provide residents with opportunities to improve their quality of life through economic development that enhances the County's natural and social environments. • Economic development and improvement shall be in balance with the physical, social, and cultural environments of the island of Hawaii. • Strive for diversity and stability in the economic system. • Provide an economic environment that allows new, expanded, or improved economic opportunities that are compatible with the County's cultural, natural and social environment. • Strive for an economic climate that provides its residents an opportunity for choice of occupation. • Strive for diversification of the economy by strengthening existing industries and attracting new endeavors. • Strive for full employment. • Promote and develop the island of Hawaii into a unique scientific and cultural model, where economic gains are in balance with social and physical amenities. Development should be reviewed on the basis of total impact on the residents of the County, not only in terms of immediate short run economic benefits. POLICIES • Assist in the expansion of the agricultural industry through the protection of important agricultural lands, development of marketing plans and programs, capital improvements and continued cooperation with appropriate State and Federal agencies. • Encourage the expansion of the research and development industry by working with and supporting the University of Hawaii at Hilo and West Hawaii, the Natural Energy Laboratory at Hawaii Authority and other agencies' programs that support sustainable economic development in the County of Hawaii. • Encourage the development of a visitor industry that is in harmony with the social, physical, and economic goals of the residents of the County. • Require a study of the significant cultural, social and physical impacts of large developments prior to approval. • Encourage the sustainable development of the fishing industry, various forms of aquaculture, and other fresh and sea water-based activities.