SPP 12-143 Paradise Helicopters - Laserfiche WebLink

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Paradise Helicopters Special Permit Application In terms of seismic risk, the entire Island of Hawaii is rated Zone 4, Seismic Probability Rating (Uniform Building Code, Appendix Chapter 25, Section 2518). Zone 4 areas are at risk from major earthquake damage, especially to poorly-designed or -built structures. Surrounding Lands All lands within the Royal Gardens Subdivision surrounding the subject property to the north, south and east are zoned Agricultural 1 -acre. These lands are vacant or used for single-family residences. The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which is in the State Conservation District is adjacent and to the west of the subject property. Please see the vicinity map. Flora, Fauna and Archaeology Resources Flora The vegetation of the general Royal Gardens site can best be classified as a kipuka of `Ohi'a Lowland Mesic Forest (Gagne and Cuddihy 1990). It consists of an open canopy of sparse native forest dominated by 'ohi'a trees (Metrosideros polymorpha) between 10 and 30 feet high, with some larger 'Individuals. A biological reconnaissance of the area in July 2011 *Indicated that, like many mesic forests, it is diverse, with a variety of native shrubs including alahe "e (Psydrax odoratum), 'akia (Wikstroemia sp.), 'ulei (Osteorneles anthyllidifolia), "a "ali i i (Dodonea viscosa), and pukiawe (Leptecopliylla tameiameiae), as well as several species of native ferns, sedges and vines. This forest has been overrun by lava flows over the course of several decades and has been greatly reduced in size. The integrity of the forest has been compromised by subdivision into roughly one acre lots, with homes on some of the properties and roads throughout. As a result, it is highly invaded in most areas by the region's dominant invasive species as well as other non- natives, including most notably guava (Psidium guajava), Christmas berry ('cbinus terebinthifolius), butterfly bush (Buddleia asiatica), Desmodium spp., white shrimp plant (Justicia betonica), Melochia umbellata, and lantana (Lantana camara). A wide variety of non-invasive non-native plants that were brought in for food or ornamental purposes are also present. No streams, lakes or wetlands are present or would be affected in any way by the project. 7