Communication No. 2017-04- Open Space Network Subcommittee Report November

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Communication no. 2017-04 Page 6 • Erosion and runoff of soils, pollutants and biological hazards • Wildfire • Tsunami • Sea level rise leading to coastal erosion or subsidence • Rising temperatures, humidity and heat index • Strong winds Example strategies to mitigate conflict between built infrastructure and natural processes: • Buffers between incompatible land use such as sensitive coastal and riparian water resources • Buffers around native ecosystem areas • Natural corridors that allow movement of species across the landscape • Natural hazard or climate change no build zones and buffers • Site level design to minimize impervious surface areas; incorporate rainfall capture through bioswales or collection for later irrigation use, etc. • Keyline contour swales in flood areas that overlap with greenway corridors to reduce runoff volume and increase infiltration Examples of ecosystem services provided by green infrastructure and planting of appropriate native or hardy non-invasive trees and vegetation: • Flood control by intercepting, filtering and storing water in natural aquifers (e.g. increase tree canopy cover and infiltration potential) • Reduced erosion and stormwater/pollutant runoff (e.g. using bioswales) thus minimizing harm to ocean reefs and human health • Soil formation and retention • Shade, cooling and windbreaks for enhanced livability and energy conservation • Improved air and water quality • Noise reduction • Traffic calming • Improved psychological health • Conversion of carbon dioxide to oxygen and storage of carbon (climate change mitigation) • Beautification, aesthetics and increased property values Examples of benefits from integrating native plants in the open space network: • Links remaining fragments of native ecosystems (dry forest, coastal) via corridors to enhance biodiversity, overall health and long-term sustainability • Mitigate threat of extinction for Hawaii's endangered native flora and fauna species • Provide wildlife habitat and corridors for safe migration • Conserve community character and heritage • Provide support for Hawaiian cultural practices (e.g. subsistence or gathering) • Provide public educational opportunities to interact with nature and learn about native species