HomeMy WebLinkAboutJay Hatayam, DLNR, Division of Forestry & Wildlife.pdfName of agency/organization: DLNR/Div of Forestry & Wildlife
Contact person/phone/email: Jay Hatayam
Thank you for taking the time to answer these questions.
1. In your experience, how prevalent is the issue of squatting and adverse possession?
It is somewhat prevalent in various forest reserves around the island, particularly with
people clearing sections of the forest reserve to extend their yards. There is some
squatting in the forest reserve system, but often goes undetected due to the remoteness of
the forest.
2. In what communities and districts do squatting and adverse possession appear most
prominent?
Puna, Kona, South Kona.
3. When you receive notice or a complaint about these situations, what is your normal
course of action?
DOFAW will investigate the complaint with the help of Div of Conservation and
Resource Enforcement (DOCARE). If found to be in violation, DOCARE will determine
if criminal charges can be filed.
4. What kinds of complications have arisen in the past that have prevented a successful
resolution of the situation?
Disputes over location of forest reserve boundaries. Lack of signage.
5. For those situations that have been successfully resolved, please describe what happened.
6. What happens when you contact or try to contact the owner of record?
They normally cease their activities once DOCARE gets involved.
7. What solutions would you recommend?
Enforcement of laws in place to the fullest extent to prevent it from happening again in
the future.
8. Are there any other comments you would like to make?