Posted at 1:45 a.m., Tuesday, August 14, 2007
DLNR closes state trails, parks on Big Island
Advertiser Staff
All state parks, trails and forest and natural area reserves on the Big Island will be closed through Wednesday by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources because of expected high winds, falling trees, heavy rain and flash flooding from Hurricane Flossie.State park camping permits for today and Wednesday have been canceled and no new permits for Hawai'i island will be issued, DLNR officials said.
Permit holders have been notified by the Hilo DLNR Forestry and Wildlife office. No new permits will be issued for all forest reserves and natural area reserves on the Big Island.
"These closures are to protect members of the public and our personnel from potential severe weather conditions," said Laura H. Thielen, DLNR interim chairwoman. ... "We will reopen these areas on the Big Island as soon as the weather improves, and we can assess them for safe conditions."
DLNR also has notified boaters at all Big Island small boat harbors to be prepared and have a plan of action.
"As the storm approaches boaters may take safe refuge at Honokohau, Kawaihae and Wailoa small boat harbors," said Ed Underwood, DLNR Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation administrator.
Heavy rains often cause dangerous flash flooding in stream beds and can submerge low-lying campsites. Hikers should never attempt to ford rain swollen streams.
