LIHU'E, Kaua'i — The state Department of Land and Natural Resources will host an informal public discussion June 10 on the use of stand-up paddleboards in Kaua'i ocean waters.

The DLNR's Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation will hold the meeting at Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School Cafeteria from 7 to 8 p.m.

The meeting is the first of what might be several such gatherings, the department said.

"The department encourages all interested parties to provide their perspective on managing this resource in a way that is fair for all users," DLNR Chairwoman Laura H. Thielen said in a news release.

"In the past few years the popularity of stand-up paddle boarding on Kaua'i, as well as other islands, has grown dramatically," Thielen said. "The number of complaints we receive about conflicts between stand-up paddlers and surfers, particularly in Hanalei and the west side of Kaua'i, has grown proportionately."

At O'ahu's Ala Moana beach park, stand-up paddlers and swimmers agreed to zones marked by buoys for the two sports, DLNR Boating Administrator Ed Underwood said.

"Although the issue of stand-up paddling in the lagoon at Ala Moana and paddling into a surf break seems quite different, the (Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation) feels the key to resolving the issues of these two distinct scenarios is very similar. It will require discussions over time and a great deal of cooperation from all parties to insure that all ocean users have fair access to our ocean waters," Underwood said in the release.

People with special needs who want to attend the Kaua'i meeting are asked to contact Joe Borden at 808-245-8028 at least one week before the meeting.