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The Honolulu Advertiser
Updated at 7:53 p.m., Thursday, March 6, 2008

Maui's Kula Forest Reserve reopens tomorrow

Advertiser Staff

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources will reopen Maui's Kula Forest Reserve and Polipoli Springs State Park tomorrow at 6 a.m. for public recreational use.

The forest access road, the Polipoli State Park area and the majority of the Na Ala Hele trail system have been cleared of fallen trees, officials said. DLNR advises visitors to use established roads and open trails, which have been cleared of tree-fall hazards. The public is also advised to wear bright colors such as blaze orange for safety, because it is a hunting area.

"We appreciate the public's patience, understanding and support during the time the Kula forest has had to be closed due to damage from the December 2007 storm, and during our subsequent mitigation efforts," Laura H. Thielen, DLNR chairperson, said in a news release today.

Portions of the Mamane/Upper Waiohuli and Upper Waiakoa Trails, the Lower Waiohuli Trail, and Mamane Trail will remain closed as work continues to mitigate the tree-fall hazards. Cutting hazard trees along these trails was scheduled to start yesterday.

Bicycles will be limited to Skyline Trail, Waipoli Road and the Waiakoa Loop Trail.