The Native Ecosystems Protection & Management Program (NEPM) at DLNR Forestry & Wildlife is responsible for protecting Hawaiʻi’s most unique ecosystems and species. NEPM manages the Natural Area Reserves System and oversees several programs dedicated to conservation of native species including rare plants, kāhuli (tree snails), and other native invertebrates. Click on the links below to learn more.

Natural Area Reserve System

An image of a NAR linking to a page called Explore the NARS

An image of Hanawi NAR linking to Donate to the NARS

An image of a NAR linking to a page called NARS Permits

An image of a NAR linking to a page called NARS Commission

NEPM Program Areas

In addition to managing the Natural Area Reserves System, NEPM program staff work statewide to protect unique native species and to develop public-private partnerships to protect important conservation lands including watersheds and lands with ecological, historical, and/or cultural value.

An image of a plant linking to a page called Rare Plant Program
An image of a damselfly linking to a page called Hawaiʻi Invertebrate Program
An image of a tree snail linking to a page called Snail Extinction Prevention Program
An image of a waterfall linking to a page called Watershed Partnerships Program
An image of a forest and stream linking to a page called Legacy Land Conservation Program
An image of a plant linking to a page called Natural Areas Partnership Program