Nā Manu ‘Elele Statewide Land Steward Program

The Nā Manu ʻElele Trail Steward Program strengthens sustainable tourism by placing trained local stewards in Hawai‘i’s highest-use, most culturally and ecologically sensitive trail areas. Stewards educate visitors on cultural history, natural resources, safety, and proper trail etiquette - reducing impacts, preventing accidents, and protecting heritage sites. The program has delivered major benefits: safer hiking conditions, improved visitor behavior, preserved resources, reduced emergency responses and crime, and less congestion at popular trailheads, ensuring a high-quality, low-impact visitor experience.