Recognizing 2026 As The International Year Of Rangelands And Pastoralists In Hawaii.
Impact
HCR31 encourages various state agencies and educational institutions to engage in educational and outreach activities focused on rangeland management. By promoting such initiatives, the resolution aims to foster sustainable practices that benefit not only the environment but also the livelihoods of ranchers and pastoralists in Hawaii. Moreover, the resolution seeks to align Hawaii's commitment with the international community in recognizing the importance of rangelands as sustainable resources for food, fiber, and ecological health.
Summary
House Concurrent Resolution 31 (HCR31) recognizes the year 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists in Hawaii. This resolution highlights the significance of rangelands, which are ecosystems dominated by grasses and other vegetation, and covers a substantial portion of the Earth's surface. In Hawaii, over 1,000,000 acres are classified as rangelands, serving vital ecological, economic, and cultural roles within the state. The resolution aims to create awareness and appreciation of these lands and the communities that benefit from them.
Contention
While HCR31 is largely supportive and recognizes the contributions of ranchers and pastoralists to Hawaii's economy and culture, it reflects broader discussions around land management and agricultural practices. There may be differing opinions regarding the extent to which policies should prioritize agricultural practices, environmental conservation, and traditional livelihoods like those of Hawaii's Paniolo (cowboys). As the resolution encourages the adoption of supportive policies, the balance between development and conservation will likely be an important aspect of future discussions.
Reaffirming The State's Obligation To Uphold The Constitutional Rights Of Its People By Recognizing The Critical Role Of Freshwater In Maintaining Healthy Nearshore Marine Ecosystems.
Encouraging The Kawaihuelani Center For Hawaiian Language Of The University Of Hawaii At Manoa To Further Provide Learning Resources And Opportunities That Promote Hawaiian Language And Culture.
Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Transfer Active Agricultural Land Leases Under The Jurisdiction Of The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To The Department Of Agriculture To Support Agriculture In The State.
Reaffirming The State's Obligation To Uphold The Constitutional Rights Of Its People By Recognizing The Critical Role Of Freshwater In Maintaining Healthy Nearshore Marine Ecosystems.
Encouraging The Kawaihuelani Center For Hawaiian Language Of The University Of Hawaii At Manoa To Further Provide Learning Resources And Opportunities That Promote Hawaiian Language And Culture.
Urging Congress, The Counties Of The State, And Other Relevant Agencies To Provide Increased And Sustained Funding To The Invasive Species Committees And Hawaii Ant Lab Within The Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit Of The University Of Hawaii At Mnoa.
Congratulating The 2024 Hawaii Principal Of The Year, 2024 National Outstanding Assistant Principal, 2024 Hawaii Assistant Principal Of The Year, 2024 Masayuki Tokioka Excellence In School Leadership Awardee, And 2025 Hawaii School Counselor Of The Year.
Urging The State To Consider The Importance Of Rangelands And Pastoralists And Adopt Policies That Further Sustain Rangeland Health And Pastoralist Livelihoods.