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U.S. Department of Energy
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Protection of Hawaii's native wildlife during geothermal energy development

Thesis/Dissertation ·
OSTI ID:5916564
Hawaii possesses unique wildlife and unique geothermal energy resources, and these attributes have recently come into conflict. In 1983, the Hawaii State Legislature passed the Geothermal Subzone Act, which specified that geothermal development in the state would be restricted to subzones demonstrating minimum adverse impacts. Assessment of native wildlife value was undertaken as part of the subzone designation process. Endangered species presence was used as an index of the value of areas to native fauna, and a forest categorized system was developed as an index of native flora importance. Large biologically unimportant areas were identified, but one subzone was placed in prime native forest and endangered species habitat, an apparent violation of the intent of the legislature.
Research Organization:
California Univ., Los Angeles (USA)
OSTI ID:
5916564
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English