Balancing the military mission, cultural preservation, and the environment.
The Navy has managed and utilized Ka‘ula Island for training activities since 1952. For the past 44 years, only inert (non-explosive) ordnance has been authorized during aviation training activities, which are limited to the southernmost 1,000 feet of the island (8% of the total land area).
After extensive consultations with the Hawai‘i State Historic Preservation Officer, Office of Hawaiian Affairs, and consulting parties, including Native Hawaiian Organizations, the Navy has identified Ka‘ula Island as eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places as a traditional cultural place under the National Historic Preservation Act. The Navy has begun development of a memorandum of agreement and consultations are ongoing with the aim of developing an agreement that includes measures to minimize or mitigate adverse effects on the historic property. During this process, no training on Ka‘ula Island is expected. If training becomes necessary, it will require approval from Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
Before sailing to the waters around Ka‘ula Island, please check the Coast Guard’s website for any relevant Notice to Mariners. For additional details on how the Navy manages this remarkable island, click here.
