Do You Love Hawaii? Become a Member of the Hawaiian Islands Land Trust

Hawaii’s natural resources are treasured by residents and visitors from around the world. Snorkeling along the beautiful coastlines, walking through nature, shoreline fishing, or perhaps just a great day at the beach are just a few activities that we are blessed to experience here in Hawaii. If you love Hawaii, becoming a member or donating to the Hawaiian Islands Land Trust is one simple thing you can do to help protect our beautiful islands.

For years, Hawaii’s natural resources and open space have been protected by multiple land trusts such as Kauai Public Land Trust, Oahu Land Trust, Maui Coastal Land Trust, and Hawaiian Islands Land Trust (HILT). In order to to keep up with the development, in 2011 the four trusts merged into a statewide land conservancy trust known today as the Hawaiian Islands Land Trust, a local 501(3). In August of 2014, HILT became the first nationally accredited land trust in Hawaii and is one of 280 that is now accredited by the Land Trust Accreditation Commission.

Hana Ranch | Photo Courtesy of Hawaiian Island Land Trust

With a simple mission “to protect the lands that sustain us for current and future generations,” HILT is doing just that, one island at a time. HILT efforts to protect and conserve archeological sites, native forests, and open space is vital to preserving Hawaii’s beauty and its lifestyle. This incredible organization has achieved protecting some of the most magical places in Hawaii for future generations. Not only are the lands protected, HILT is successfully converting land into public preserves for our communities to enjoy.

Pulitzer Prize-Winning Poet and Land W.S. Merwin and Wife Paula Merwin Support HILT

Get Involved

If you currently own land on any of the Hawaiian Islands that you wish to protect for future generations, you may be eligible for tax benefits. According to HILT’s website, there are many ways to implement a land protection agreement, and HILT is prepared to work with your tax advisors and lawyers to create an outcome that is tailored to your needs.

17.63-Acre Beach Preserve, Kahili Beach | Photo Courtesy of HILT

There are many ways for you to get involved with HILT via donations or volunteering. The organization offers annual memberships starting at just $25. By becoming a member, you can help HILT “succeed our time-sensitive land conservation mission for the lasting benefit of our beloved Hawaii.” If you need a last-minute gift for the holidays, you may want to consider buying a membership to the Hawaiian Islands Land Trust.

For more information, please visit their website.