Halt the 65-year lease renewal of Pōhakuloa by the United States (U.S.) Military.

The 65-year lease of Pōhakuloa Training Area (PTA) managed by the U.S. Army Garrison-Hawaiʻi (USAG-HI) expires on August 16, 2029. 

PTA encompasses roughly 132,000 acres. The State of Hawai‘i leases the land for $1.00 per year. PTA sits on 23,000 acres of Hawaiian Trust Land. 

Pōhakuloa is cradled between Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Hualālai on Hawai‘i Mokupuni (Big Island).

All branches of the military utilize PTA to conduct war game practices. These practices include (but are not limited to) the use of: white phosphorus, depleted uranium, maneuvers, ammunition, explosives, live fire (artillery and aviation), hazardous materials and waste. 

The Office of Conservation and Coastal Lands (OCCL) states that the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) produced by USAG-HI “does not contain any … restorative actions … such as reforestation and the cleanup of unexploded munitions and by-products, shells, and weapons decommissioning ...” 

As well as the direct effects imposed on the land, there is an increased level of concern for the endangered species located at PTA. Species that are found nowhere else in the world. The DEIS states that “not much is known about invertebrates” and that it is “unknown how [protected bird] species may use habitats in PTA”.  

The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) is unimpressed with the level of information provided by the USAG-HI. There are many “gaps” and no supporting data when discussing: archaeological sites, native flora and fauna, access and longevity of cultural practices for kānaka ʻōiwi (native people of Hawai‘i), and mitigation efforts. 

The U.S. Army has proven they are unable to properly care for Pōhakuloa. They have continuously desecrated our ‘āina (land) and have shown a lack of care for the health and welfare of the Lāhui (community). 

We must consider future ramifications as a result of current negligence. 

Sign this petition to show your support in STOPPING the lease renewal of Pōhakuloa by the U.S. Army Garrison-Hawaiʻi (USAG-HI) which expires on August 16, 2029.