An instream flow statute recognizes the value of water flows to protect several resources, including fish and wildlife and the natural environment. Status of Biodiversity Science Hawaii does not have a coordinated assessment system in place. A statewide assessment system, established by statute, covers mainly threatened and endangered animals. In addition, the state relies on its Natural Heritage Database and other species-specific state databases. GAP was scheduled to begin in 1995 but has been held up due to funding problems.
Monitoring is undertaken on state and federal lands, as well as some private lands.
Endangered Species Hawaii has an endangered species law that covers plants and animals. Listing is based on scientific and commercial data. Although the law requires recovery plans, no critical habitat designation or agency consultation requirement exists. Recovery plans focus on individual species. Efforts are currently underway to develop an incidental take process that would provide additional flexibility, funding sources and a habitat conservation planning process.