Maunakea Stewardship Discussions Could Reshape Land Use Rules for Landowners and Investors
Public input forums across the Hawaiian Islands have commenced, signaling a potential shift in how Maunakea is managed. These discussions, led by the Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority in partnership with Kua o Wākea, may result in new regulations or operational frameworks that could influence land use planning, development permits, and investment strategies in areas surrounding the mountain.
The Change
Beginning January 15, 2026, the Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority (MKSOA) is hosting a series of 10 community workshops island-wide. The primary objective is to gather public input on the stewardship of Maunakea. This process is crucial as it forms the basis for future management plans and potentially new policies governing land use, access, and development on and around the sacred mountain. While no immediate regulatory changes are in effect, the insights gathered will inform MKSOA's strategic direction and operational guidelines. The workshops are scheduled to run throughout the first half of 2026, with their cumulative output expected to shape policy discussions into 2027 and beyond.
Who's Affected
Real Estate Owners
Owners of property in proximity to Maunakea, including developers and landlords, should be aware that future stewardship decisions could lead to modified zoning regulations or expanded conservation easements. This may impact their ability to develop, subdivide, or alter existing land use. Any plans for new construction or significant property modifications should consider the potential for increased scrutiny and new permit requirements, especially for land classified as culturally significant or environmentally sensitive. The timeline for obtaining development permits could also lengthen if new review processes are introduced.
Investors
For investors, particularly those focused on real estate development, land banking, or sectors that rely on proximity to or infrastructure on Maunakea (such as certain types of research or tourism), these discussions represent key horizon scanning. Future land use policies could alter the risk-reward profile of existing or potential investments. Changes in land availability or access could affect property valuations and the viability of long-term projects. Investors should pay close attention to any proposed restrictions on development, water usage, or infrastructure expansion that could have a material impact on their portfolios.
Agriculture & Food Producers
Agricultural producers and food businesses in the vicinity of Maunakea, including those involved in farming, ranching, or aquaculture, may be affected by decisions regarding land use and water resource management. Stewardship plans could potentially reclassify land, impacting agricultural zoning or access to water rights. While Maunakea itself is not a primary agricultural area, adjacent lands and the watershed it influences are critical. Any shifts in land management on the mountain could have downstream effects on water availability and land management policies for surrounding agricultural operations. Such changes might necessitate adaptive strategies for cultivation and resource allocation.
Second-Order Effects
Discussions around Maunakea's stewardship, particularly concerning land use and water management, could trigger a cascade of economic adjustments. Restrictions on land development or increased environmental protections could indirectly influence available land for housing on the island of Hawaii. This reduction in housing supply, combined with ongoing tourism pressures, could further exacerbate existing housing affordability issues. Consequently, businesses may face increased labor costs as employees struggle with a higher cost of living and longer commutes, potentially impacting profit margins and the viability of certain service-industry operations or agricultural enterprises requiring a stable workforce.
What to Do
This situation requires a WATCH approach. No immediate action is mandated, but vigilance is advised throughout the workshop series and subsequent policy development phases.
Real Estate Owners
Monitor the Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority website for schedules and summaries of community workshops. Review current development plans and recent land acquisitions for any potential overlaps with areas likely to be subject to new stewardship guidelines. Begin preliminary inquiries with county planning departments regarding the potential for future land use changes that could affect your holdings.
Investors
Track public commentary and official statements emerging from the MKSOA workshops. Analyze how proposed stewardship frameworks might impact the value and operational feasibility of real estate or development projects in the affected regions. Consider integrating potential land use changes into your risk assessment models for any investments in or around the island of Hawaii. Be prepared to re-evaluate investment theses if significant regulatory shifts are signaled.
Agriculture & Food Producers
Engage with local agricultural associations to stay informed about discussions impacting water rights and land use policies related to Maunakea's watershed. Understand how potential stewardship changes could affect water allocation or land availability for farming and ranching operations. If significant changes appear likely, explore alternative water sources or land use strategies proactively.
