 Ulupalakua Ranch(click images for larger view)  Ulupalakua Ranch: Pastures Aerial (Photo by Bob Bangerter) November 29, 2009 -- Ulupalakua, Maui, Hawai'i: Maui Coastal Land Trust and the Erdman family, owners of Ulupalakua Ranch, are proud to announce a historic land preservation agreement ensuring over 11,000 acres along the leeward slopes of Haleakala will continue as a working ranch and wildlife habitat. Although the purpose of this perpetual easement is to assure the lands are always protected for agricultural uses, a corollary benefit is the permanent protection of one of Maui's most iconic views: the rolling green hills of Ulupalakua. This is the largest-ever voluntary easement donation in the state of Hawai`i. The agriculture easement agreements apply to two large contiguous parcels, including an approximate 6,000 acres on the western slopes of the ranch, mauka of the highway and extending from ranch headquarters up to the boundary of Poli Poli State Park. This area is primarily used for livestock grazing, farming and agri-farming. The second parcel consists of the entire `Auwahi ahupua`a, a 5,328 rectangular parcel running lengthwise from the ocean shore up the mountain to 6,000 ft. elevation. The mauka portion of this ahupua`a is home to the `Auwahi Habitat Restoration Project, and is part of the Leeward Haleakala Watershed Restoration Partnership. The vision to safeguard their family-run ranching operation and the perpetuity of Ulupalakua's natural areas and open vistas drove the Erdman's decision to form this agreement with Maui Coastal Land Trust. "Fifty years ago I was surveying the island for development sights when I ended up in Wailea and had the chance to look up to see the marvelous green hills of Ulupalakua. Little did I know I'd be saving it someday," reflects Pardee Erdman, owner of Ulupalakua Ranch. With this addition, Maui Coastal Land Trust, the first land trust in Hawai`i to become nationally accredited, now oversees nearly 15,000 acres of protected lands on Maui and Molokai. "It is both humbling and inspiring to work with families like the Erdmans who have such a strong love for the land," says MCLT executive director Dale Bonar. "For all generations to come, the people of Maui will benefit thanks to their vision and what has been accomplished with this historic land preservation agreement."  Rolling green hills of Ulupalakua Ranch above Kihei and Wailea. (Photo by Bob Bangerter) Ulupalakua Ranch: Aerial of the Auwahi Ahupuaa (Photo by Bob Bangerter) Related Media CoverageKGMB News video on Ulupalakua Ranch Ulupalakua donation A selfless act benefits us all Maui creates Hawaii's largest conservation easement Ranch's gift will preserve 11,300 acres of Haleakala slopes for agricultural use Maui ranch agrees to historic land deal Ulupalakua acres to stay open land |
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