Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge

Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge protects a wetland in the Hanalei River Valley on Kauaʻi’s north shore, established in 1972 to conserve endangered native plants and animals, especially Hawaiian waterbirds. Its broad valley floor, enclosed by steep wooded hillsides, supports a warm, wet landscape shaped by careful water management. Water diverted from the Hanalei River irrigates both taro fields and managed wetland habitat before returning to the river, linking traditional agriculture with conservation. The refuge is particularly important for five endangered Hawaiian waterbirds and also contains the Hoʻopulapula Haraguchi Rice Mill, where historic and environmental education programs are conducted.

Hanalei, Hawaii · United States