“Visitors from all over the world continue to choose Hawaii as a premier travel destination to experience the natural beauty of our islands and the aloha spirit of our people,” said Mike McCartney, HTA's president and chief executive officer. “HTA remains committed to supporting product development initiatives that showcase Hawaii's unique tourism product.”

HTA's Natural Resources Program began in 2002 in response to a legislative mandate, stated within Chapter 201B of the Hawaii Revised Statutes that directs the HTA to provide at least US$1 million annually to assist projects and programs that support efforts to manage, improve, and protect Hawaii's natural environment and areas frequented by visitors.

Projects selected must also aim to address the goal identified in the Hawaii Tourism Strategic Plan: 2005-2015 (TSP) for the Natural Resources Strategic Initiative: “to respect, enhance, and perpetuate Hawaii's natural resources to ensure a high level of satisfaction for residents and visitors.” Programs were chosen by the HTA with guidance from its Natural Resources Advisory Group (NRAG).

The Hawaii Tourism Authority was created in 1998 to ensure a successful visitor industry well into the future. Its mission is to strategically manage Hawaii tourism in a sustainable manner consistent with its economic goals, cultural values, preservation of natural resources, community desires, and visitor industry needs. For more information, please visit www.hawaiitourismauthority.org .