Friday, November 14, 2008

NATURAL BEAUTY

NATURAL BEAUTY

INTRODUCTION AND ANALYSIS

The natural beauty of Hawaii is a universally recognized characteristic and [as such is] one of [our] the most significant and valuable assets[.] of this island. In a relatively small area exists a great range of environments, from lush green tropical valleys to snow-capped mountains. [This diversity enhances the liveability of the island by providing a preference of physical settings.]

Hawaii's natural and scenic beauty is the [manifestation] result of the [interplay] interaction of various physical elements and forces. Three primary factors contribute to the variety of environments: elevation, relative location, and geologic origin and age. A further factor is modification by man. The types of landform and vegetation depend on these basic factors. Due to different elevations and locations of the island, the landscape features have particular characteristics. These include barren fields of lava, heavily vegetated valleys, kiawe deserts, native forests, rolling grasslands, and rocky coastlines. The differences in the environment and the landscape features are important in giving identity to areas of the island and [in supporting man made elements.] enhances the livability of the island by providing a preference of physical settings.

[As a resource, natural] Natural beauty [has many aspects.] is a multifaceted resource. It is an aesthetic resource experienced by human perceptions. [Natural and scenic beauty has] It is an economic [ramifications,] resource, as evidenced by the scale of resort development and by visitor related activities. Real property values [also] further substantiate the economic value of Hawaii's dramatic beauty. [The comparison of a shoreline or mountain home with a panoramic view to a home across the street; or a condominium overlooking mountains and ocean as to a view of a neighboring condominium reflects the importance of scenic beauty. Another aspect is that the] The physical elements [which] that make up the landscape and the interrelationships of these elements are also of scientific interest. Investigating and understanding the physical environment are necessary [in order] for man to live in [balance] harmony with [it and not destroy it.] the environment.

As the population increases, the desire to experience natural beauty will continue and may increase. If uncontrolled, the development necessary to accommodate an increasing population as well as resort development could have detrimental effects on the natural beauty of the island. Areas with special amenities of natural beauty have been and will continue to be the focus of pressure for resort development. Present regulatory process provide an assessment of impacts of development projects in order to protect, preserve and restore natural and scenic resources. [However, planning decisions lack standard methods for assessing aesthetic values and evaluating impacts. The cost of restoring or regaining natural beauty is greater than the cost of protecting it.]


Hawaii's natural beauty is both an irreplaceable asset and [an asset that is] a part of the public trust. It is fragile and although often enhanced by man can easily be adversely affected. Measures must be taken to insure its protection, both now and in the future, for the enjoyment of Hawaii's residents and visitors.

Through the Zoning and Subdivision [ordinances,] codes, and the Special Management Area and shoreline setback regulations, the County of Hawaii has the means to protect the island's natural and scenic beauty as an integral part of the living environment of the island. Safeguards of this valuable asset are a major consideration [of] for any construction or development [which] that may alter, eliminate, or intrude upon it. They are also important so that man-made elements are kept in an aesthetic perspective with the physical surroundings.

The County Arborist Advisory Committee was established to determine guidelines to identify the physical and botanical importance of trees and tree masses on the island. Criteria such as the aesthetic quality, rarity, cultural significance and endemic status are evaluated in designating exceptional trees or tree masses. Preservation for those selected are enacted by County ordinance or regulation.

The Hawaii County Planning Department adopted Rule 17 that implements landscaping requirements. The purpose of the rule is to use landscaping requirements to create screens and buffers from noise, lights, and litter; moderate the visual impact and microclimates of paved parking lots and parked vehicles; enhance the street scape of commercial and industrial areas; and promote ecological and cultural values through landscaping with native and other appropriate plants.

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