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Pelekunu Preserve
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Pelekunu and Wailau valleys |
In 1986, the Conservancy purchased Pelekunu Valley from Moloka'i Ranch to create this spectacular preserve on Molokai's rugged northern coast.
Flanked by the highest sea cliffs in the world, which rise 3,000 feet above sea level, Pelekunu Valley is also protected by strong seasonal surf, making access very difficult.
For safety reasons, the Conservancy does not encourage public access to the preserve.
Size
5,759 acres
Why the Conservancy Selected This Site
The preserve's remote location has protected its lowland rainforest, verdant sea cliffs and one of Hawaii's last remaining free-flowing streams.
Pelekunu Stream contains nearly all of Hawaii's native aquatic fauna, including the rare hihiwai, a native freshwater snail, and five fish species collectively referred to as 'o'opu. With fused pelvic fins that form a suction cup, these tiny fish are among the most remarkable organisms in the world, able to scale sheer waterfalls and jump 25 to 30-foot rocks.
O'opu, Native Hawaiian goby.
© John Ford
What the Conservancy Has Done/Is Doing
The Conservancy protects the health of Pelekunu Stream through regular monitoring activities. We also work to protect the valley from the destructive impacts of invasive animals like goats and pigs, and harmful invasive weed species.
Pelekunu Preserve is managed in partnership with the State Department of Land & Natural Resources through the Natural Area Partnership Program.
Pelekunu Preserve is not open to the public due to its remote, rugged location.
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