Why this tree protection law exists

The County Council finds that the General Plan for the island of Kaua'i has for its objective the improved quality of life for present and future generations of mankind. The plan recognizes the intrinsic beauty of the landscape and the need to protect scenic and historic resources so that the island will maintain its rural character and continue to attract vacationers and travelers. In order to better control problems of flooding and soil conservation and to maintain the concept of Kaua'i as the "Garden Isle" by ensuring that all physical growth is carried out so as to maintain the natural ecology, we believe this Article establishing protective regulations for certain exceptional and historical trees is a necessary and constructive approach toward achieving the General Plan's purpose and can be lived with more easily than a "blanket" tree ordinance.Changes in land use are inevitable, and changes will be made; however, the Council feels strongly that change must go hand in hand with concern for the environment, heritage, culture, aesthetics, and other similar concepts. In the belief that wisdom and careful planning will serve both ends, and having determined that these regulations will promote the health, safety and general welfare of the community and are in the best interest of the citizens of Kaua'i, the Council enacts this Article as a means of preserving the environmental character of Kaua'i.