Governor Green announced Dawn Chang’s retirement as DLNR director effective July 1, with Ryan Kanakaʻole appointed as her replacement. The leadership change comes as DLNR continues overseeing wildfire recovery and natural resource management.
- Dawn Chang retires as DLNR chairperson and director effective July 1, 2026.
- Ryan Kanakaʻole, who has been acting director since December 2025, is appointed as the new permanent director.
- David Day will serve as first deputy director starting July 7.
- Chang’s tenure included guiding the department through wildfire recovery efforts and natural resource stewardship challenges.
- The new leadership brings legal expertise from the Attorney General’s office and experience with natural resource management.
Source: Hawaii Free Press
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