Governor Green announced Dawn Chang will retire as DLNR director on July 1, with Ryan Kanakaʻole appointed as her replacement and David Day as first deputy.
- Dawn Chang retires as DLNR chairperson effective July 1, 2026, after leading wildfire recovery efforts.
- Ryan Kanakaʻole, who has been acting director since December 2025, will become permanent chairperson.
- David Day will serve as first deputy director starting July 7, 2026.
- Both new appointees are attorneys with experience in state government and environmental protection.
- DLNR oversees Hawaii’s lands, waters, and cultural resources that can impact property development and tourism.
Source: Governor of Hawaii
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