The state is proposing to create a natural area reserve between Poamoho and Schofield-Waikane trail to protect 25 rare and endangered plants and 17 rare or endangered animals.

"Many of these are only found in the Ko'olau Range and are perilously close to extinction from the impacts of invasive plants and animals," Laura H. Thielen, chairwoman of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, said in a press release.

The DLNR will hold a public hearing on the proposal at 6 p.m. April 30 at the Kalanimoku Building, 1151 Punchbowl St., Land Board conference room 132.

The Poamoho Natural Area Reserve will be on state-owned land that is part of the uppermost portions of the 'Ewa Forest Reserve, located at 1,800 feet elevation.

As a natural area reserve, the area native ecosystem will be protected through activities such as surveying and preserving the rare plants and animals as well as controlling weeds.

There are no immediate plans to change the current public/hunting access in the 'Ewa Forest Reserve and the proposed area if designated as a natural area reserve.

Copies of the draft nomination and a map of the area are available for inspection at room 325 in the Kalanimoku Building.