LIHUE — Kauai police asking for the public's help in finding a man who has been missing for nearly a year.

Jesse Pinegar, now 23, flew to Hawaii from Utah for a vacation in January 2008. He reportedly hiked into Kalalau Valley and set up a campsite about 5 miles from the trailhead.

Initially, Pinegar remained in touch with his family in Utah via phone, but has not contacted them since March 24, 2008.

Pinegar is 6 feet 1 and about 185 pounds. He has brown eyes and brown hair.

He has a tattoo of a Celtic Tree of Life on his right shoulder and a Celtic bear tattoo on his left abdomen.

Anyone with information about Pinegar is urged to call Police Dispatch, 241-1711, KPD Investigative Services, 241-1696, or Crime Stoppers, 241-1887.

Pinegar's mother Joany may also be reached at 801-225-6025.