The Department of Land and Natural Resources has closed Kahakapao Road, the access road to the Makawao Forest Reserve, to begin work on drainage improvements.

Until construction is completed May 4, the forest reserve boundary gate will be closed, DLNR said. Emergency response vehicles and county Department of Water Supply vehicles will be allowed access, but all other users should park their vehicles below the gate and walk in.

The Makawao Forest Reserve consists mostly of non-native pines and eucalyptus and is used by hunters, hikers, bicyclists, equestrians and other outdoor enthusiasts. Because the area receives a lot of rain, the heavily used road suffers from drainage problems, the DLNR said. The drainage project will allow for better water management and help sustain the road and drainage ditches, the agency said.

For details, contact Na Ala Hele program manager Torrie Nohara at 873-3508.