A public-private coalition designed to restore and protect the Wai'anae mountains watershed has been formed.

The coalition is called the Wai'anae Mountains Watershed Partnership.

The government members are the state land department, the Honolulu Board of Water Supply, the U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii, and Navy Region Hawaii.

The private members are Gill-Olson Joint Venture, Kaala Farm and MAO Organic Farms.

Laura H. Thielen, chairwoman of the land and natural resources agency, said a goal is to cooperatively develop and implement management strategies for watershed areas, native species and their habitats.

Compatible recreation uses and promotion of sustainable agriculture also will be a focus.