Stephanie Nagata

What Does it Take to Manage Mauna Kea while Maintaining Balance?

Stephanie Nagata, Director of the University of Hawai`i’s Office of Mauna Kea Management (OMKM), discusses the multifaceted operation of managing Mauna Kea.  Operations range from road maintenance and snow removal, telescope activities, species protection, cultural sites protection, public access, commercial tour and filming activities to public star gazing.  All of these activities take place in a remote location that is culturally significant, has unique features, harsh environmental conditions and is accessed by a diverse group of users.  Managing and finding a balance amongst these diverse needs and interests is a continually evolving challenge of the University’s Office of Mauna Kea Management.