Assess Effects of Flow Diversion on Snake Creek Riparian Resources

Natural soundscapes are a valuable resource within U.S. National Parks. Anthropogenic sounds such as those from Air tours may compromise visitor capacity to see wildlife, enjoy a sense of solitude, and experience the untrammeled character of wilderness areas within the park. Anthropogenic noise may also impact the behavior of protected wildlife that inhabit the park, particularly those species that communicate acoustically. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (HAVO) is home to several vulnerable, threatened, and endangered animal species, all of which may be affected by air tour noise. Research is needed to address gaps in knowledge regarding the effects of air tour noise on the behavior of these native Hawaiian species.