The state is trying to control populations of invasive animals that damage the native forest and cause erosion.

Hunters with valid permits are due to fly to remote valleys for the hunting, which is being allowed Friday through Sunday.

The area is usually only open to archery hunting because the Kalalau trail is so popular with hikers.

But the park is temporarily closed for two months while the state conducts park repairs. This is giving hunters an opportunity to use guns and dogs.

Last month hunters killed 9 pigs and 18 goats in the area during one weekend.