The state Department of Land and Natural Resources estimates it will cost more than $100,000 to repair nearly two miles of vandalized fencing that protects rare native plants and forest on Hawaii island.

Vandals cut through multiple sections of fence surrounding the Puu Maka­ala Natural Area Reserve, the DNLR said in a news release Tuesday. State officials say the damage may have been done in one day.

The fence keeps feral goats, pigs and other invasive animals away from native plants.

This is not the first time fencing in two units of the reserve has been vandalized.

"Whatever point these vandals think they’re making, they need to realize that they and every other taxpayer in Hawaii ultimately ends up paying for the replace­ment of this fencing," said Suzanne Case, chairwoman of the Board of Land and Natural Resources.

"Additionally, significant staff time will be spent to repair the damage, which could take several months and takes staff away from other scheduled projects and regular duties."

Anyone caught and convicted of vandalizing or destroying state property faces a Class B felony with a maximum 10-year jail sentence.

The 18,706-acre Puu Maka­ala Natural Area Reserve is near the top of Stainback Highway and includes much of the Kulani Correctional Facility site.

Anyone with information is asked to call the department’s hotline at 643-DLNR.