The long struggle to preserve the scenic Ka Iwi shoreline has received a strong, much-needed boost.

The Lingle administration wants to reclassify about 240 acres of land on O'ahu's southern coast, from Queen's Beach to the Makapu'u Lighthouse, from urban to conservation.

Once the state Land Use Commission completes the lengthy process — which includes public hearings and possible environmental review — the new classification will make it much more difficult to build on this lovely, rugged stretch of coastline.

That's more than an environmental victory. It's a gift for future generations of O'ahu residents and visitors.

Residents, area lawmakers and environmentalists have fought for more than 30 years to keep golf courses, hotels and housing away from this unspoiled stretch of land.

But the issue isn't entirely settled. Nearby, two parcels of privately owned land mauka of Kalaniana'ole Highway remain open to development.

An attempt to build "vacation cabins" — permitted under the city's zoning rules — was thwarted last year. Ownership of the parcels has changed, but the possibility for development remains.

The best solution would be a mutual agreement among government, the community and the landowners to keep the parcels in their natural state — for today, tomorrow and generations to come.