Aloha!

The Friends of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is hosting our next volunteer FOREST RESTORATION PROJECT on Friday, February 21^st, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This month we will be removing invasive faya trees on the Mauna Loa strip. This will provide hands-on learning about invasive weed control and how it fits in with the park’s broader vegetation management program. Volunteers play an important role in protecting important and threatened native ecosystems.

Volunteers should be at least 12 years old, and be able to hike at least one mile over rough, uneven ground. Sturdy walking shoes and long pants are required. Be prepared with gear for variable weather conditions, we could have sun or rain or both (bring a hat, raincoat, sunscreen, etc.) plus drinking water, snacks and lunch. We will all arrive and leave from the site at the same time.

Also imperative is scrubbing the soles of one’s shoes prior to arrival on site in order to ensure outside dirt/soil and invasive species aren’t tracked in. Clothing, tools, and gloves, etc. should be cleaned before entering the park to protect against seeds, Rapid Ohia Death fungus and other invasives.

Our goal is a crew of 16 people, and pre-registration is required.  All participants will need to sign all release forms provided. For those under 18, an adult will need to co-sign.

Be aware that there can be VOG or poor air quality (unlikely, but possible).  If the levels are unsafe or the Park is closed, we’ll cancel the project and try to notify everyone in advance.

***If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Patty Kupchak at forest@fhvnp.org or (808) 352-1402 by Monday evening February 17th. Please include your first & last name(s), email address(s) and a phone number where we can reach you at the last minute in case of cancellation***

Come join us for a wonderful opportunity to enjoy our National Park and participate in native forest recovery!

Mark, Carol, Patty, Linda & Paul
Forest Restoration Committee