The Friends of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is hosting our next volunteer FOREST RESTORATION PROJECT on Friday, May 20th from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

This month we will be doing invasive plant removal in an area on the Mauna Loa strip where we have been helping the park with native seedling planting and invasive weed control since 2009. This is a wonderful kipuka of Koa and Ohia forest with nice understory.  We will also learn about the park’s native forest restoration program.

Volunteers should be at least 12 years old, and be able to hike at least one mile over rough, uneven terrain and up and down steep slopes.  Sturdy walking shoes and long pants are required, along with gear for variable weather conditions (be prepared for sun or rain with a hat, raincoat, sunscreen, etc.) plus drinking water and snacks. 

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 clean before entering the park to protect against seeds, fungus and other invasives.

Our goal is a crew of 14 people, and pre-registration is required.  All participants will need to sign a Friends release form and a park volunteer form. For those under 18, an adult will need to co-sign.

Be aware that there can be VOG or high levels of SO2 in the area.  If it is too heavy 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 May 16th. 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!

We look forward to working with you on many important projects this year!

Please save the dates for our upcoming Forest Restoration Projects in 2016

April 15, Friday

May 20, Friday

June 17, Friday

July 22, Friday

August 1 (no project—Park centennial starts)

August 27 (no project—Park cultural festival and BioBlitz)

September 16, Friday

October 14, Friday

November 18, Friday

(808) 985-7373
forest@fhvnp.org