The Hawaiʻi State Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) has announced that seven forestry projects across four islands will receive funding to boost community engagement with trees.
These projects, supported by Kaulunani Urban and Community Forestry, will take place over the next three years on Kauaʻi, Maui, Oʻahu and Hawaiʻi Island.
The goal is to strengthen the bond between local communities and their natural environment that will allow people to recognize the numerous benefits trees provide, from clean air and water to cooling shade and improved well-being.
DOFAW Administrator David Smith highlighted the significance of these efforts, noting that community trees hold cultural, ecological, and economic value.
He expressed pride in the department’s partnership with these projects, emphasizing their role in fostering vitality among Hawaiʻi’s communities and urban forests.
“The department recognizes the cultural, ecological and economic values that community trees provide,” explained Smith. “We are proud to partner on these projects and support expanded work to foster vitality in communities of trees and people.”
Dr. Heather McMillen, Kaulunani program coordinator, also praised the initiative, stating that the commitment to urban and community forests is crucial at every level, from global to local.
She pointed out that federal funding for such projects is at an all-time high, and now, Hawaiʻi is stepping up to show its dedication to growing forests where people live, work, learn, and play.
“Commitment to urban and community forests is critical at all scales, from global to local,” said Dr. McMillen. “Federal funding for urban and community forestry projects has been at record levels and now the state of Hawaiʻi has stepped up to demonstrate its commitment here at home.”
Island projects breakdown:
Kauaʻi:
Mālama Kauaʻi’s Village Harvest project: This initiative will invest in local fruit tree nurseries and host educational events aimed at improving fruit tree management across the island. The project will engage Kauaʻi residents in community forestry to promote sustainable practices.
Maui:
Maui urban forest management plan: The County of Maui’s Department of Management will enhance its federal award by conducting a thorough analysis of tree canopy data. This data will inform decision-making and promote equity in community forestry.
Restoring the Hamakualoa Coast: Mālama Hāmākua Maui will lead the reforestation of the Hamakualoa Open Space Preserve through community-driven efforts, restoring native plants to the coastline.
Oʻahu:
Updating Honolulu’s urban forestry practices: The City and County of Honolulu will work with community and technical experts to revise city regulations for better management of urban trees, particularly in parks and streets.
Ulu Koa project: Kōkua Kalihi Valley will strengthen Kalihi’s land and community resilience by reconnecting urban land with people through Pacific Island tree-planting traditions.
Hawaiʻi Island:
Ola i ka ʻĀina project: Hiki Ola will build on its restoration work at the Kealakekua Mountain Reserve by engaging students in activities like seed collection, bird identification, and native tree planting, deepening their connection to ʻāina.
Waikoloa Community Forest expansion: The Waikōloa Dry Forest Institute will lead a community-driven restoration effort to replace 10 acres of invasive grassland with 10,000 native plants, revitalizing the local ecosystem.
“People increasingly recognize the need to grow the forest around us—where we live, work, learn and play,” added Dr. McMillen. “Communities that are growing healthy trees understand that trees grow healthy communities.”
These projects represent a significant step forward in creating healthier, more resilient communities across Hawaiʻi by nurturing the natural environment that sustains them.
You can click here for more information. DLNR DOFAW said that for any questions about the urban and community forestry projects to contact Koki Atcheson, the IRA Community Partnerships Coordinator, at is koki.b.atcheson.researcher@hawaii.gov.
The work ahead will not only protect Hawaiʻi’s urban forests but will also inspire future generations to value and care for the trees that provide so much to their daily lives.