Waikoloa Dry Forest Initiative

Land Management: Through management informed by science, WDFI protected approximately 300 acres of native habitat from wildfire through weed management and fuelbreak maintenance. WDFI collected and stored native seeds, propagated several thousand native plants, and planted 2000 native trees converting five acres of degraded land into managed forest restoration areas.

Community Outreach & Public Education: WDFI hosted monthly interpretive walks for the general public, as well as bi-monthly community workdays that engaged our local and visiting community. WDFI also provided field trips for visiting students, local schools, and other groups. WDFI also hosted a major educational event, the Wiliwili Festival, which engaged the community in-person at the preserve and online through virtual tours, workshops, talks, and activities.

Future Foresters: WDFI hosted nature immersion after-school programming four days per week throughout the school year for 52 students. This place-based program serves area youth ages 9-13 and is provided at no cost to families. WDFI also provided field trips for local elementary school students and a four-week summer program for youth. A two-week summer camp was also offered at no cost to families and students.