MEDIA RELEASE

Aloha!

The Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is hosting our next volunteer FOREST RESTORATION PROJECT on Saturday, March 20th from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

This month we will help locate native plants and clear vegetation around them as part of a project studying pasture grass control methods in the Kahuku unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. These native plants have either recovered naturally or been planted within fenced enclosures that have protected them from grazing animals over the past four years. Learn about the park’s native forest restoration program at Kahuku and experience firsthand the start of natural recovery of the forest.

Volunteers should be at least 14 years old, and be able to hike at least one mile over rough, uneven terrain covered by thick pasture grasses in an area with a moderate slope. 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, snacks, and a bag lunch.

Also imperative is scrubbing the soles of one’s shoes prior to arrival on site, in order to ensure outside dirt and invasive species seeds aren’t tracked in.

Our goal is a crew of 12 people, and pre-registration is required. All participants will need to sign a Friends release form. An adult will need to be present to co-sign a park volunteer form for those under 18. Since we will be a half-hour drive in from the parking area, all volunteers will need to stay until the project is completed at 3:00 p.m.

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 email Mark Johnson at mjohnson@hevanet.com or call 961-5012 by Monday evening, March 15th.***

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

Mark Johnson, Nancy Chaney, & Patty Kupchak
Forest Restoration Committee Co-Chairs

P.S. Please save the dates for our upcoming Forest Restoration Projects:

• Friday, April 23rd
• Saturday, May 15th
• Saturday, June 5th

Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Hawai‘i Volcanoes Institute (808) 985-7373 PO Box 653 Volcano, HI 96785 admin@fhvnp.org Please visit our website: www.fhvnp.org