MEDIA RELEASE

Superintendent Cindy Orlando has announced the sale of a new edition of the annual TriPark Pass.

The $25 pass is available now at Hawaii Volcanoes, Puuhonua o Honaunau, and Haleakala national park entrance stations.

Passes purchased in December can be used starting Jan. 1, 2011, and are valid for entrance to all three parks for one year.

“The TriPark Pass makes a unique holiday gift,” Orlando said. “It’s a great way to share the wonder of Hawaii’s parks with family and friends.”

The new edition features a painting of ulei by Hilo artist John Dawson. A member of the rose family, ulei is a sprawling native shrub that grows in all three parks. Its flowers and leaves are used in lei and for medicine, while its tough wood is used to fashion oo (digging sticks) and hoops for fish nets.

Eighty percent of the pass purchase price is invested in projects that enhance a park visitor’s safety, access, and enjoyment. Parks use the money to rehabilitate hiking trails; provide waysides and brochures that interpret distinctive natural and cultural features; improve survival of endangered native species; and more.

For information call Hawaii Volcanoes’ fee office at (808) 985-6151.