Park Ranger Jason Zimmer points out features of Devastation Trail to visitor Cory Bogas. Photo courtesy of NPS/Jay Robinson

MEDIA RELEASE

The Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park (FHVNP) hosts its next volunteer “Forest Restoration Project” on Saturday, September 24 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This is a joint project with the park’s Natural Resources Management division in celebration of National Public Lands Day.

National Public Lands Day is the nation’s largest hands-on volunteer effort to improve and enhance our public lands. On September 24, all over the nation, more than 150,000 volunteers will plant trees, remove trash, and build trails at public lands across the nation.

Invasive, non-native knotweed (Persicaria capitata) in the Devastation Trail area. Photo courtesy of Forest & Kim Starr

“We’re seeking volunteers to work in the Devastation Trail area removing invasive, non-native knotweed (Persicaria capitata),” stated Mark Johnson, who co-chairs FHVNP’s Forest Restoration Committee.

“Knotweed is a low-growing plant and most work will be done kneeling or crouching. The soil is cindery and the knotweed should pull easily, although some have very long roots. We’ll also learn about the park’s native forest restoration program and control of invasive plants,” he added.

Volunteers should be at least 12 years old (younger children are welcome if accompanied by a parent), and be able to walk at least a mile over uneven terrain. 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 a snack.

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 25 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,” Johnson explained.

To register for the September 24 “Forest Restoration Project,” please call the Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park at 985-7373 or email forest@fhvnp.org. Instructions on where to meet will be provided upon registration. Additional details available at www.fhvnp.org.

“Join the thousands who will take part in the 17th annual National Public Lands Day–and help do your part for America’s lands.”