Large-Scale Native Forest Restoration

Undertake large-scale native forest restoration to strengthen the resilience of our landscapes, sequester carbon, restore critical habitat, enhance water retention, and reduce the risks of wildfire and erosion. Where appropriate, incorporate silvopasture—integrating native trees, food trees, or timber species—through collaboration with the ranching community, as much of the open land is currently managed for livestock. Select highly visible sites for some projects to serve as flagship examples of how these funds are being used, aiming for at least one showcase project per island. Potential starting locations include lands owned by land trusts, the State, counties (e.g., PONC parcels), or nonprofit land stewardship organizations. Additional guidance on prioritizing project locations and defining scope can be drawn from watershed management plans, Community Wildfire Protection Plans, the Hawai‘i Forest Action Plan, and similar resources.