Restore native wetlands through mangrove removal in Hulēʻia

Restoring Native Wetlands Through Invasive Mangrove Removal in Hulēʻia

Continued invasive red mangrove removal and native wetland restoration throughout the Hulēʻia watershed on Kauaʻi. Invasive red mangrove has dramatically transformed portions of the Hulēʻia River estuary, displacing native wetland habitat, altering natural water movement, and affecting ecosystems that support endangered Hawaiian waterbirds, native fish, and other wildlife. Mālama Hulēʻia has demonstrated through years of community-led restoration at Alakoko loko iʻa and the surrounding Hulēʻia watershed that removing invasive mangrove can create opportunities for native wetlands to recover, with formerly mangrove-dominated areas being restored to support native vegetation, wildlife, and healthier estuarine conditions. The proposed work would include phased removal of invasive vegetation, restoration of native habitat, and ongoing management to prevent reinvasion and sustain ecological recovery. Expected benefits: improved habitat for endangered Hawaiian waterbirds, support for healthy fisheries and coastal ecosystems, restoration of natural water movement and wetland function, and opportunities for students, volunteers, cultural practitioners, and community partners to participate in hands-on restoration and develop lasting connections to the ʻāina. Continued investment would help recover native wetland ecosystems, strengthen coastal resilience, and sustain the benefits of restoration for future generations.