Ulu lāʻau o ka ʻāina at ʻIole

This project, led by the University of Hawaiʻi and Arizona State University, aims to restore degraded ʻāina in Kohala, Hawaiʻi, integrating Native Hawaiian knowledge with data-driven methods. Located in North Kohala ‘Iole serves as a living scientific research center focused on climate solutions rooted in Hawaiian culture. Our goal is to restore 209 acres of former macadamia orchard in the Hapahapai watershed, now dominated by invasive species. The Ulu lāʻau o ka ʻāina initiative features a five-acre lei and hula forest demonstration, partnering with Terraformation, an organization with extensive experience in community-based ecosystem restoration, to clear non-natives, collect native seeds, and implement low-impact reforestation. Activities support ʻāina-based education, community events, and agrotourism. Kohala High School students and college interns will assist with planting native species and conducting systems-based research, fostering workforce and career development.