Watershed Protection and Initiatives, Statewide

This project will protect Hawai‘i’s forest watersheds long-term by building fences and removing non-native pigs, goats, deer, cattle, and sheep. Safeguarding native forests is one of the most effective ways to reduce climate-related hazards such as drought and flooding. Native forests are the source of Hawai‘i’s freshwater, and can capture up to 30% more rainfall and increase groundwater recharge by 10–15%. Their deep roots stabilize soil and absorb rainfall up to 15 times faster than bare ground, dramatically reducing flooding. In contrast, feral hooved animals compact soil and convert native forests into grasslands and barren areas, greatly worsening erosion. Controlling these animals has reduced erosion by up to 90% in some watersheds, protecting downstream loko‘ia, beaches, coral reefs, and fisheries. Native forests are central to Hawai‘i’s cultural heritage and biodiversity. Without action, dozens of native plant and wildlife species face extinction.