Protect Hawaii's Last Lowland Native Rainforest

Aloha Friends of Keauohana Rainforest,

The opening months of 2026 have been a season of connection, learning, and renewed momentum for Hawaii Environmental Restoration. From our home in Hawaii, we continue to be reminded that caring for forests is both a local responsibility and a global shared effort.

Through community events and outreach, we’ve celebrated the cultural and ecological importance of ohia—one of Hawaii’s most vital native trees—while raising awareness about Rapid Ohia Death (ROD), a disease that threatens Hawaii’s native forests on a landscape scale. These gatherings bring together scientists, educators, families, and conservation practitioners, reflecting a growing collective commitment to protecting biodiversity and strengthening ecosystem resilience.

Equally important has been our work with students and young people. By connecting youth with hands-on restoration and introducing pathways in environmental stewardship, we are helping foster the next generation of leaders who will carry this work forward—both in Hawaii and beyond. The values of caring for the land, or malama aina, resonate far beyond our islands and speak to a universal responsibility to sustain the natural systems we all depend on.

As we move into the next season, this spirit of collaboration continues in the forests of Keauohana, where favorable conditions support ongoing planting and restoration efforts. Each new tree represents not only ecological recovery, but a shared investment in the future of our planet.

Mahalo for being part of this global community. Your support helps bridge islands and continents in a common purpose: to restore forests, cultivate knowledge, and nurture a deeper connection between people and the Earth.

With gratitude,
Hawaii Environmental Restoration (HER)

Links:

• HER Website Blog for more detail