Hawaii's stunning natural diversity is important for maintaining traditional Hawaiian culture. Unfortunately, human activities like industrial pollution and overfishing have led to the loss of native animal species and almost 8% of total tree cover. Luckily, these effects have not gone unnoticed. Waimea Valley in Haleiwa is dedicated to educating and preserving Hawaii's natural habitat. Here are a few ways locals are working to slow and stop the impact of climate change and human activity.

Important Conservation Efforts in Hawaii

1. Species Preservation

Despite the best efforts of conservationists, dozens of native Hawaiian species have gone extinct in recent years. In fact, 47 species died out while waiting to receive protection under the Endangered Species Act. As local activists wait for safeguards to be applied, they can protect threatened beings by maintaining natural habitats.

For example, the Hawaiian Moorhen, or 'alae'ula, was once common on all but two of Hawaii's islands. Waimea Valley has been pivotal in monitoring these birds and their offspring while protecting their habitat. Fifteen of these beautiful creatures live in the area, and the population has been growing each year. Over the last few decades, conservation efforts throughout the state have helped them rebound to a total population of over 500, with private and public sanctuaries playing a key role. 

2. Reforestation

For generations, native Hawaiian plants like wiliwili, alahe'e, and koa have played an important role in Hawaiian culture. They also form an integral part of local ecosystems, providing food and shelter for countless endemic birds, small mammals, and reptiles.

Some of the most successful conservation efforts on the islands involve reforesting areas stripped of tree cover, with activists adding thousands of native Hawaiian and Pacific trees, shrubs, and flowering plants. Many of these efforts rely on support from public officials. Local volunteers and contributors worldwide also help provide the funding necessary to purchase seeds, saplings, and supplies. Both residents and tourists alike can get involved with Hui Hānai Āina—restoring native land—through Waimea Valley. Volunteers can help remove invasive species and plant native ones in their place. 

3. Local Food Production

Hawaii's traditional food sources have been depleted due to overexploitation and population growth. Additionally, as much as 90% of food is imported, making the islands vulnerable to shortages and natural disasters. Therefore, many locals rely on unsustainable farming and fishing practices to keep them fed. 

To counter this trend, Hawaiian conservationists work with agricultural producers and local seafood industries to develop methods of improving and certifying sustainable food production practices. Although it may take years to reestablish Hawaiians' self-sufficiency in food, these efforts can reduce the overreliance on destructive, precarious supply systems.

If you're interested in helping with conservation efforts and being a pono traveler (to travel with care), contact Waimea Valley in Haleiwa, HI. The team at this important site of Hawaiian culture is leading the way in preserving and restoring the area's diverse native plant and animal life for future generations. Call (808) 638-5877 to learn more about volunteering, and visit them online for more information on their mission.