Hawaiian Forests: An Endangered Life-support System

Hawaii’s native forests are a true biological and cultural treasure. They shelter more than 10,000 plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth; they protect watersheds, beaches and reefs from devastating run-off and sediment; they foster the survival of traditional Hawaiian cultural practices. But perhaps most importantly, Hawaiian forests serve as a life-support system for our islands, replenishing and delivering the fresh, clean water that is so vital to plants, animals, and humans.

Native forests protect our water supply by defending our islands from flood and drought. Their tall, dense canopies provide a shield from rain, wind, and sun. Thick under-stories act as giant sponges, soaking up water and releasing it slowly back into streams and aquifers. Roots grip the steep mountainsides, anchoring the soil and preventing erosion from sending destructive sediment into streams and onto coral reefs. Lofty branches draw moisture from passing clouds, providing water even in the absence of rain.

The Hawaiian forest includes 48 different woodland types, and it once flourished from the mountains to the sea. More than half is gone now – lost to agriculture, grazing, logging, wildfire and development. Only remnants survive, and these are ravaged by degraded watersheds and by invasive non-native plants and animals. Forest damage has led to habitat loss and an alarmingly high rate of extinction. Nearly 60% of Hawaii's native flora and fauna is considered endangered.

Today, the greatest threat to the Hawaiian forest is destruction from invasive, alien species such as miconia, pigs, and feral animals. The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is working with local communities and conservation partners throughout the islands to protect the last of our vanishing Hawaiian forest. Their Forest Recovery Project aims to manage forest preserves, coordinate watershed partners, and strengthen forest protection.

What you can do:

• Never release non-native plants, animals or fish into forests or streams.
• Clean your shoes and gear before entering the forest to avoid spreading invasive seeds, weeds, and insects.
• Never dump liquids or debris into streams. Dispose of trash properly; never litter.
• Reduce strain on streams and aquifers by conserving water.
• Prevent fires. Native forests are not adapted to fire, and cannot recover from it.
• Teach others, especially children, to care for our forests.
• Volunteer for forest conservation projects by emailing The Nature Conservancy at volunteerhawaii@tnc.org or by calling Janice Staab at (808) 587-6232.
• Learn more by reading about TNC’s Forest Recovery Project at: www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/hawaii/forests/art21965.html