Mahalo to the State of Hawai’i, Department of Land and Natural Resources for hosting OANRP volunteers for a special winter visit and volunteer project at Ka‘ena!
TARGET WEEDS: koa haole (Leucaena leucocephala)
PROJECT: We will clear koa haole (Leucaena leucocephala) from a sand dune located in the Mokule‘ia section of Ka‘ena Point State Park. The restoration site is located about half-way between the parking lot and the Natural Area Reserve (NAR) and near a regular haul-out site for Hawaiian monk seals. We will use folding saws and loppers to cut the weeds and then apply herbicide to the cut stem with drip applicator bottles. Participants will hike the scenic coast and learn about Ka‘ena’s natural and cultural resources, including nesting Laysan albatross in the NAR.
HIKING TIME: 3.75 hours (round trip)
DIFFICULTY: Easy/moderate; generally flat and rocky, may be muddy in places, minimal inclines and declines; hot & sunny conditions with no shade options
WHAT TO BRING: Long pants, long sleeve shirt and shoes that you don’t mind getting muddy, ample sunscreen and water. There will be no restrooms or running water. Please review the suggested packing list.
All weeding tools and gloves will be provided.
TYPICAL SCHEDULE:
- Introduction to Ka‘ena Point, safety briefing (~15 minutes)
- Hike to project site east of sand cove or “hidden beach” (~45 minutes)
- Discuss native coastal species and restoration goals (~10 minutes)
- Weed control (~2 hours)
- Lunch (1/2 hour)
- Hike to Natural Area Reserve (~45 minutes)
- Tour of NAR, Laysan albatross and Hawaiian monk seal observation (~45 minutes)
- Hike back to parking lot (~1.5 hours)
Volunteer Opportunities 