Native Planting in an Endangered Habitat

Here is a unique opportunity to be part of the restoration of one of the world’s most endangered ecosystems: the Hawaiian tropical dry forest. Hundreds of years ago, dry forests held the highest biodiversity in the islands. Today, less than 10% of their original range remains. At Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge, we are restoring this forest one plant at a time, with the help of our volunteers.

Depending on the week, volunteer work varies between invasive species removal and native planting. By joining our volunteer crew, you will learn plant identification, best planting practices, and invasive removal techniques. Some weeks, we celebrate with food.

Every Thursday at 8:30am, we meet in the Kealia Pond Visitor Center Parking Lot and travel together to our restoration site. We return by 11:30am. 

Please bring work gloves, water, sunscreen, a face mask, and durable close toed shoes. All tools will be provided. 

To RSVP, please email dylan_finley@fws.gov or call 845-596-4114 and specify which date you are planning to volunteer. Thank you!