Welcome to Nāhelehele
Photos by Yvonne Yarber & Keoki Apokolani Carter
Ka‘ahahui ‘O Ka Nāhelehele’s mission is to advocate for the perpetuation of Hawaii’s dryland ecosystems, and the many often endangered plants, birds and insects that live within these communities.
This is done through partnerships, and programs with both youth and adults about the importance of dry forests. Nāhelehele believes integrating education, cultural programs, indigenous knowledge and science builds healthier connections between Hawaii’s people and the native dry forest. The organization is also actively involved in a variety of hands-on projects such as the development of a Nene sanctuary at Puu Waa Waa, the development of this resource website, and holding the annual Dryland Forest Symposium. What does the name Nāhelehele mean? “Forest, grove, wilderness; trees, shrubs, vegetation.”
This is done through partnerships, and programs with both youth and adults about the importance of dry forests. Nāhelehele believes integrating education, cultural programs, indigenous knowledge and science builds healthier connections between Hawaii’s people and the native dry forest. The organization is also actively involved in a variety of hands-on projects such as the development of a Nene sanctuary at Puu Waa Waa, the development of this resource website, and holding the annual Dryland Forest Symposium. What does the name Nāhelehele mean? “Forest, grove, wilderness; trees, shrubs, vegetation.”
More than 25% of Hawai`i endangered plant species are found in dryland forests.
- Only 5% to 10% of dryland forests remain today as illustrated by the ecosystem map.
- Less than 3% are considered healthy.
- Because dryland ecosystems are so rare, all dryland habitat species are at risk, whether federally listed or not.
- There is little funding but a growing number of people are volunteering their time and expertise to these rare dryland forest communities. Where there is responsibility, care, and effort there is hope. Kuleana, mālama, mana`olana.
To learn more about dryland forests go to our Resources page.
To enlarge the map to the left, click on the thumbnail shown.
To download the map, click in the attachment box below.
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