Tūtū and Me Participates in the Mauna Kea Forest Restoration Project October 4, 2016

Tūtū and Me Traveling Preschool Team Hawai‘i North, Hawai‘i Kona, and Hawai‘i Hāmākua participated in the Mauna Kea Dry Forest legacy by helping to plant various native species at the Ka‘ohe Restoration Area. We were inspired while fulfilling our kuleana of protecting our native forests and wildlife.

“Found only on the upper slopes of the largest mountain in the world, Mauna Kea, the critically endangered Palila has a vibrant yellow head, a strong bill, and a delightful call. This spectacular bird is an important part of our Hawaiian heritage worth protecting.” MKFRP

Restoring the high-elevation dry forest is essential to ensuring that Palila persist on Hawai‘i island. The goal of the Mauna Kea Forest Restoration Project is to facilitate management that benefits Palila at Pu‘u Mali and Ka‘ohe Restoration Areas atop Mauna Kea.

The Tūtū and Me teams were able to plant various native species such as māmane, ‘āweoweo, and ‘a‘ali‘i. Totaling 500 native species planted and watered by our hands. The teams were very fortunate to take part in such a valuable and significant project led by Mauna Kea Forest Restoration Project, in restoring our native forests and wildlife. They were also blessed to walk the beautiful newly-opened Palila Forest Discovery Trail, where we listened carefully for the endangered Palila.

Special māhalo to Project Coordinator Kalā Asing, Aunty Almyra’s son, and Field Crew Leader Joe Kern who both led and guided our amazing adventure.