The ʻi‘iwi (Vestiaria coccinea) is an endemic Hawaiian honeycreeper found nowhere else in the world. With its long, decurved bill, the ‘i‘iwi extracts nectar from native flowering trees like this mamane. Photo by Carol Johnson

MEDIA RELEASE

The Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park seeks volunteers on Saturday, November 19 to help collect and process mamane seed in the park. Mamane (Sophora chrysophylla) are endemic to Hawai‘i’s dry shrubland and dry to moist forests. Photo by Carol Johnson

Volunteers are needed to help gather mamane seeds during the Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park’s “Forest Restoration Project” on Saturday, November 19 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

The project’s goal is to increase the mamane forest on Mauna Loa to provide future habitat and forage for native honeycreeper birds. Mamane (Sophora chrysophylla) are endemic to Hawai‘i’s dry shrubland and dry to moist forests.

“After collecting the seeds, we’ll start processing the seed pods in the field. We will also learn about the park’s native forest restoration program,” said Mark Johnson, who co-chairs the Friends’ Forest Restoration Committee.

Volunteers should be at least 12 years old, and be able to hike at least one mile over uneven terrain with some ‘a‘a lava through brush in an area with a moderate slope. Sturdy walking shoes and long pants are required, along with gear for variable weather conditions (be prepared for sun or rain with a hat, raincoat, sunscreen, etc.) plus drinking water and a snack.

The goal is a crew of 12 people, and pre-registration is required. All participants will need to sign a Friends release form and a park volunteer form. For those under 18, an adult will need to co-sign.

“Also imperative is scrubbing the soles of one’s shoes prior to arrival on site, in order to ensure outside dirt and invasive species seeds aren’t tracked in,” Johnson stated.

To register for the November 19 “Forest Restoration Project,” please call the Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park at 985-7373 or email forest@fhvnp.org Instructions on where to meet will be provided upon registration. Additional details available at www.fhvnp.org