On September 23, 2023, members of the Environmental Law Program participated in a community work day with the Koʻolau Mountains Watershed Partnership at Mānoa Cliffs. The service-learning day focused on invasive species removal and planting species native to the area. Volunteers observed native plants on the mile hike to the restoration site. The restoration site is a 6-acre fenced area of forest managed by volunteers. The fence protects carpet plants and seeds from scavenging pigs. Native plants have been rapidly declining mainly because of damage by pigs and competition with invasive plants. 

The native Hawaiian forests of the Koʻolau Mountains play a vital role in human and environmental health. The forest ecosystem replenishes the underground aquifers which provide most of the fresh water on Oʻahu. Additionally, the forests lessen climate impacts, reduce flooding and erosion mauka to makai, provide an ecosystem for endangered species, and hold great cultural significance. 

“My favorite part was throwing native seed bombs into the valley below,” reflected ELP Research Associate 2L Malia Taylor-Wolfe. “I also enjoyed learning about plants native to Mānoa. I can’t wait to identify them on my next hike!”