In this episode, we take a look at forests and water recharge. We’re in the watershed forests of Oʻahu, Maui, and Hawaiʻi. We talk to hydrologists and ecological experts working to conserve and re-establish native plants and animals in these forests—in an effort to not only preserve the ʻaina but also to recharge the underground aquifers that feed the Hawaiian islands with fresh water.

We talk to Ulalia Woodside from The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in Waikamoi Preserve on Maui. Alison Cohan explains how the Waikamoi Preserve is actively managed to help keep out invasive species. We travel to the Kona watershed on the West side of Hawaiʻi with Kamehameha Schools Hydrologist Kāʻeo Duarte to learn about the path of water through the forest. We finish up on Oʻahu at the Mānoa Cliff Trail with Suzanne Case, the Chair of state of Hawaii’s Department of Land and Natural Resources, talking about the importance of forests across the state and the role that volunteers play in restoring native forests and watersheds. Hawaiʻi has committed to protect 30 percent of Watershed Forests by the year 2030.— Season 6, Episode 6.

Watch the 30-second promo for this episode, go to the landing page to view additional resources, or view more Voice of the Sea episodes at voiceofthesea.org.