Nearly a decade ago, a fierce fire burned through the dry forest along beautiful Mauumae Beach. In response, the South Kohala Coastal Partnership and UH Sea Grant are leading the charge to restore the scarred area as part of a number of other Waiulaula Watershed restoration projects. As part of the Mauumae restoration project, those involved will work together to reduce sediment runoff (a direct impact of wildfire), plant native dry forest vegetation, and implement wildfire prevention practices (that's where we come in!)
On February 24th, Pablo Beimler, representing Hawaii Wildfire, met with Sierra Tobiason, the lead on the project, Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail representatives, and the National Park Service. The group toured the project location and provided input on how to best manage the area. Mr. Beimler offered advice on what native plants would best mitigate fire hazards and identified areas where fuelbreaks could be created to protect the project site. Eventually, Hawaii Wildfire will work with Ms. Tobiason to create a fire management plan.
The project area is not only an ecologically important area to prevent runoff and wildfire, but is a favorite beach for many local residents who enjoy basking in its powdery sand and gentle waters (in the summer, that is). In fact, it's a favorite spot for many of Hawaii Wildfire's members. We're excited to be a part of such a ground-breaking project.
Banner photo: Field tour attendees point out areas of concern at the Mauumae project site.