Hawaii has a wildfire problem.
Each year, about 0.5% of Hawaii's total land area burns each year, equal to or greater than the proportion burned of any other US state. Over 98% of wildfires are human caused. Human ignitions coupled with an increasing amount of nonnative, fire-prone grasses and shrubs and a warming, drying climate have greatly increased the wildfire problem.
Hawaii's communities and resources are at risk.
Wildfires are a mauka to makai issue, affecting everything from human safety, infrastructure, drinking water, agricultural production, cultural resources, native forests, watersheds, and coral reefs.
We are working with you to protect our ʻāina.
Through our extensive partnerships and grassroots efforts, we are making our way towards reducing the number of wildfires and significantly reducing the wildfire risk for communities and precious natural resources throughout the State of Hawaii.
There's no better way to get to know our organization than interacting with us face-to-face. The next best thing: watching us in action on YouTube!
The recent Kawaihae Fire burned over 4,500 acres of wildland in the Northwest region of Hawaii Island. The wildfire directly impacted local communities, businesses, and cultural sites. One week later, the wildfire impacted coastal resources through unprecedented levels of post-fire flooding. Watch this video to learn about the impacts of wildfire from mauka to makai with footage from the recent events. We have a special message at the end of the video about how you can Take Action!
Dealing with wildfires in Hawaii takes a collective effort.
Thankfully there are proactive and passionate people like you who want to help.
Here are some great ways to take action!
Take Part in an Upcoming Event
Ready, Set, Go! Guide
Don't be caught off your toes during wildfire season! Get your hands on a free copy of Ready, Set, Go! Hawaii - Your Personal Wildland Fire Action Guide from us today.
Find out about the many other ways that you can help!
Community Fuels Reduction
Above: Volcano Community Fuels Reduction Day
Now's the time to reach out to your neighbors and organize a community fuels reduction project (free chipper days, tree services, etc.). This is an important step towards becoming a Certified Firewise Community. We have funding until the summer of 2017 to help establish your community as a Firewise Community.