Initiatives

At Wao Kele, our initiatives are designed to protect Maui’s communities, restore the land, and honor its rich cultural heritage. Each effort contributes to creating a safer, more resilient, and ecologically vibrant island.

Fire Mitigation

Our fire mitigation efforts focus on reducing wildfire risks while promoting a healthy forest ecosystem.

Key Actions:

  • Removal of dead trees and dry brush that fuel wildfires. 

  • Restoration of unkept forest areas to create defensible spaces. 

  • Establishing irrigation systems to sustain healthy vegetation during dry periods. 

  • Maintaining culverts and gulches for effective stormwater drainage. 

Collaboration:

  • Hāloa ‘Āina is a valued strategic partner, working with us to foster sustainability,  cultural stewardship, and community-driven impact.

  • We are proud to have the support of the Maui Fire Department, whose guidance strengthens our efforts.

    View support letter>>

Water Restoration

Restoring water flow is critical to maintaining healthy ecosystems and mitigating fire risks. 

Securing Water Rights:

  • We are working to restore water to the gullies on our property to enhance ecological balance and reduce drought-related fire hazards.

Water Retention:

  • Enhancing the land’s ability to retain water to support native vegetation and prevent erosion. 

Cultural and Ecological Restoration

Honoring the land’s heritage while fostering biodiversity is at the core of our mission. 

Native Plants:

  • Restoring Hawaiian agroforestry practices, including the cultivation of Koa, Sandalwood, and Loʻi Kalo (taro). 

  • Incorporating vetiver grass and native trees to stabilize soil and prevent erosion. 

Cultural Preservation:

  • Reviving traditional farming methods to honor the Kanaka Maoli (Hawaiian people) and their connection to the land. 

  • Showcasing the diversity and beauty of Maui’s native flora to educate and inspire future generations. 

Planted Trees: 

The following trees have already been planted as part of this restoration effort, contributing to the regeneration of Maui’s ecosystem and the preservation of Hawaiian agroforestry traditions. 

  • (3) Kukui nut trees 

  • (1) Royal Poinciana 

  • (60) Koa 

  • (3) Plumeria 

  • (100) Ohia Lehua 

  • (100) Monkeypod 

  • (100) Sandalwood 

  • (65) Norfolk Island Pines 

  • (3) Lychee 

  • (3) Puakenekene 

  • (5) Shower trees 

Join Us

We invite you to support our initiatives and help us protect Maui’s natural landscapes and communities. Together, we can build a safer, more resilient future for the island and its people.