50,000th NATIVE SEEDLING TO BE OUTPLANTED AT AUWAHI TO HONOR KUMU RENE SYLVA

A 50,000^th Native seedling will be out-planted this weekend at the Auwahi forest on Maui’s `Ulupalakua Ranch.  The Maui Restoration Group and Leeward Haleakalā Watershed Restoration Partnership are conducting the ceremonial planting to honor the recent passing of famed Maui conservationist and Kumu Rene Sylva.  Since initiating the vision of reforestation nine-years ago, more than 100 volunteer trips have been made, utilizing more than 2,500 volunteers.  Scientists say the forest is considered one of the most unique and diverse in all of Hawaii and is now thriving, with many species now producing seedlings on their own.

(Posted by Wendy Osher:  Friday, January 23, 2009) (Photos Courtesy:  Art Medeiros © 2009)