Join me on this epic feature-length ramble where I talk about our efforts to restore native Hawaiian dry forest habitat on the slopes of Mauna'ōhi ridge in Haha'ione valley on the island of O'ahu. This ongoing project is a learning experience for us and an opportunity to experiment with various methods. If you have any advice, constructive criticisms, or ideas, please let me know in the comments.
There are many challenges to restoring native habitat, especially in the context of ecological collapse and the ongoing extinction of many species. The native Hawaiian tropical dry forest is a highly fragmented ecosystem that is on the brink of completely disappearing. Many species have already gone extinct. The soil has been greatly altered and degraded. Aggressive non-native species now dominate this area, and often outcompete native species. Rather than fixate on removal / eradication of these non-native species, we're gradually phasing them out in favor of the appropriate native species.
So far we're seeing some decent successes. Several native shrubs are now established, and native tree seedlings appear to be establishing. Around 25 native plant species are now growing here, creating a hotspot of native biodiversity which is can hopefully support native pollinators, birds, etc. (if they happen to show up!). My goal is not to create just a garden, but to see natural regeneration of native species and long-term ecological benefits.
I will continue to document this project as often as I can and share the progress over time. If you have any suggestions or questions, please let me know!
16 апр 2024
