Join us in our ninja battle against this invader!

We are making a difference to the forest of Pu‘u Pili, but it’s a steep uphill battle against the menace of non-native Himalayan ginger (Hedychium gardnerianum).

For the past century or so, Himalayan ginger has spread unhindered from a few exotic gardens, slowly but surely, into the native forest. It now dominates many thousands of acres of watershed forest, and like most invasive plants in Hawai‘i, its spread is uncontrolled by pests, predation, or disease.

So what is KWP doing about it?  We have designated special areas on the mountain where our partners think it is possible to beat back the invasion and let the native forest dominate and thrive.  Pu‘u Pili at Kahua Ranch is one of those places, and we’ve cleared nearly 30 acres so far.

On this volunteer day, you will be instructed in The Ninja Way, following the Three Deadly Steps: Slice, Stack, Spray. Please bring along rain gear (essential!), warm clothes, boots or sturdy shoes that can get muddy, long pants and long-sleeved shirt (needed for safety during our work). Pack your lunch and water bottle in a backpack, and get ready for a day in the inspiring wet wilderness of Kohala Mountain.

Meet at The Kohala Center office (65-1291A Kawaihae Rd) in Waimea at 8:30, and we will carpool in the KWP 4×4 vehicles. We will return to Waimea by 3:30. Because this trip has limited seats, please RSVP only if you are prepared to join us rain or shine!