HomeMy WebLinkAbout2017-03-23 Letter to Mark Nakashima re Hawaiian Reforestation Project's request for a Grant-in-Aid • op .
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March 23, 2017
Honorable Mark Nakashima
Representative
Hawai'i State House of Representatives
Honolulu, Havvai`i 96813
Dear Representative Nakashima,
The County of Hawai'i is pleased to offer strong support for the Hawaiian Reforestation
Project's request for a Grant-in-Aid.
For several centuries the slopes of Mauna Kea were neglected and used as a resource for
mankind with little or no thought to maintaining the natural resources. The mountain's once
densely forested slopes were denuded through the indiscriminate taking of sandalwood, ohia,
koa and mamane. Domesticated and feral cattle, sheep, goats and mouflon grazed much of
what was left of the native plants, and the rats and mongoose ate the seeds and stole the eggs
of the native bird species.
A sad history, but today great strides are being taken to fulfill a vision to reforest Mauna Kea
and provide a safe habitat for the native birds including the Pa|i|a. The Hawaiian Reforestation
Project is a multi-agency initiative led by the Division of Forestry and Wildlife and the Pacific
Cooperative Studies Unit. Volunteers from across the state connect with the land and
participate in restoring the forest by lending a hand in planting, weeding, watering, while
learning about the important role that the forest serves in providing habitat for a wide range of
birds and insects, as well as its role in protecting the soil from storm run-off and replenishing
the island's watersheds.
Your consideration and support for the Hawaiian Reforestation Project's request for financial
support is most appreciated.
Sin erel
Harry
cc: Andy Levin
County of Hawaii is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.