Photo courtesy: The Nature Conservancy of Hawaii

Nature’s Bounty
Since its founding in 1980, The Nature Conservancy of Hawaii has worked with federal, state and private partners to protect more than 200,000 acres of ecologically rich areas throughout the Islands. While dedicated to the protection of Hawaii’s native forests and wildlife, the nonprofit organization is also committed to sharing its knowledge with the public. On Maui, it offers interpretive hikes on a regular basis into two nature preserves.

Both a cultural and ecological treasure, Kapunakea Preserve contains 24 species of rare and endangered plants, including the only known kauila tree on Maui, which was sought after by ancient spear makers for its very strong wood. Pueo, the revered Hawaiian short-eared owl, also has a habitat here. The hike, led by volunteers on the first Saturday of each month, runs for close to four miles through West Maui’s Honokowai Valley.

Meanwhile, the Waikamoi Preserve hike takes place on the second Saturday of every month, beginning at the Hosmer Grove campground of Haleakala National Park. This trail starts in a pine tree plantation and continues for about three miles, emerging into a well-preserved Hawaiian rainforest. In this windswept, sub-alpine climate, hikers are surrounded by towering ohia and koa trees, flush with bright bursts of red and yellow blossoms. Birders also flock here to catch glimpses of such native forest birds as the crimson apapane and chartreuse alauahio.

Both hikes start at 9 a.m. — reservations are required and donations are suggested. For more information, call (808) 572-7849.