Help Preserve Hilo’s Wetlands at ʻĀina Hoʻolā

Join Community Efforts To Restore And Protect Hilo’s Wetlands

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ʻĀina Hoʻolā invites volunteers like you to take part in the preservation and rehabilitation of Hilo’s vital wetlands. Join the community for scheduled volunteer days to remove invasive species, plant native flora, and contribute to the long-term health of this essential ecosystem.

Age
All Ages
Duration
3-hour
Location
Aina Hoola, Hilo, Hawaii

Aʻohe hana nui ke alu ʻia

No task is too big when done together by all.

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3-Hour Preserve Hilo Wetlands at Aina Hoola

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Volunteer at ʻĀina Hoʻolā Wetlands in Hilo Features

Ainahoolainitiative Presever Hilo Wetlands At Aina Hoola Feature Restore

Ainahoolainitiative Presever Hilo Wetlands At Aina Hoola Feature Restore Vital

Restore Vital Wetland Ecosystems

Volunteers play a vital role in preserving and revitalizing Hilo's natural wetlands! From removing invasive plants to planting native species and supporting ongoing habitat restoration, every effort helps bring these incredible ecosystems back to life.

Ainahoolainitiative Presever Hilo Wetlands At Aina Hoola Feature Protect Native Bird

Ainahoolainitiative Presever Hilo Wetlands At Aina Hoola Feature Protect Plant Tree

Ainahoolainitiative Presever Hilo Wetlands At Aina Hoola Feature Protect Bird Habital

Protect Our Native Birds

Get to know the incredible native species we’re working to protect, like the ʻalae keʻokeʻo (Hawaiian coot) and the majestic nēnē (Hawaiian goose). Our restoration efforts are creating safe, thriving habitats for these extraordinary creatures—treasures found only in Hawai’i!

Ainahoolainitiative Presever Hilo Wetlands At Aina Hoola Feature Join Our Ohana Work Team

Join Our ‘Ohana

Become part of our ‘ohana and dive into the rewarding experience of restoring Keaukaha's wetlands. By volunteering with us, you'll play a key role in vital conservation efforts while immersing yourself in the beauty of our unique ecosystem. See the transformation firsthand as native species thrive and the wetlands spring back to life—all thanks to your hands-on dedication!

Volunteer at ʻĀina Hoʻolā Wetlands in Hilo Details

Highlights

Volunteer At ʻĀina Hoʻolā Wetlands In Hilo
Help Restore Wetland Habitats
Your Work Makes a Difference
Learn About This Unique Ecosystem

Family And Group Friendly
Tools And Gloves Provided
Light Lunch Provided On Community Days
Contribute To Hawaiʻi’s Ecosystem Health

Description

The ʻĀina Hoʻolā Wetlands Volunteer Days are held throughout the year to engage community members in the preservation and restoration of Hilo’s wetlands. These wetlands are crucial in filtering water, supporting native wildlife, and protecting the coastal environment from flooding and erosion.

Volunteers assist with tasks such as removing invasive species, planting native plants, and maintaining the overall health of the wetland ecosystem. The work contributes directly to preserving biodiversity in Hawaiʻi and supports efforts to restore native flora and fauna.

Each volunteer event is guided by knowledgeable team members who provide instructions and ensure all participants have the necessary tools and gloves. The monthly community volunteer days, held on designated dates, offer an additional benefit of a light lunch served after the work is complete, giving volunteers a chance to relax and reflect on their contributions.

This event is open to individuals, families, and groups; no prior experience is required. It’s a great opportunity to give back to the environment while learning more about the importance of wetlands in protecting Hawaiʻi’s natural resources.

Price & Availability

Price: Free of charge
Availability: Regular volunteer days are held on select weekdays and Saturdays. Monthly community volunteer days are indicated with bold dates and include a light lunch.
Upcoming dates:
December 16 (Monday), 9 am – 12 pm
December 23 (Monday), 9 am – 12 pm
December 30 (Monday), 9 am – 12 pm
January 6 (Monday), 9 am – 12 pm
January 13 (Monday), 9 am – 12 pm
January 18 (Saturday), 9 am – 12 pm
January 27 (Monday), 9 am – 12 pm
February 15 (Saturday), 9 am – 12 pm
March 15 (Saturday), 9 am – 12 pm

Itinerary

9:00 AM: Meet at the ʻĀina Hoʻolā Wetlands for introductions and a safety briefing.
9:15 AM: Begin volunteer work, including invasive plant removal and planting native species.
11:00 AM: Short break for water and snacks (bring your own).
11:15 AM: Continue with restoration work.
12:00 PM: Wrap up the day's activities. On monthly community days, enjoy a light lunch and discuss the work done.

Included

Gloves and tools for all volunteer activities.
No food or drinks provided on regular days. Please bring your own water and snacks. A light lunch is offered on monthly community volunteer days.

What To Bring

Comfortable clothing for outdoor work
Closed-toe shoes
Sunscreen and a hat
Reusable water bottle
Snacks

Additional Informations

What to wear and bring on a volunteer day:
Be prepared for changing weather conditions and wet/muddy/uneven terrain. We will be hand removing invasive weeds and may be replanting the area with native plants, rain or shine. Squatting, kneeling, and sitting are great weeding positions. The nearest restrooms are across the street at Kealoha Beach Park. Showers are also available at the park.

Lightweight quick-drying long sleeved shirt and lightweight quick-drying long pants that you don’t mind getting dirty. (Long sleeved shirt and long pants are recommended for sun, insect protection, and other reasons. There may be ants, mosquitoes, and centipedes. There may be some bending, lifting, and stretching as well. Some plants have sharp, microscopic bristles all over them to help discourage bugs from eating them. When these tiny bristles rub against your skin, a rash may result from the irritation. Children are particularly likely to get rashes from grass because they have more sensitive skin. This rarely happens but it is possible.)
Closed toed shoes, reef shoes, tabis, or diving boots that you don’t mind getting wet and muddy. (There may be broken pieces of glass and other sharp objects.)
Sun protection (A hat or cap, reef-friendly sunscreen, sun glasses, etc.)
Rainwear
Gloves and tools (hand weeders and serrated sickles) are provided but please bring your own if you have them.
Plenty of water in your own reusable bottle
Insect repellents (optional)
Change of clothes and footwear
A bag for wet/muddy clothes and footwear
A towel
Swimwear (optional) There is a beautiful beach park within a short walking distance. It is a great place to swim and see honu (green sea turtles) after the work is done.

Instructions: Volunteers should meet at the designated wetlands location at 9:00 AM for instructions and to receive tools. Be prepared for outdoor work and bring water and sun protection.

Restrictions: Family-friendly and open to all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Cancellation

This is a free event, but please notify the organizers in advance if you are unable to attend.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear for the wetland restoration day?

Wear comfortable outdoor clothing, closed-toe shoes, and bring sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.
Can I bring my family?

Yes! The event is family-friendly and welcomes participants of all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
What tools are provided?

Gloves and tools for the restoration work are provided by the organization
What if the weather is bad?

The event typically proceeds in light rain, but may be rescheduled in the event of severe weather. You will be notified in advance if changes occur.