Group News: Hawaiʻi Island Group, Maui, and Oʻahu
Hawaiʻi Island Group
Hike Leaders Needed!
Do you love exploring the outdoors and sharing its beauty with others? The Sierra Club Hawaiʻi Island Group is looking for passionate individuals to join us as volunteer outings leaders!
Our outings leaders guide hikes and service projects that connect community members to the stunning landscapes of Hawaiʻi Island while fostering a deeper appreciation for mālama ʻāina. Whether you’re experienced in leading groups or simply eager to learn, we’ll provide the training and support you need to succeed.
Why become an outings leader?
Inspire others to cherish and protect Hawaiʻi’s unique ecosystems.
Enjoy opportunities to explore new trails and sites.
Build community with like-minded outdoor enthusiasts.
Together, we can make a difference—on the trail and for the planet. If you’re ready to step up and lead, we’d love to hear from you!
Email our outings chair, Diane Ware, at volcanogetaway@yahoo.com to learn more.
Let’s explore and protect Hawaiʻi together!
Try Wait: Reviving Kapu to Restore Kaʻūpūlehu’s Reef
By Kara Dumaguin, Hawaiʻi Island Group Vice Chair
In 2016, the community of Kaʻūpūlehu on Hawaiʻi Island initiated a bold act of restoration: a 10-year rest period from fishing and gathering along 3.6 miles of coastline. Known as Try Wait, this effort draws deeply from the Native Hawaiian practice of kapu—a system that placed temporary restrictions on certain areas or resources to allow them time to recover.
Nearly nine years in, the signs of renewal are visible. Native reef fish are more abundant. ʻOpihi are returning to the intertidal zone. Coral colonies impacted by warming temperatures are regaining structure and life. The results reflect what generations have known: when we rest the reef, the reef can restore itself.
This wasn’t just about conservation; it was about restoring abundance. One well-known example comes from King Kamehameha I, who placed a 10-year kapu on cattle so the population could grow. Try Wait follows in this legacy of leadership and foresight—recognizing that when we give, the ocean gives back.
Kaʻūpūlehu, a storied ahupuaʻa in North Kona, has long sustained generations of lawaiʻa, gatherers, and families with ancestral ties to this coastline. Kūpuna have helped guide this rest period with ʻike passed down through time, while youth are stepping into their roles as future stewards. This intergenerational approach, rooted in place, ensures the values of kapu remain alive and evolving.
Hui Kāhuwai, a nonprofit born from this effort, continues to expand the work through education, cultural grounding, and community engagement. It serves as a vessel for place-based stewardship and generational knowledge—elevating the voices of ʻohana with ancestral ties to Kaʻūpūlehu, while also collaborating with scientists and partners committed to mālama ʻāina and mālama kai.
With the Try Wait period set to end in 2026, community leaders are working to develop an adaptive fisheries management plan. Adaptive management is rooted in listening, learning, and adjusting—it recognizes that no single rule can meet all conditions. As fishing pressure, ocean temperatures, and ecosystem needs shift over time, the ability to respond based on both science and ʻike kupuna is key to lasting abundance.
To learn more or share your manaʻo, visit trywait.info. The reef is healing—try wait, and witness what is possible when we honor the wisdom of our kūpuna.
Hawaiʻi County Draft General Plan Shows Hokuliʻa Project Plans to Build Luxury Homes on Sacred Puʻu ʻOhau
By Chuck Flaherty, Hawaiʻi Island Group Chair
The Hawaiʻi County General Plan Comprehensive Review process is entering its last phase, with the Final Draft General Plan 2045 (GP2045) now before the Hawaiʻi County Council for discussion and decision-making.
Click to enlarge.
Tragically, the GP2045 Land Use Map continues to show the Hokuliʻa project developers’ intent to build five luxury homes and roads on Puʻu ʻOhau—a sacred burial site. This plan violates Article XII, Section 7 of the Hawaiʻi State Constitution and a long-standing Hawaiʻi Supreme Court precedent.
A History of Commitments and Violations
In 1998, Hokuliʻa submitted a preliminary subdivision plat map explicitly stating that no construction would occur on the puʻu.
In 1999, lineal descendants, the Hawaiʻi Island Burial Council (HIBC), and the Department of Land and Resources (DLNR) formally determined that the entirety of Puʻu ʻOhau was to be treated as a burial site. The HIBC further directed that a six-foot rock wall be built at its base. Puʻu ʻOhau was also declared a royal mausoleum, as it contains the royal crypt of the grandmother of Queen Liliʻuokalani and King Kalākaua, alongside hundreds of other burials. It is considered one of the most sacred sites in Hawaiʻi.
In 2000, after massive muddy runoff from Hokuliʻa construction polluted pristine coral reefs and coastal waters, local residents—supported by the Sierra Club's Keep Kealakekua Wild—filed for a temporary restraining order and injunction. The Third Circuit Court halted all construction until mitigation measures were put in place. During the shutdown, Hokuliʻa quietly submitted updated subdivision maps that added five house lots and roads on the northern slope of Puʻu ʻOhau, directly violating the 1999 HIBC determination.
In early 2001, due to continued desecration of burial sites, Native Hawaiian organization Protect Keopuka ‘Ohana (PKO) joined the lawsuit. A second stop-work order was issued in March 2001 until enhanced burial protections were implemented.
In September 2001, DLNR issued a cease-and-desist order for construction on Puʻu ʻOhau. The following month, PKO and DLNR reached a legal settlement: DLNR agreed to enforce the HIBC’s 1999 recommendation to protect Puʻu ʻOhau and construct a protective wall at its base.
In 2003, the Third Circuit Court ruled that the Hokuliʻa development was an illegal use of agricultural land and required the developer to petition the state Land Use Commission (LUC) for district reclassification.
As part of the 2006 legal settlement, Hokuliʻa agreed to reclassify the area containing the five lots and roads on Puʻu ʻOhau into the Conservation District, effectively abandoning the development of homes on the sacred site.
Their LUC petition (Docket No. A06-769) explicitly stated:
“Another significant protective measure concerns the burial site of Kamaʻeokalani, near the summit of Puʻu ʻOhau, which is a significant historic and cultural site. This site is located within the Conservation District and outside the Petition Area. In order to provide an additional buffer around this site, Petitioner has agreed to abandon the development of five previously subdivided lots presently within the Agricultural District along the current Conservation District boundary. The area included in such lots is part of the area for which the instant Petition seeks reclassification to the Conservation District. Petitioner will also construct a gated wall or other buffer to restrict access to, and to protect and preserve the burial site of Kamaeʻokalani and other cultural resources within the buffered area.
These mitigation measures will ensure that traditional and customary native Hawaiian rights, customs and practices will be preserved and protected in a feasible manner.” [emphasis added]
However, the LUC required a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) before the petition could be deemed complete—since the Final EIS was already 13 years old. To this day, nearly two decades later, Hokuliʻa has failed to produce the SEIS. As a result, the petition remains incomplete.
Developer’s Broken Promise
In 2015, Hokuliʻa filed for bankruptcy. The developer now claims:
The 2006 settlement agreement and petition statements are no longer binding
The five lots on Puʻu ʻOhau do not need to be placed into Conservation
Development of the homes and roads on Puʻu ʻOhau can proceed
This violates not only the spirit of the settlement but also the state constitution, which reaffirms the protection of traditional and customary Native Hawaiian practices. Hawaiʻi courts have consistently ruled that such practices must be “preserved and protected to the extent feasible.”
A Call for Accountability
As the County Council considers the GP2045 maps, the area encompassing Puʻu Ohau has not been recommended by the Planning Director for reclassification into the Conservation District. It remains designated “Rural,” enabling the construction of homes and roads on this sacred site.
Given Hokuliʻa’s own written statements to the LUC—acknowledging that Conservation reclassification “will ensure that traditional and customary Native Hawaiian rights... will be preserved and protected”—the current GP2045 map designation is legally and morally indefensible.
The Sierra Club Hawaiʻi Island Group strongly urges the County Planning Director and the County Council to uphold their constitutional obligations and amend the GP2045 Land Use Map to move this area into the Conservation District.
Protecting Puʻu Ohau is not just about honoring past promises—it’s about safeguarding Native Hawaiian burial rights, cultural practices, and sacred places for generations to come.
Maui Group
Support Sierra Club Maui’s Plant Sale – Donate, Volunteer, or Come Shop!
By Raina Myers, Maui Group Volunteer Coordinator
We’re excited to announce the date of our beloved Annual Plant Sale Fundraiser, on Sunday, May 18, 2025, from 8:30am to 2:30pm at 55 Ulumalu Rd, Haʻikū— and we need your help to make it a success!
Whether you're a green thumb, a conservationist, or just love supporting your local community, this event is a great opportunity to connect, learn, and give back.
About the Plant Sale:
Plant lovers, families, and gardeners alike can browse and purchase from a wide array of native plants, succulents, houseplants, pollinator-friendly varieties, and ornamentals, all lovingly propagated by local growers and volunteers.
Proceeds will directly fund our grassroots work to protect Maui’s unique ecosystems — including stream flow restoration, trail maintenance, invasive species removal, and community education initiatives.
How You Can Help:
Donate Plants
Have cuttings, veggie starts, or extra potted plants to share? Please donate them between May 12–17 at 55 Ulumalu Rd, Haʻikū. Native and pollinator-friendly plants are especially appreciated!
For donation questions, text Scott Werden at (206) 399-3616 or scott.werden@sierraclub.org.
Volunteer at the Sale
We need helping hands to assist with setup, customer support, and cleanup. Just a few hours of your time can make a big impact.
To volunteer, email raina.myers@sierraclub.org.
Come Shop & Connect!
Pick up beautiful plants for your home or garden
Learn about our campaigns and volunteer programs
Support local environmental action!
Event Details:
55 Ulumalu Rd, Haʻikū (turn mauka at Jaws Store)
Sunday, May 18, 2025
8:30am – 2:30pm
This is more than a fundraiser — it’s a celebration of community, sustainability, and aloha ʻāina. We hope you’ll join us and spread the word!
South Maui’s Future is on the Table – May 27 Forum
By Raina Myers, Maui Group Volunteer Coordinator
The Maui County Council is reviewing the South Maui Community Plan, which will guide development, infrastructure, and conservation decisions for the next 20 years. This is our chance to make sure the plan reflects the needs of local people, native ecosystems, and future generations.
Join us for a free community roundtable forum to talk story and speak out on the big issues:
Tuesday, May 27
6-7:30pm
ProArts Playhouse (Azeka Makai), Kīhei
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85245825933
Topics include:
7,000+ new housing units: Who are they really for?
Water supply and stream protection
Flooding and sea level rise
Traffic and sprawl
The evening will feature expert panelists and open community dialogue and light refreshments will be provided. Let’s ensure the South Maui Community Plan protects what we love and provides for the people who live here.
Limited to 100 seats, RSVP here or catch the livestream on the Zoom link above!
Upcoming Outings
Saturday, May 10
Makawao Forest Trail Maintenance Day (S)
Upcountry, 3 miles
Join us for a rewarding day of trail maintenance in the beautiful Kahakapao Forest Reserve in Makawao! The Kahakapao Krew will be working to preserve and improve the trails that wind through this lush forest, ensuring they remain accessible, safe, and enjoyable for everyone. We will be hosted this month by Maui Mountain Bike Coalition! Volunteers will help with tasks such as excavating trail sides, removing excess dirt, and clearing overgrowth to ensure the trail is safe and accessible. Tools like McLeods and Pulaskis will be provided, and volunteers will be trained on how to use them safely. This is a hands-on opportunity to help mālama ‘āina and contribute to the long-term sustainability of our natural areas. Please bring sturdy, closed-toe boots, water bottle to stay hydrated, protective clothing (long sleeves, hat, bug spray, sunscreen), work gloves if you have them (we'll also provide some). If you have any questions or need more information, please contact Raina at 330-289-1087.
Leader: Raina Myers, raina.myers@sierraclub.org
Sign up
Sunday, May 11
White Cross Wailuku
North Shore, 1.5 miles
Strenuous uphill hike with great views. Bring lunch and water. Meet at 8am. Take Main St. toward ʻĪao Valley, then take the left fork toward Wailuku Heights, a short distance to a large water tank. Park at the water tank (trailhead nearby). Limit 10.
Leader: Mark Short, shortonmaui@gmail.com
Sign up
Sunday, May 18
Makamaka‘ole Stream (13 Crossings) (C/E)
North Shore, 2.4 miles
Beautiful hike with many stream crossings and waterfall-fed pools. Trekking poles are recommended due to loose rocks in the stream and potentially wet trails if there has been recent rainfall. Bring water, snacks/lunch, water shoes, and swimsuit. Limit 10. Meet at Waiehu Golf Course parking lot at 8am to carpool.
Leader: Ann Schultz, acm_schultz@hotmail.com or 808-344-6628
Sign up
Sunday May 18, 2025
Hana‘ula Ridge Hike and Service Outing (C/E/S)
Māʻalaea, 1 mile
Help Maui Cultural Lands maintain native plant habitat on state land near Kaheawa Wind Farm. Hike to ʻōhiʻa forest nearby and enjoy panoramic views. More information from our host here. Wear covered shoes, long pants, clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, and a rain jacket. Dress for cold, you can always unlayer. Bring lunch and gloves. Meet 8:30am at Mā‘alaea Ocean Center parking lot (Carl’s Jr. end). You will need to print and bring with you the completely (front/back) signed waiver found here. Four wheel drive vehicles needed for access, please contact the leader if you have 4WD. If we do not have sufficient 4WD vehicles (have to fit into the cab), we may have to restrict participation or even cancel. Limit 19. Leader: Rob Weltman, robw@worldspot.com
Sign up
Friday May 23, 2025
Palauʻea Archaeological Service Outing
South Maui (Palauʻea), 2 miles
It's time for a gentle spring cleaning for a handful of very special archeological sites in the ahupuaʻa of Palauʻea. Winter rains have sprouted a carpet of non-native vines and grasses that are covering the beautifully constructed ancient rock work of these ancient sites. Guidance in proper archaeological protocols and all tools will be provided. Historic structures to be cleaned include a traditional habitation terrace, a rock shelter and two ceremonial sites. Fun and satisfying way to spend an afternoon.
Leader: Lucienne de Naie, huelogrl@icloud.com
Sign up
Saturday, May 24
Kōkua Day at Fleming Arboretum, Pu‘u Mahoe (C/E/S)
ʻUlupalakua, 1 miles
Help maintain the Fleming Arboretum at 2600 feet in ʻUlupalakua, sanctuary to many endangered native dry land forest plants. Awesome views of Keoneʻoʻio (La Perouse) coast and Kahoʻolawe. Bring a light jacket, lunch, and gloves. It is recommended to have shoes with ankle support in case we are working on uneven ground. Meet at 9am at the ʻUlupalakua Ranch Store. Estimate 3 hours of work. Refreshments available. A BYO lunch will be at the Fleming cabin with a great view of South Maui. Limit 20.
Leader: Rob Weltman, robw@worldspot.com
Sign up
Saturday, May 31
Hāmākua Mālama Service Outing (C/E/S)
Ha‘ikū, 2 miles
Help clear away abandoned rubbish from gulches in Ha‘ikū’s Hāmākua Coastal Preserve and replant native species. Tools, snacks, trash bags, etc will be provided. Co-sponsored by Mālama Hāmākua.
Leader: Lucienne de Naie, huelogrl@icloud.com
Sign up
Sunday, June 1
Waiheʻe Coastal Dunes and Wetlands Refuge (C/E)
Waihe‘e, 3 miles
This area was acquired by the Hawaiʻi Land Trust to keep it from development. Easy 3-mile loop along coast and through forest. Covered shoes recommended on this rocky coast. There are archaeological features, unspoiled views, and we may see whales, monk seals, turtles, Hawaiian birds, and native plants. We will stop for a snack and to enjoy the views and soak in the river.
Leader: shortonmaui@gmail.com or 808-276-3226
Sign up
Oʻahu Group
Join Us For A Summer Pau Hana!
Aloha Sierra Club Oʻahu Group members and supporters,
Are you free in August and searching for a community? The Oʻahu Group is planning for an end-of-summer pau hana and we would love to see you there!
If you would like to attend, please call/text me at 808-255-6663 or email me at junshinbusiness729@gmail.com.
Hope to see you there!
Me ke aloha pumehana,
Jun Shin, Chair
Upcoming Outings
Sunday, May 11
Mālama Tree Crew: Pālehua Service Project
Join us to clear debris, weed, and water around 75 newly planted native trees in the Akupu Enclosure in the Gill Ewa Lands (GEL). GEL encompasses 1,600 acres in the southern tip of the Wai‘anae mountains dedicated to preserving the land's important biological, cultural, economic and historical resources. The Akupu Enclosure provides habitat for endangered ʻelepaio to nest. Meet at 7:45am at Makakilo Community Park, near the top of Makakilo Drive. We will work from 8am-11pm. To help you prepare, we suggest wearing long sleeves, pants, and closed toe shoes. Although we provide tools, you might prefer to bring your favorite tool and gloves. Remember to pack water, a snack, and insect repellent. Reservations are required at least one day prior, so please RSVP to sherrycassetta@gmail.com with your full name and phone number.
Leader: Sherry Cassetta
Friday, May 23 to Monday, May 26
Hakalau National Wildlife Refuge, Hawaiʻi Island
Join us at the Hakalau National Wildlife Refuge, located on the slopes of Mauna Kea on Hawaiʻi Island, to help restore and promote the Native Hawaiian environment—home to many endangered plants and birds found nowhere else in the world. Accommodations are in a well-equipped cabin at 6,200 feet elevation, with electricity, running water, a flush toilet, hot shower, kitchen, and bunk beds with mattresses. Participants must bring their own sleeping bags. Due to the high elevation, cold and wet weather is always a possibility, so please pack warm clothing, sturdy footwear, and good-quality rain gear. Free time may include a hike through the koa-ʻōhiʻa forest to observe native forest birds. To sign up or request more information, contact trip leader Clyde Kobashigawa at clydekobashigawa@hawaii.rr.com. Please include your first and last name and phone number in your message.
Sunday, May 25
Wāwāmalu Beach Service Project
Help return Wāwāmalu Beach to its native/natural status after years of off-road abuse and inattention. Seed collection and sowing, as well as removal of invasive plants on tap. Personal pickaxes welcome. Bring closed-toe shoes/boots, gardening gloves, sunscreen and water flask (iced refill available, no plastic water available). Meet 9am at the southwest access area just off to the left from the northeast driveway to Sandy Beach. Google Maps calls it ”Sandy Beach Park Fishing”. Limited to 24 participants out of concern for the delicate planting environment. Participants under 18 require a parent or guardian. Please reserve your spot by emailing wrliggett@yahoo.com.
Leaders: Reese Liggett and Suzan Harada
Sunday, June 1
Mālama Tree Crew: Ala Mahamoe Service Project
Recognizing the crucial role of protecting Hawaii's watershed in preserving its unique ecosystems and providing fresh water resources, we continue to care for the area where the Sierra Club Oʻahu Group and its partners planted over 1,000 trees. Our efforts will involve watering, weeding, and clearing debris to ensure these young trees thrive. Meet us at 8am by the gate located between 1800 and 1812 Ala Mahamoe St. To ensure you're prepared, please wear long pants, a long-sleeve shirt, water, a hat, sunscreen, gloves, and covered shoes. Bringing your favorite tool is optional as others will be available. We anticipate finishing our work between 10:30am and 11am. Reservations are required at least one day prior, so please RSVP to sherrycassetta@gmail.com with your full name and phone number.
Leader: Sherry Cassetta