The Punahoa Heritage Forest has completed an eight-acre ungulate-proof fence in Hilo, protecting vulnerable native ecosystems from damage and invasive species. It’s a vital step toward forest restoration, cultural education, and community renewal.

Mahalo Piha for celebrating with us to plant seeds of hope to save the ʻŌhiʻa Lehua, the sacred heart of our forests and honor two very special leaders who have dedicated 30 years of their lives in service - Roberta Jahrling and Rev. Kealahou Alika. To Ke Akua Mahalo for all the blessings for all who have created such a beautiful image of love. Mahalo for planting the seeds of hope through the Pūʻā Foundation in so many ways. We thank you for the priceless gift of the Punahoa Heritage Forest and the ohia lehua which calls us to healing through responding to the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor. Mahalo for the nourishment of such a wonderful gathering and we go forth as ohana transforming our shared vulnerability into our collective nā puʻuwai - our aloha loving hearts.

Pūʻā Foundation and Punahoa Heritage Forest joined researchers, educators, and community leaders at the 2025 Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death (ROD) Outreach Workshop to share how cultural restoration and forest stewardship come together to heal both ʻāina and community.