A partnership of agencies is expanding a trail steward program statewide after a successful pilot on Hawaii Island, according to a news release.
The Na Manu Elele Program first launched at Pololu Valley on Hawaii Island in 2022. Trail stewards spoke with hikers and visitors to educate them about native plants and animals, the cultural and historical significance, safety concerns and caring for the valley. Because of the program, there has been a reduction in hiking accidents, instances of illegal camping and parking violations.
The program is a partnership between Kupu, Hawaii’s largest youth-focused conservation and sustainability nonprofit, the U.S. Economic Development Administration, the Hawaii Tourism Authority, and the Department of Land and Natural Resources.
Through HTA’s partnership and funding from EDA, statewide expansion of the program began in Dec. 2023. Program administrators plan to hire more than 20 stewards through 2026.
Aaron Lowe, Na Ala Hele Trails and Access Program Specialist who supervises stewards on Oahu, spoke highly of the program. “People are enjoying the interaction and education from stewards. Visitors are walking away with a new appreciation and understanding of the plants, animals and place itself.”
Daniel Nāhoʻopiʻi, HTA interim President & Chief Executive Officer, described how the program is a form of regenerative tourism. “Hiring kamaaina who want to step up and protect the special places in their communities is a very tangible, direct manifestation of the regenerative tourism model that we are working toward for Hawaii.”
The Na Manu Elele Program is accepting applications for sites on Maui and Kauai and on a rolling basis for other islands. Find more information about applying here: kupuhawaii.org/na-manu-elele.
Michelle Broder Van Dyke covers the Hawaiian Islands for Spectrum News Hawaii. Email her at michelle.brodervandyke@charter.com.