Plant trees on Mauna Loa

Volunteers are needed to plant native seedlings at a Friends of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park forest restoration project from 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday.

“Plantings will take place in an area of the Mauna Loa strip where natural regeneration of the forest has not occurred,” explained Mark Johnson, who co-chairs the Friends’ Forest Restoration Committee.

“We need help to plant a total of 600 seedlings from nine different species in an open area surrounded by native forest. We’ll also learn about the park’s native forest restoration program,” he said.

Volunteers should be at least 12 years old and be able to hike at least one mile over uneven terrain through brush in an area with a moderate slope. Sturdy walking shoes and long pants are required, along with gear for variable weather conditions (be prepared for sun or rain with a hat, raincoat and sunscreen) plus drinking water and a bag lunch.

The goal is a crew of 14 people, and pre-registration is required. All participants will need to sign a Friends release form and a park volunteer form. For those under 18, an adult will need to co-sign.

“Also imperative is scrubbing the soles of one’s shoes prior to arrival on site, in order to ensure outside dirt and invasive species seeds aren’t tracked in,” Johnson said.

To register, please call the Friends at 985-7373 or email forest@fhvnp.org. Instructions on where to meet will be provided upon registration. Additional details are available at www.fhvnp.org.