Celebrate Earth Day at Pohakuloa

A virtual lava tube tour and a chance to see one of Hawaii’s few spiked native plants are two of the many highlights at this year’s U.S. Army Garrison-Pohakuloa Earth Day celebration open to the public from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday at the training area.

There will be hands-on activities and educational displays at the free event. The Army’s natural resources team will explain the management of threatened and endangered species through a number of displays, games and garden tours. During garden tours, visitors can view some of the unique plants managed at PTA, such as the spiny popolo — one of Hawaii’s few spiked native plants.

There also will be a series of talks about the biology and natural ecology of the area. The Army’s cultural resources team will have a variety of displays showcasing efforts to manage and preserve cultural resources.

Aside from the virtual lava tube tour, visitors also will get to see the tools and technology Army archaeologists use. Visitors can try on archaeologists’ cave equipment, such as helmets, headlamps and knee pads. Keiki can become archaeologists-in-training during a mock dig activity and a petroglyph learning experience. There also will be a talk-story about the history of the Saddle Region.

Other Earth Day stations at the event will include Army Fire and Emergency Services with fire equipment, vehicles and a hands-on exhibit focusing on wild-land fire prevention and suppression.

The PTA main gate entrance is off Saddle Road at Mauna Kea Loop near Mauna Kea State Park. Visitors must show current photo identification at the main gate. Drivers must have a current license, registration, safety inspection and proof of insurance.

Groups of 10 or more, or individuals requesting special accommodations, should call 969-2403 for assistance.