Please join the passionate community supporting Keauʻohana Rainforest as we work to restore the largest and most intact lowland forest (below 1,000 ft) remaining in the State of Hawaiʻi. By subscribing to HER’s monthly newsletter, you provide invaluable support to our mission and help make a meaningful difference.
If you feel called to deepen your involvement, we warmly welcome volunteers into the forest. Spending time in Keauʻohana offers a truly unique native lowland experience. Volunteers often have the special opportunity to plant native species, directly contributing to restoration efforts, while also helping to hand-pull and compost invasive plants that threaten the health of the ecosystem.
This is a rare chance to connect with native flora, gain hands-on knowledge, and feel empowered to take action against invasive species, from your own backyard to the broader environment we all share.
To get started, simply sign up for our monthly newsletter. While volunteering is deeply appreciated, even staying informed and connected through our updates provides essential support to HER.
Mahalo for being part of this important work.
Sign-Up to Volunteer!
Ways to Participate
- New Volunteers:
If you have not yet participated in an HER volunteer event, please begin by completing the contact form below. - Volunteer Waiver:
Please complete a volunteer waiver form prior to attending. You may email it to dupuis@hawaii.edu in advance, or bring a hard copy with you on the day of the event. If you anticipate volunteering again, we recommend listing “INDEFINITE” as the end period. - RSVP for Each Event:
To help us prepare, please RSVP before each event by emailing dupuis@hawaii.edu to let us know you will be attending. - What to Bring:
Please come prepared with long clothing, sturdy shoes or boots, a hat, gloves, rain gear, mosquito repellent, snacks, and drinking water. As there are no facilities on-site, bring toilet paper and a ziplock bag to pack out used paper products.
Safety Protocol
- The terrain consists of uneven, crumbly ʻaʻā substrate; sturdy footwear is essential. Walking sticks are encouraged, especially for those with less stable footing. Please avoid relying on native plants for balance.
- Due to the impacts of Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death (ROD), canopy cover is limited. Sun protection and adequate hydration are very important.
- This is a remote forest environment with no facilities. Please plan accordingly and pack out all waste.
- In the event of an emergency, an urgent care clinic is located in Pāhoa, less than five miles away. A CPR/First Aid-certified team member is typically present during volunteer days.
- Parking is available along Highway 130, with additional space near the intersection of Upper Puna Road above Black Sands Subdivision. While we have not experienced issues during organized events, roadside areas can occasionally be subject to vandalism. Please secure valuables and use discretion.
Keau’ohana Forest Reserve
Located between mile markers 16-17 on HWY 130, between Pahoa and Kalapana