Maui Cultural Lands, in collaboration with First Wind, is leading efforts to restore the native Hawaiian habitat at Kaheawa Wind Power, one of the largest wind farms in Hawai‘i. The wind farm, completed in 2012, generates 51 MW of power, supplying electricity to 18,700 homes while impacting the surrounding ecosystem. To mitigate this, the Lindsey ʻohana, whose ties to the area date back to the 1970s, has dedicated countless hours alongside volunteers to remove invasive species like ironwood, fireweed, and molasses grass—aggressive plants that choke out native flora and disrupt the balance of the land.

Every weekend, volunteers make the steep climb to McGregor Point, clearing invasive species and replanting the slopes with ʻaʻaliʻi, ʻōhiʻa lehua, pili grass, and other native species that once thrived there. Their efforts have led to the successful reintroduction of over 24,000 native plants, helping to regenerate the landscape. The ongoing stewardship of the area ensures that native plants continue to flourish while invasive species are kept at bay, working toward the ultimate goal of restoring the habitat to a pre-contact Hawaiian environment where indigenous plants can thrive once more.

Kaheawa-Hanaula Workday | Select Saturdays @ 9:00 AM