This May, the Hawaiʻi Invasive Species Council proudly announces the commencement of Hawaiʻi Invasive Species Awareness Month (HISAM) 2024. This year’s theme, ‘Who protects Hawaiʻi? You do. Invasive species is everyone’s kuleana,’ spotlights the collective responsibility of our entire community in safeguarding our islands from invasive threats.
From fishpond restorers reviving ancient aquaculture, conservation workers in the field, and commodities inspectors at our ports, to educators shaping our future leaders, students expanding their knowledge, hālau connecting culture with conservation, and everyday outdoor enthusiasts like hikers, surfers, and fisherpeople, each group plays a crucial role. These community members not only champion biodiversity but also propagate practices that protect our ‘āina from invasive species.
A Month of Learning and Engagement
HISAM 2024 has a packed schedule, including a variety of educational webinars, the premiere of the ‘Who protects Hawaiʻi?’ video series, the HISAM awards, volunteer opportunities and community events. From discussions on the latest in conservation technologies to stories of grassroots initiatives making significant impacts, there is something for everyone this month.
➡️ See the full schedule of webinars & events at the HISAM 2024 page.
📜 Governor Green’s Proclamation and Recognition of Awardees
One of the highlights of this month’s activities will be on May 10th when Governor Green will sign a proclamation celebrating the exceptional contributions of this year’s HISAM awardees. This special event honors individuals and organizations who have demonstrated outstanding commitment in fighting invasive species across the islands.
🏆2024 HISAM Awardees
We are thrilled to recognize the following individuals and organizations for their dedicated efforts to combat invasive species. We will be highlighting more about these awardees after the proclamation and awards ceremony. Learn more about these community invasive species heros’ accomplishments & see pictures of the proclamation signing at the HISAM24 Awards blog post.
- Outstanding Business Leader– Keoki’s Paradise, Darin Tann for their leadership in protecting ʻŌhiʻa forests and raising awareness of Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death.
- Community Heroes – Joe Wat & Kapua Kawelo for their community organizing and work on little fire ant control on O’ahu.
- Greatest Hit – Melody Euaparadorn for stepping up to help coordinate extension work on little fire ant across the state.
- Hawaiʻi Island MVP – Deborah Chang for being an informed consumer and advocating for non-invasive plant sales to Hawai’i.
- Maui Nui MVP – David Dahlberg for recognizing and reporting the 1st coconut rhinoceros beetle found on Maui.
- Oʻahu MVP – Kimeona Kane for being a catalyst for change, advocating for measures to safeguard not only his immediate community but the entirety of Hawaiʻi.
- Kauaʻi MVP – Lei Wann for supporting and hosting countless malama ʻāina events on Kaua’i.
Join Us in Celebrating and Protecting Hawai’i
We invite everyone to join us for HISAM through our webinars, participate in community events, and help celebrate the achievements of our awardees. Let’s unite under the shared kuleana to protect our ‘aina from invasive species.
For more information on HISAM events, webinar registrations, and details on how you can get involved, please visit our official HISAM 2024 webpage.