Vision​​

Sanctuary is rooted in restoring the integrity of native Hawaiian ecosystems, specifically focusing on the upland forest realms  - Wao Nahele and Wao Kele - of Haleakalā. The restoration effort is guided by principles of kuleana (responsibility), reciprocity, and ecological wholeness, recognizing that the health of land, water, and living beings are deeply interconnected. The vision is not only to restore native species and ecosystems but also to rekindle sustainable relationships between people and ʻāina (land)—creating a model of cultural, ecological, and spiritual renewal.

 

Current Project Area​​

The current project area is located directly mauka of Kēōkea town, at about 4000 feet elevation. The total project area currently encompasses approximately 50 acres. This area forms part of the larger Kēōkea-Waiohuli watershed, a region critical for:

• Freshwater recharge

• Habitat for native species

• Resilience against wildfire and climate change

 

Ecological Focus

Restoration priorities include:

• Native forest regeneration – planting and protecting species such as koa (Acacia koa), koaiʻa (Acacia koaia), ‘ohi’a, ‘iliahi (Santalum haleakalae) and other native canopy and understory species.

• Biodiversity protection – supporting habitats for native birds, pollinators, and soil organisms.

• Watershed health – improving infiltration, reducing erosion, and strengthening the hydrological cycle.

• Fire resilience – reducing invasive grass fuels and creating green firebreaks with native species.

 

Cultural and Community Integration​​

The project acknowledges that ecological restoration is inseparable from cultural renewal. Activities include:

• Engaging people in stewardship of the land.

• Sharing ecological knowledge.

• Partnerships with restoration and conservation organizations across Hawaiʻi to align with state and federal conservation goals (e.g., Hawai‘i DLNR, USDA NRCS, USFWS).

 

Long Term Goals

1. Establish a thriving native forest ecosystem across Haleakalā 

2. Build community-based stewardship capacity, ensuring local families and practitioners are supported in ongoing care.

3. Contribute to climate resilience by enhancing carbon sequestration and ecosystem services -- particularly maximum co-operative biodiversity, fresh water generation and aquifer recharge.

4. Serve as a model for bio-cultural restoration, where land, people, and spirit are restored together.

​​

Want to get involved? Learn more about restoration apprenticeships here.