Field Programs, Research & Community Engagement

Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death (ROD) Surveillance & Forest Health Monitoring

Current efforts are informed in part through ongoing educational engagement with Dr. J.B. Friday and Hawaiʻi Island ROD outreach initiatives.

Fog Water Capture Feasibility Study

(FogQuest-Aligned)

Evaluation of fog collection systems for cloud water interception and potential community application
(methodologies provided by Robert S. Schemenauer).

Fungal Network & Decomposition Dynamics Monitoring

Documentation of mycorrhizal presence, fungal fruiting cycles, decomposition activity, and post-storm nutrient cycling processes.

KCFC’s ongoing fieldwork integrates ecological observation, native forest regeneration, watershed monitoring, fungal network documentation, and community-based stewardship within a living montane cloud forest system on Hawaiʻi Island.

Acacia Koa Seedling Establishment & Recruitment Monitoring

Multi-site tracking of natural and assisted regeneration across elevation and microhabitat gradients.

Perimeter Protection & Invasive Species Pressure Mitigation

Infrastructure development and monitoring aimed at reducing ungulate intrusion and invasive species impacts.

Phenology Tracking (Flowering, Fruiting, Growth Cycles)

Time-series observation of plant reproductive cycles, seasonal shifts, and climate-responsive growth patterns.

Active Projects

Onsite Acacia Koa Nursery & Community Distribution Pilot

Small-scale propagation supporting restoration efforts and future community distribution of native plant species.

Baseline Biodiversity Inventory & Ecological Documentation

Systematic cataloging of flora, fungi, avian activity, and ecological interactions to establish a long-term observational dataset.

Pay It Forward Initiative - Community Tea Basket

A community stewardship project featuring locally sourced teas, books, and music shared through a pass-it-forward model that encourages connection, reciprocity, and community resilience.

Trusted Partners & Recognition

Koa Cloud Forest Conservancy is grateful for the organizations, agencies, and community partners whose support strengthens our ability to protect Hawaiʻi's native cloud forests. These relationships expand our capacity, improve transparency, and increase the resources available to support long-term conservation, education, and stewardship.