HONOLULU (KHON2) — The Kahoolawe Island Reserve Commission (KIRC) has announced a historic milestone: the first confirmed discovery of a nesting site for Hawaiian green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas), known as honu, on Kahoolawe.
Get Hawaii’s latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You
This significant achievement follows a routine access visit and marks a crucial advancement in conservation efforts for this threatened species, which is listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).
“This discovery is not just a win for the ecological restoration of Kahoolawe; it symbolizes hope for the recovery of the Hawaiian green sea turtle population and the island’s remarkable capacity for healing,” said Michael Nahoopii, KIRC’s Executive Director. “Witnessing this return of life to the island’s shores is a testament to the progress we’ve made in restoring the health of Kahoolawe.”
Duke’s Ukes competition returns to Kahala Mall
For the past two decades, KIRC has focused on removing invasive buffelgrass from Honokanaia beach and replanting native akiaki grass. Dr. Sheldon Plentovich, Pacific Islands Coastal Program Coordinator with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, noted the impact of this restoration.