After Dark in the Park at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

Posted on May 1, 2013 by Damon

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park continues its tradition of sharing Hawaiian culture and After Dark in the Park programs with the community and visitors in May. All programs are free, but park entrance fees apply. Mark the calendar for these upcoming events:

  • Lei Making, Wili-Style. Volcano resident and hula student Kanoe Awong shares the traditional wili style of lei making using liko lehua. Learn how to transform the leaves and flower buds of the ‘ōhi‘a lehua tree into beautiful lei. These trees are currently in bloom throughout the park, and its signature red blossom is the official flower of the island of Hawai‘i. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes’ ongoing ‘Ike Hana No‘eau “Experience the Skillful Work” workshops. Free. When: Wed., May 8 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.  Where: Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai
Whose footprints are these? (NPS Photo)

Whose footprints are these? (NPS Photo)

  • Whose Footprints Are These Really? Research suggests the story behind the fossilized human footprints in the Ka‘ū Desert may be more complex than originally thought. Footprints found in desert ash layers were believed to have been created in 1790 by the army of the Hawaiian Chief Keōua on their way back from battle. While in the area, Kīlauea erupted, sending suffocating ash down on one group. Others made it out alive, leaving their footprints in the then-wet ash. The ash dried, forever memorializing this event…or did it? Join Dr. Jadelyn Moniz-Nakamura as she examines fascinating geologic evidence that may indicate much more prehistoric activity in the area. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes’ ongoing After Dark in the Park series. Free. When: Tues., May 14 at 7 p.m.  Where: Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium
  • Lei Making, Hilo-Style with Ti Leaf. Malia Macabio and Amy Kaawaloa demonstrate how to make the Hilo style of lei by twisting two strands of ti leaves together. Hula dancers use lei lā‘ī (ti leaf lei) to adorn their wrists and necks. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes’ ongoing ‘Ike Hana No‘eau “Experience the Skillful Work” workshops. Free. When: Wed., May 22 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.  Where: Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai

 

 

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Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Invites Everyone to Hikes & Programs Offered During National Park Week

Posted on April 16, 2013 by Damon

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park invites everyone to join special hikes and programs offered at the park during National Park Week, April 20-28. Entrance fees are waived Monday through Friday, April 22-26.

This year’s theme, “Did You Know,” provides a fun way to get to know the park, for both visitors and local residents. For example, did you know that Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is 520 square miles, nearly as large as the entire island of O‘ahu (597 square miles)?

The special, free programs during National Park Week include the following. Please wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants. Bring a hat, raingear, day pack, snacks and water.

Kīlauea Iki trail and crater will be explored in the Kīlauea Ik hike with Charlene Meyers on April 23, during National Park Week. NPS Photo/Michael Szoenyi.

Kīlauea Iki trail and crater will be explored in the Kīlauea Ik hike with Charlene Meyers on April 23, during National Park Week. NPS Photo/Michael Szoenyi.

Kīlauea Iki Crater Hike. Join master ranger volunteer Charlene Meyers on an invigorating four-mile, three-hour hike through the rain forest and onto the crater floor of Kīlauea Iki. Learn how the 1959 eruption forever changed this landscape.
Where: Meet Charlene at the Kīlauea Iki Overlook Parking lot (on Crater Rim Drive)
When: Tuesday, April 23 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Amazing Mauna Ulu. Explore fascinating volcanic features like fissures and lava trees that were formed during the 1969-74 Mauna Ulu eruption with master ranger volunteer Noel Eberz. The one-mile, one-hour round-trip hike will highlight the amazing process of plant survival on this harsh lava landscape.
Where: Meet Noel at the Mauna Ulu parking lot, four miles down Chain of Craters Road.
When: Wednesday, April 24 at 11 a.m., and again at 1 p.m.

Park Ranger Adrian Boone will lead a special trek to the Pu‘uloa Petroglyphs during National Park Week, on April 25. NPS Photo/Jay Robinson.

Park Ranger Adrian Boone will lead a special trek to the Pu‘uloa Petroglyphs during National Park Week, on April 25. NPS Photo/Jay Robinson.

Pu‘uloa Petroglyphs. Join Park Ranger Adrian Boone for a two-hour, 1.5-mile round-trip trek across ancient lava flows to the largest petroglyph field in Hawai‘i. Discover the meanings inherent in these rock carvings and gather a greater understanding of the native people who created them.
Where: Meet Ranger Adrian at the Pu‘uloa Petroglyphs parking area, near the end of Chain of Craters Road. (A 45-minute drive from the park entrance).
When: Thursday, April 25 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

NPS Volunteer Day. Save Hawai‘i’s native rainforest, and join forces with volunteers Jane and Paul Field to remove Himalayan ginger, faya, strawberry guava, and other invasive non-native plants that threaten the native understory alongside Halema‘uma‘u Trail. Bring garden gloves. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants. Bring a hat, rain gear, day pack, snacks and water.
Where: Meet the Fields at Kīlauea Visitor Center. Tools will be provided.
When: Saturday, April 27 from 9 a.m. to noon.

There are also regularly scheduled programs in the park, and at the Kahuku Unit, during National Park Week. For a complete listing, visit the park website: http://www.nps.gov/havo/parknews/20130319_pr.htm. In addition, the Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park has special programs during National Park Week: http://fhvnp.org/events/.

The National Park Service will waive entrance fees again on July 13 (Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park’s 33rd Annual Cultural Festival), August 25 (NPS Birthday), Sept. 28 (National Public Lands Day) and Nov. 9-11 (Veteran’s Day weekend).

Hawai‘i Volcanoes is one of five national park units on Hawai‘i Island. Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park is also free of charge on the NPS fee-free 2013 dates. There is no admission at Pu‘ukoholā Heiau National Historic Site, Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park, or along the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail.

 

 

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“Plants of Hula: Na Mea Kanu o Ka Hula” in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park

Posted on April 9, 2013 by Damon

On Saturday, April 27 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Ab Kawainohoikala‘i Valencia and Tim Tunison lead the field seminar “Plants of Hula: Na Mea Kanu o Ka Hula” in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.

Ab Kawainohoikala‘i Valencia (seated) is the kumu hula (hula teacher/master) of Halau Hula Kalehuaki‘eki‘eika‘iu. On Sunday, April 27 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Valencia and botanist Tim Tunison team up for a cultural and scientific exploration of the plants used in hula.

Ab Kawainohoikala‘i Valencia (seated) is the kumu hula (hula teacher/master) of Halau Hula Kalehuaki‘eki‘eika‘iu. On Sunday, April 27 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Valencia and botanist Tim Tunison team up for a cultural and scientific exploration of the plants used in hula.

“Please join us for this exciting program, following on the heels of the Merrie Monarch Festival, in which a kumu hula (hula teacher/master) and botanist team up for a cultural and scientific exploration of the plants used in hula,” stated Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park spokeswoman Elizabeth Fien.

From kumu hula Valencia, learn about hula plants as kino lau, manifestations of Hawaiian deities in plant form (as his Halau Hula Kalehuaki‘eki‘eika‘iu understands them).

“There are plants for the hula altar, the kuahu, which include maile, ‘ie‘ie, ‘ilima, lehua, and halapepe.  Plus, there are adornments—mele hula plants that are worn by the dancers—which include maile, ‘ilima, and lehua, plus palapalai, ‘a‘ali‘i, pukiawe, and ‘olapa,” Valencia explained.

Participants meet at the Kilauea Visitor Center.  The day begins with a welcoming oli (chant), followed by a short walk to the kahua hula—the hula platform that overlooks Halema‘uma‘u Crater, home to the volcano goddess Pele.

Next the group will drive to Kilauea Overlook to discuss cultural protocols used when picking plants—and to walk among native species in their natural environment, with scientific information and insight shared by botanist Tunison.

“After lunch, we’ll visit Tunison’s property in Volcano Village, where he is restoring the land to its native ecosystem.  We’ll get a hands-on lesson in native plant propagation, plus receive plant seedlings to grow at home,” said Valencia.

Valencia was born and raised in Honolulu, though his ‘ohana (family) was originally from Hilo.  He established Halau Hula Kalehuaki‘eki‘eika‘iu in Honolulu in 1991, and currently maintains his halau (school) in Honolulu as well as Volcano.

Tunison worked for the National Park Service for over 30 years.  He was a Botanist at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park from 1982-1994 and Chief of Resource Management from 1995-2006, when he retired.  Since then, Tunison has taught field botany, native plant propagation, and forest restoration.

This event is presented by the Hawai‘i Volcanoes Institute, a program of the Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, a non-profit organization.  Program cost is $45 for Friends members and $65 for non-members.  Students (K-12 and college with valid student ID) are $25.  Non-members are welcome to join the Friends in order to get the member discount.

To register for the “Plants of Hula” field seminar, call 985-7373 or visit www.fhvnp.org.

Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication or reasonable modification of policies and procedures to participate in this event should email institute@fhvnp.org or call 985-7373 as soon as possible, but no later than 5 days prior to the program start.

 

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Pet Reminder for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Posted on April 8, 2013 by Damon

Managers of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park remind the public that dogs and other pets are not allowed in many areas of the park for safety reasons, and for the protection of threatened and endangered species.

A visiting nature enthusiast strolls along the Ni‘aulani Nature Trail, examining a natural arbor formed by fallen and merged endemic Hawaiian tree ferns

A visiting nature enthusiast strolls along the Ni‘aulani Nature Trail, examining a natural arbor formed by fallen and merged endemic Hawaiian tree ferns

According to 36 CFR § 2.15, pets are prohibited in the following areas of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park:

  • All undeveloped areas of the park, including designated wilderness areas.
  • All trails, including backcountry trails.
  • All backcountry campgrounds, including Kulanaokuaiki.
  • ‘Āinahou, Kīpuka Nēnē, and all of Hilina Pali Road.

Authorized service animals are permitted, but may be prohibited from certain areas if their presence is detrimental to park management programs, like nēnē recovery.

“During  my career in national parks, I have witnessed dogs go over the sides of cliffs chasing birds, and in the past year at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, we have had incidents of dogs off leash in nēnē areas, and most recently, falling into steam cracks, all while seemingly under control of their owners,” said Park Superintendent Cindy Orlando. “Pets are like our family, and the best way to protect them is to not expose them to the unnecessary hazards and risks prevalent in a national park,” she said.

All pets and service dogs in the park must be leashed at all times. Recently, hikers have reported being bitten by dogs off leash on park trails. In 2012, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park law enforcement officers cited, warned and responded to 24 dog incidents in the park.

Dogs are used by the park to support ungulate control programs, and by law enforcement officers in the performance of their official duties, in accordance with federal and state laws.

 

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Virtual Visit to Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument and Darryl Castillo Live in Concert

Posted on February 15, 2013 by Damon

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park continues its tradition of sharing Hawaiian culture and After Dark in the Park programs with the community and visitors this month.  These programs are free, but park entrance fees may apply. Mark the calendar for these upcoming events:

Darryl Castillo

Darryl Castillo (Photos courtesy of Darryl Castillo)

Darryl Castillo Live in Concert.  Enjoy an evening of island music with versatile entertainer, singer/songwriter Darryl Castillo. Castillo has been featured in numerous television programs, including Jake and the Fatman and Island Son. His two albums, Follow the Light and Son Crazy, both garnered Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award nominations for “Best Inspirational Album.” His CDs will be available for purchase. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes’ ongoing Nā Leo Manu “Heavenly Voices” presentations. Free.
When: Wed., Feb. 20 at 6:30 p.m. (doors open at 6:15 p.m.)
Where: Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium

Photos courtesy of NOAA/James Watt

Photos courtesy of NOAA/James Watt

A Virtual Visit to Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument.  The park presents an overview of Hawai‘i’s newest UNESCO World Heritage Site, Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. It’s been called a global treasure, rainforest of the sea, the last best place on earth, and it is a place of great cultural significance to Hawaiian people. Join Toni Parras, communications manager for Papahānaumokuākea, on a virtual visit to the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. This program will cover the people, the partnerships, and the promise for this amazing place. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes’ ongoing After Dark in the Park presentations. Free.
When: Tues., Feb. 26 at 7 p.m.
Where: Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium

 

 

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National Park Service Releases Final Plan & EIS for Protecting and Restoring Native Ecosystems by Managing Non-Native Ungulates

Posted on January 25, 2013 by Damon

The National Park Service (NPS) has released a Final Plan and Environmental Impact Statement (plan/EIS) for Protecting and Restoring Native Ecosystems by Managing Non-Native Ungulates in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.

Volcanoe EIS

The plan provides a park-wide framework to systematically guide non-native ungulate management activities in a manner that supports long-term ecosystem protection, supports natural ecosystem recovery and provides desirable conditions for active ecosystem restoration. It also supports protection and preservation of cultural resources.

The NPS’s preferred alternative includes a progression of management phases, monitoring, and considerations for the use of management tools; a population objective of zero non-native ungulates, or as low as practicable, in managed areas; complete boundary fencing for Kahuku and ‘Ōla‘a rainforest; and potential use of localized internal fencing to assist in the control of non-native ungulates. Control techniques would be primarily lethal, but non-lethal techniques could also be considered. Volunteer programs would continue, but modifications would be required for lethal removal programs to meet current NPS practices.

The plan/EIS is available online: http://parkplanning.nps.gov/havo_ecosystem_feis. After a required 30-day waiting period following release of the plan/EIS, the NPS will finalize its choice of alternative in a record of decision.

 

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Park Invites Students to Enter Film Festival

Posted on September 19, 2012 by Damon

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is ready for its close up, and invites students to focus their cameras on the park and enter the fourth annual Digital Mountain Film Festival.

Student filmmaker on location in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park/NPS
Photo

Student filmmakers from seventh to twelfth grade can contact Park Ranger Kūpono McDaniel to arrange filming and editing at the park, and beginners are welcome. Ranger Kūpono can be reached at 985-6015 or by email at kupono_mcdaniel@nps.gov.

“This is an opportunity not only for students to express what Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park means to them in a creative, fun way, but for the park to see how we are perceived by our youth – the ones who will be the future stewards of public lands,” said McDaniel.

The short films will be uploaded by park staff to YouTube, and the public will be able to vote for their favorite films online starting Nov. 12. The deadline for all entrants is Nov. 5. The park will loan cameras to students who need them.

The Digital Mountain Film Festival culminates on Dec. 1 at 6 p.m. with a celebration and public showing of the films at the park’s Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. Winners, who have a chance to win Mac laptop computers and digital cameras, will be announced at the festival.

This project was made possible in part by a grant from the National Park Foundation through the generous support of L.L. Bean, Disney, the Anschutz Foundation, and the Ahmanson Foundation.

Additional help, funding, and support comes from the Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association, and the Big Island Film Office.

For more information, contact Ranger Kūpono McDaniel at 985-6015 or by email at kupono_mcdaniel@nps.gov, and visit the festival’s Facebook page, www.facebook.com/DigitalMountainFilmFestival.

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New Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park Quarter to Be Released – Coin Forum Night Before

Posted on August 16, 2012 by Damon

Join United States Mint and National Park Service officials for the presentation of the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park quarter at 1:30 p.m., August 29, 2012.

The ceremony will take place at the Kahua Hula, south of Kilauea Visitor Center.  Invited guests include United States Senator Daniel Inouye and Governor Neil Abercrombie.  Following the ceremony, the public can exchange their cash for $10 rolls of newly minted Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park quarters at face value.

  • WHAT: Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Quarter Launch
  • WHO: Daniel Inouye, United States Senator, David Croft, Plant Manager, United States Mint at Denver, Cindy Orlando, Superintendent, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Stephanie Donoho, Tourism Specialist, County of Hawaii
  • WHEN: Wednesday, August 29, 2012, 1:30 p.m. (Hawaii Time)
  • WHERE: Kahua Hula, south of Kilauea Visitor Center Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park One Crater Rim Drive, Hawaii National Park, HI  96718

Coin Forum

The evening before the launch ceremony — 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, August 28, 2012— the United States Mint will host a coin forum.  The public forum provides an opportunity for the public to express their views about future coinage, and to learn about upcoming United States Mint coin programs and initiatives.  The coin forum will be held at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, One Crater Rim Drive, Hawaii National Park, HI  96718.

The America the Beautiful Quarters Program, authorized by Public Law 110-456, is a multi-year initiative to honor 56 national parks and other national sites.  Each year, the public will see five new national sites depicted on the reverse (tails side) of the America the Beautiful Quarters.  The United States Mint will issue these quarters in the order in which the honored site was first established as a national site.

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Hike, Explore & Protect Kahuku

Posted on January 27, 2012 by Damon

Two adventurous programs offered by Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park will introduce a captivating landscape, biodiversity and history of the park’s southernmost section to intrepid hikers.

Kipukaakihi looking down

People and Land of Kahuku is a two-mile, three-hour expedition through pastures, a quarry, an airstrip and the 1868 lava fields of Kahuku. Rangers will explain how people lived on the vast Kahuku lands, from the earliest Hawaiians through today. Walk in emerging native forest, hear about Kahuku’s history of violent earthquakes and eruptions and the residents who survived them, and find out how Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park plans to restore the native ecosystem and protect Kahuku’s cultural sites.

The hike is offered Feb. 12, Feb. 18, Mar. 11, Mar. 25, Apr. 15 and Apr. 28, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Meet near the Kahuku gate, which is located off Highway 11 between mile markers 70 and 71 on the mauka side of the highway. Park and meet inside the gate near the ranch buildings. Boots, raingear and long pants are recommended. No advance registration is required.

Kīpuka‘akihi is a challenging 1.5 mile, five-hour adventure to see some of the rare plants and wildlife that inhabit this treasured kīpuka.

Participants must be prepared to scramble over fallen trees, lava rock, and slippery, wet terrain. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, long pants, sunscreen and a hat. Bring raingear, garden gloves, a day pack, insect repellent, lunch and water. This forest stewardship program provides opportunities to help protect this rainforest by pulling up invasive kāhili ginger and other invasive non-native plants throughout the kīpuka.

Due to the fragile nature of the region, the program is limited to 15 people and pre-registration is required. To sign up, call (808) 985-6011.

This expedition into Kahuku’s isolated refuge of rare plants is offered Feb. 26, Mar. 18 and Apr. 21, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Meet near the Kahuku gate, which is located off Highway 11 between mile markers 70 and 71 on the mauka side of the highway. Park and meet inside the gate near the ranch buildings.

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Hawaii Volcanoes National Parks Joining Others in Waiving Entrance Fees Martin Luther King Weekend – Other Free Days Coming Up

Posted on January 12, 2012 by Damon

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park will join all 397 national park units across the country in waiving entrance fees Jan. 14-16 to commemorate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Entrance fees will also be waived on Sat., Jan. 21 to honor the U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory’s 100-year anniversary and Open House.

The HVO Open House on Jan. 21 is an ideal opportunity for residents and visitors to meet USGS scientists, learn how they monitor Hawaiian volcanoes and earthquakes, and appreciate the compelling history of this vital agency. HVO is located within the national park, but is typically not open
to the public. The Open House will feature observatory tours, demonstrations, and other activities, starting from 9 a.m.

For information on the HVO Open House and other programs offered by HVO in January, visit hvo.wr.usgs.gov.

“We are pleased to invite the public to explore their magnificent national park at no charge during these significant milestones,” said Superintendent Cindy Orlando. “I hope everyone has an opportunity to take advantage of the fee-free dates during the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day weekend, and can enjoy the rare privilege of visiting HVO’s Open House,” she said.

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park will offer numerous ranger-led hikes and programs during the fee-free dates. Visitors can find information at http://www.nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/ranger-programs.htm and check the ranger activities bulletin board at the Kīlauea Visitor Center each morning at 9 a.m.

The National Park Service will waive entrance fees on 14 other days in 2012: Apr. 21-29 (National Park Week), June 9 (Get Outdoors Day), July 14 (Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park’s 32nd Annual Cultural Festival), Sept. 29 (National Public Lands Day) and Nov. 10-12 (Veteran’s Day weekend).

Hawai‘i Volcanoes is one of five national park units on the Island of Hawai‘i. Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park is also free of charge on the NPS fee-free 2012 dates. There is no admission at Pu‘ukoholā Heiau National Historic Site, Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park, or along the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail.

Information on special offerings at parks nationwide is available at http://www.nps.gov/findapark/feefreeparks.htm.

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New Quarter Dollar Coin to Feature Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Posted on January 5, 2012 by Damon

The United States Mint will feature Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park on a commemorative 2012 quarter to be released Aug. 27, 2012, through its America the Beautiful Quarters Program.

The Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park coin depicts an eruption on the east rift zone of Kīlauea, and inscriptions include HAWAI‘I VOLCANOES, HAWAII 2012 and E PLURIBUS UNUM. It was designed and sculpted by United States Mint Sculptor-Engraver Charles L. Vickers.

“We are extremely honored that Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park was selected by the United States Mint to represent our state on the America the Beautiful quarter, and that they solicited our design input,” said Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Superintendent Cindy Orlando.

According to the United States Mint, the Hawai‘i Volcanoes’ quarter will be the fourth quarter unveiled in 2012, and the 14th in a series of 56 circulating America the Beautiful quarters. The reverse side (or tails
side) designs are symbolic of a national park or other national site in each state, the District of Columbia and five U.S. territories.

All coins in the America the Beautiful Quarters Program have a common obverse (heads side) featuring the 1932 portrait of George Washington by John Flanagan, restored to bring out subtle details and the beauty of the original model. Inscriptions on the obverse are UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST and QUARTER DOLLAR.

Other emblematic coins with 2012 release dates include El Yunque National Forest in Puerto Rico, Chaco Culture National Historical Park in New Mexico, Acadia National Park in Maine, and Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska.

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Kilauea Volcano’s East Rift Zone Eruption: 29 Years and Counting

Posted on December 29, 2011 by Damon

Jan. 3, 2012 marks the 29th anniversary of Kīlauea’s ongoing east rift zone eruption. This eruption, particularly events that occurred during the past year, will be the topic of an “After Dark in the Park” program in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Tues., Jan. 3.

On Mar. 6, 2011, a spectacular fissure eruption between Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō and Nāpau Crater on Kīlauea’s east rift zone produced lava flows that poured into a pre-existing ground crack and advanced through an ‘ōhi‘a forest. For scale, USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists (lower right) can be seen walking toward the flow. USGS photo by Tim Orr

Tim Orr, a geologist with the U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, will review the eruption, focusing on highlights from Kīlauea’s 2011 activity. The program begins at 7 p.m. at the park’s Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. Park entrance fees apply.

The eruption began just after midnight on Jan. 3, 1983, with lava erupting to the surface along several fissures.  By June 1983, the eruption was focused at a single vent. Over the next three years, lava fountains up to 1,500 feet high roared from the vent 44 times, building a cinder-and-spatter cone named Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō.

In July 1986, the eruption shifted to Kupaianaha, a new vent farther down the east rift zone. Lava poured from this vent nearly continuously for almost six years, burning and burying Kīlauea’s south flank, including the communities of Kapa‘ahu and Kalapana, in 1986 and 1990, respectively.

Early in 1992, the eruption returned to vents on the flanks of Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō. Over the next 18 years, lava flowed down the slopes of Kīlauea, inundating areas within and outside of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National park and often reaching the sea.

During the past year, Kīlauea’s ongoing east rift zone eruption has included two spectacular fissure eruptions, a dramatic outbreak of lava from the west flank of Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō, and, on Dec. 9, 2011, a new ocean entry USGS scientists named West Ka‘ili‘ili—the first ocean entry within the boundaries of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park since 2009.

Since the eruption began in 1983, lava flows have buried 48 square miles of public and private land, destroying vast tracts of native forest, nine miles of highway, and 213 structures, including homes, a church, and the Waha‘ula Visitor Center in the park.

While Kīlauea’s current east rift zone eruption has been its most destructive event in recent history, the eruption has also been constructive. Molten lava flowing into the sea has added about 500 acres of
new land to Hawai‘i Island.

This presentation is one of many talks, guided hikes, and other programs offered by the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory and Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park as part of Hawai‘i Island’s third annual Volcano Awareness Month in January. For more information about this talk, please call 808-985-6011.

For a complete schedule of Volcano Awareness Month events, please visit the HVO Web site at www.hvo.wr.usgs.gov or call (808) 967-8844.

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Two Time Ultraman World Champion Jonas Colting on the 2011 Ultraman Going On Now on the Big Island

Posted on November 25, 2011 by Damon

Jonas Colting is a two-time medalist at ITU World Championships (long distance) and is a three-time winner of Island to Island, the archipelago aquathlon in Stockholm that has been dubbed one of the hardest one-day races in the world. Colting is also a writer of three books and is a noted public and corporate speaker in Sweden.

Jonas Colting talks about the 2011 Ultraman

Jonas Colting has won Ultraman World Championships twice, 2004 and 2007. In 2010 Jonas came second despite illness and rasperotory problems. Jonas Colting holds the existing swim record from 2004  2:14:43 and has the second best total time overall: 21:41:49.

Read more:
Jonas Coltings blog: http://www.coltingblogg.se
Jonas Coltings live twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/jonascolting

Facts about Ultraman

Ultraman World Championships is a 3-day, 320 mile (515 kilometer) individual ultra-endurance event which takes place on the Big Island of Hawaii. Entry is limited to 40 participants and is by invitation only. Founded in 1983, the event is held annually on the traditional Thanksgiving weekend.

Stage I
6.2 mile (10 km) of open water swim followed by a 90 mile (145 km) cross-country bike ride from Keauhou Bay around the sourthern tip of the island to finish at Namakani Paio Park in the Volcanoes National Park. Vertical climbs total 7600 feet (2316 meters).

Stage II
171.4 mile (276 km) bike ride from Volcanoes National Park to Keaau, and then turning east with a counter-clockwise loop through Kalapana, Kapoho and Pahoa an through the city of Hilo. The Route continues north along the Hamakua Coast to Waimea and over the Kohala Mountains to finish at the Kohala Village in on Hawi Road in Hawi.

Stage III
52.4 mile (84 km) double-marathon run from Hawi to Kawaihae and then on to Kailua-Kona. Finishing on the beach at the Old Airport State Park.

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La Réunion President Robert Didier Tours Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

Posted on October 14, 2011 by Damon

The president of La Réunion, a French volcanic island in the middle of the Indian Ocean, visited Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Thursday afternoon, and marveled over similarities between Hawai‘i Island and his home.

La Réunion President Robert Didier, and his delegation

Officials from La Réunion Island visited Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Thursday afternoon. Pictured from left to right: Alain Gerente, Marie Gerente, La Réunion Film Commissioner Edy Payet, Vice-President Jean-Francois Sita, La Réunion President Robert Didier, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Chief of Interpretation Jim Gale, and La Réunion Public Information Officer Corinne Peyron-Beaulieu

La Réunion President Robert Didier, and his delegation of Vice President Jean-Francois Sita, Film Commissioner Edy Payet and Public Information Officer Corinne Peyron-Beaulieu, explored the park as part of a four-day mission to “build a bridge” between La Réunion and Hawai‘i Island by promoting sister park status between Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park and Réunion National Park. Both national parks are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and both are home to active volcanoes.

Both islands are located in the middle of vast oceans, and are situated over volcanic hot spots. La Réunion’s active volcano, Piton de la Fournaise (“Peak of the Furnace”), is listed among earth’s most active volcanoes and last erupted in 2010. It stands 8,632 feet above sea level, and like Kī
lauea, is a shield volcano.

President Didier and his delegation were also here to gather ideas on how to increase tourism to La Réunion by promoting its national park, which comprises 40 percent of the 970-square-mile island. By comparison, the Island of Hawai‘i is 4,028 square miles.

“Tourism is key to our economic success. We want to have tourism but also environmental respect. Our ecology, our biodiversity, is unique,” President Didier said. Réunion National Park is largely undeveloped, he said. In 2010, approximately 400,000 tourists visited La Réunion. President Didier said they intend to increase the number of visitors to 600,000 by 2015.

Part-time Volcano residents and La Réunion citizens Marie and Alain Gerente were instrumental in planning President Didier’s trip to Hawai‘i, and accompanied the delegation as liaisons and translators.

Other similarities between the two islands include a multicultural population. In Reunion, a mix of people from European, African, Malagasy, Indian and Chinese ancestry comprise the population. Both islands have dense rainforests, a high level of endemism, and are home to white-tailed tropic birds – an important national symbol in La Réunion. La Réunion also has olivine, and therefore, green sand beaches.

“I stepped off the plane, and looked around, and said, ‘oh, I’m at home,’” President Didier said.

The delegation also met with Mayor Billy Kenoi, Big Island Visitors Bureau, Executive Director George Applegate and other officials, and toured Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park.

Filed under: aloha, Announcements, Environment, Hawaii, Kenoi, National Affairs, State Affairs, Tourism | Tagged: , , , | Leave a Comment »

Pa’i Foundation Receives $150,000 Grant From the National Endowment for the Arts

Posted on July 12, 2011 by Damon
Media Release:

PA‘I FOUNDATION, whose mission is to preserve and perpetuate Hawaiian cultural traditions for future generations, has received a $150,000 “Our Town” grant from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) to support the development of plans for a Traditional Hawaiian Cultural Center and related programming that showcases and supports contemporary Native Hawaiian visual artists and traditional cultural practitioners.  The cultural center will include classroom space, performance space for hula, music and other traditional practices, and live/work spaces for artists and their families.  The project is a partnership with “Artspace,” a national developer of creative art spaces and affordable housing for artists.

NEA Chairman Rocco Landesman announced the grant winners earlier today in Washington, D.C.  PA‘I Foundation is one of 51 inaugural “Our Town” Grant recipients, and the only one from Hawai‘i.  In total, over $6.5 million are being invested into communities around the country to support the arts as part of a community revitalization strategy.  The grants range from $25,000 to $250,000.

“We are extremely thrilled and proud to be among the first recipients of the Our Town Grant,” said Vicky Holt Takamine, PA‘I Foundation Executive Director and Kumu Hula.  “We would like to say ‘Mahalo Nui’ to the National Endowment for the Arts, our partners at ‘Artspace,’ and Mayor Peter Carlisle for providing a letter of support which was critical to our selection.  We will use these grant funds to support the development of Ola Ka ‘Ilima (Creative Art Spaces).”

NEA created the “Our Town” Grants because art works to improve the lives of America’s citizens in many ways.  Communities across our nation are using smart design and leveraging the arts to create livable, sustainable neighborhoods with enhanced quality of life, increased creative activity, distinct identities, a sense of place, and vibrant local economies.  The NEA defines these efforts as Creative Placemaking.

“Our Town” is the NEA’s latest investment in “Creative Placemaking,” through which partners from both public and private sectors come together to shape the social, physical, and economic character of a neighborhood, town, city, or region around arts and cultural activities.

“Our Town” invests in creative and innovative projects in which communities, together with their arts and design organizations and artists, are looking to increase their livability, and specifically are seeking to:

  • Improve their quality of life.
  • Encourage creative activity.
  • Create community identity and a sense of place.
  • Revitalize local economies.

The Hawai‘i project, developed by Artspace in partnership with PA‘I Foundation, will include a cultural market survey to assess the size and specific uses of the project.  It is anticipated that there will be about 40 units of affordable live/work space for artists and their families at the center. The site for the center has not been selected, as yet.

“We’re delighted to see the PA‘I Foundation receive this award from the NEA,” said Rebecca Driscoll, Artspace Board Chair. “The Our Town program is further evidence of the strong national leadership of the NEA in making creative placemaking a reality in communities all across America.”

For a complete list of “Our Town” Grant recipients, please go to http://www.arts.gov.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS
The National Endowment for the Arts was established by Congress in 1965 as an independent agency of the federal government.  To date, the NEA has awarded more than $4 billion to support artistic excellence, creativity, and innovation for the benefit of individuals and communities.  The NEA extends its work through partnerships with state arts agencies, local leaders, other federal agencies, and the philanthropic sector.  For more information, please visit http://www.arts.gov.

ABOUT PA‘I FOUNDATION
PA‘I Foundation, organized in 2001, is a 501 c 3 organization whose mission is to preserve and perpetuate Hawaiian cultural traditions for future generations.  The goal of PA‘I Foundation is to establish a cultural center on O’ahu to better serve the broader Hawaiian community.  PA‘I Foundation is the non-profit organization of Pua Ali’i ‘Ilima, a halau hula founded by Kumu Hula Vicky Holt Takamine in 1977.  While the organization is centered around and supported by halau members, the purpose of PA‘I Foundation is not centered around servicing the needs of the halau, but to address and serve the needs of Native Hawaiians and those who make Hawai’i their home.  For more information, please visit www.paifoundation.org.

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Volcano House Concession Requirements Not Met – National Park Service Re-Soliciting Bids

Posted on July 1, 2011 by Damon
Media Release:

The National Park Service (NPS) will be re-soliciting the Volcano House concession prospectus because the proposals received did not meet critical requirements for the concession contract. All proposals received in response to this solicitation were considered non-responsive and/or not qualified. Cindy Orlando, Superintendent at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park states that “the Director of the NPS must, by law, reject proposals where the concessioner is not qualified or the proposal is non-responsive to the requirements of the Volcano House Prospectus”.

The NPS issued the Prospectus for the Volcano House operation on December 10, 2009, requesting proposals for visitor services that included: overnight accommodations, food, beverage, retail, campground and related services. Due to several amendments, the closing date was extended to September 1, 2010. All proposals were reviewed by the NPS Pacific West Regional Office in Oakland Calif. and subsequently sent to the Director of NPS in Washington D.C. for final review and action.

Currently, the NPS is in the process of revising and finalizing a prospectus for re-solicitation in July 2011which will include a timeline for new proposals. This opportunity will be posted on the Federal Business Opportunities website, http://www.fbo.gov, as well as the NPS Commercial Services website, http://www.concessions.nps.gov.

For further information contact Walt Poole at 808-985-6027 or walt_poole@nps.gov

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Eddie Aikau Restaurant & Surf Museum to Open at Kings Shops

Posted on May 29, 2011 by Damon
Media Release:

Eddie Aikau, the inspiring Hawaiian hero and big wave surf legend who was lost at sea in 1978, dared to “go” for the biggest waves, the bravest ocean rescues, and the 2,500-mile trans-Pacific voyage of the sailing canoe Hōkūle‘a. Today two Hawai‘i Island-based companies have partnered to share Eddie’s story and spirit in a new, up-and-coming classic: the Eddie Aikau Restaurant & Surf Museum, opening this summer at Kings’ Shops in Waikoloa Beach Resort.

Brandon Lee, Ryan Lee and Keoni Regidor, the Honoka‘a Brothers, along with Executive Chef Scott Lutey, are Hawai‘i born and raised, surfers, watermen, enthusiastic young restaurateurs and chefs to watch. With Hawaiian Cahuilla, Inc., owned by Waimea residents Linda Gillette and husband Solomon Aikau, Eddie’s brother, they are working to assemble the ultimate collection of memorabilia, surf posters, awards, pictures, surfboards, videos and much more for the restaurant’s surf museum.

A July 3rd grand opening promises to be a big splash—with special appearances by celebrity pro surfers, top-of-the-charts Hawaiian bands, prizes, specials and surprises. With renovations under way now and exciting plans for the future, “Eddie’s” will debut during Resort-wide Independence Day festivities, including the annual Rubber Duckie Race for Cerebral Palsy, this year themed “Koloa Would Go,” the following day.

For more information, about the Eddie Aikau Restaurant & Surf Museum visit EddieAikauRestaurants.com (coming soon) and find them on Facebook.

About the restaurant

With the grand opening slated for July 3rd, the Eddie Aikau Restaurant & Surf Museum will be open for lunch and dinner, with live music Thursday through Saturday nights. Located in the Kings’ Shops at Waikoloa Beach Resort on the Big Island of Hawai‘i, the two-story restaurant with indoor-outdoor lakeside seating, has been transformed into a hip yet classic 1960’s-style surf retreat/plantation house. Its ʻōhiʻa posts, earth tone interiors, “aloha” fabrics and a lifetime collection of surf memorabilia and mementos of Eddie’s life and surf career, capture the warm nature of an island home, inviting everyone to come in, share a meal and “talk story.”

About the chef

Winner of multiple Hale ‘Aina Awards, Chef Scott Lutey is creating a new “Contemporary Hawaiian Cuisine” for “Eddie’s” restaurant, based on his personal mana’o (thought energy) about food. “We focus on enhancing the natural flavor of the product, keeping up with food trends, cooking techniques and flavors in Hawaii and around the world—with simple elegance,” says Lutey. Spotlighting excellence in the sustainable local foods that Eddie would have loved, Chef Lutey is already reaching out to farmers, fishermen and ranchers for the best in Hawaii’s food products.

A waterman himself, Lutey is originally from Maui, and has made a name for himself on four islands, from First Hawaiian Bank’s Executive Dining Room in Honolulu, to the Sheraton Kauai and Beach House Restaurant, Grand Wailea Hotel and Spa on Maui, and Tommy Bahama’s restaurant in the Mauna Lani Resort here on Hawai‘i Island. Recipient of five Hale ‘Aina Awards and two ‘Ilima Awards, Chef Lutey has been a “Featured Chef” by James Beard and “Rising Star” by Zagat Survey Millennium Edition. He is a Grand Prize winner of the Angostura “World Class Taste,” and twice champion of the Sam Choy Poke contest.

About the owners

Hawaiian Cahuilla, Inc., comprised of Linda Gillette and husband Solomon Aikau, Eddie’s brother, partnered with Honoka‘a Brothers, LLC to create “The E. A. Restaurants,” a collaboration of restaurant expertise and a personal relationship with Eddie. Honoka‘a Brothers LLC is comprised of Brandon Lee, Ryan Lee and Keoni Regidor, who already operate two of the Big Island’s favorite recent restaurants: Pakini Grill in Waimea and Napua on the ocean at Kalahuipua‘a within Mauna Lani Resort. The Eddie Aikau Restaurant & Surf Museum at Kings’ Shops in Waikoloa Beach Resort will add a third. Everyone involved with the project has a deep personal commitment to the kuleana (responsibility) of sharing Eddie’s story.

About Eddie Aikau

Edward Ryon Makuahānai Aikau was born on Maui in 1946 and grew up on Oahu with his extended family, who tended an old Chinese graveyard in exchange for rent. He and his brothers dreamed of the day they could catch the monster waves of the North Shore, where few 1960’s surfers dared to go. Eddie Aikau not only mastered the challenge of Waimea Bay, he captured the attention and respect of the sport and helped spark a worldwide love affair with big wave surfing.

In the years to come, he would be hired as the North Shore’s first official life guard, and not a soul was lost to the sea during his seven years of service. No matter how dangerous the conditions, it became known that “Eddie would go.” By 1977, he had won the Duke Kahanamoku Classic, named for his personal hero, had his photo in Life magazine, and was ranked 12th in the surfing world.

Having satisfied his big wave goals, Eddie answered a personal calling to connect more deeply with his Hawaiian culture joining the Hawaiian voyaging canoe Hōkūle‘a. Hōkūle‘a set sail March 16, 1978, on what would be an ill-fated voyage from Hawai‘i to Tahiti. Capsized in rough seas, Eddie insisted upon paddling to Lāna‘i for help, some 19 miles away. Although the crew was later rescued, Eddie was never seen again.

His legacy is honored today through the world’s most famous big wave surf meet, The Quiksilver In Memory of Eddie Aikau, and The Eddie Aikau Foundation, established by the Aikau family in 2000, to support promising opportunities that reflect Eddie’s dreams through education, advocacy and philanthropy. http://www.EddieAikauFoundation.org.

For more information, about the Eddie Aikau Restaurant & Surf Museum visit EddieAikauRestaurants.com (coming soon) and find them on Facebook.

Filed under: aloha, Big Island, Entertainment, Hawaii, Hawaiian, Kona, Something New?, Tourism | Tagged: , , , , , | Leave a Comment »

Public Meetings on Preliminary Alternatives for the Development of an Air Tour Management Plan for Volcanoes National Park

Posted on March 29, 2011 by Damon

Public Meeting/Notice of Availability, Review, and Comment on Preliminary Alternatives for the Development of an Air Tour Management Plan for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, HI

Me, Howard Dicus, His wife and Hawaii News Now Camerman get ready for a helicopter tour

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of public meeting, request for comments, and availability of preliminary alternatives.

SUMMARY: This notice announces the availability of preliminary air tour alternatives and announces meetings hosted by the National Park Service, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the FAA’s Air Tour Management Program. The purpose of the meetings is to introduce proposed alternatives to the public which contain routes and altitudes used by air tour operators when providing air tours of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The meetings provide an opportunity for the public to review and comment onalternatives.

DATES: Comment Period:Comments must be received on or before June 6, 2011.

Meetings: The meetings will be held at the following locations, dates, and times:

  • Volcano, Hawaii Monday, April 18, 2011, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Klauea Visitor Center, 1 Crater Rim Drive, Pahoa, Hawaii.
  • Tuesday, April 19, 2011, 5-7 p.m. Pahoa Community Center, 15-2910 Puna Rd.
  • Wednesday, April 20, 2011, 5-7 p.m. Na’alehu Community Center, 95-5635 Mamalahoa Highway.

More information here: Public Meeting and Comment on Preliminary Alternatives for the Development of an Air Tour Management Plan for Volcanoes National Park

Filed under: aloha, Announcements, Big Island, Environment, Hawaii, Legal, Tourism, Transportation | Tagged: , , , | Leave a Comment »

The Volcano Art Center

Posted on May 3, 2010 by Damon

Yesterday I had the opportunity to check out Volcanoes National Park.  One of the things that I got to  do which I hadn’t done before was to check out the Volcano Art Center there.

Our guide Warren Costa from Native Guide Hawaii explains the history of the Art Center

It’s located right next to the visitor center and I highly suggest checking it out.

Here’s a quick slide show of the place.  I’ll be posting a blog soon about my experiences inside the park… but right now I’m still trying to catch up on a few other things.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Filed under: Announcements, Big Island, Entertainment, Environment, Hawaii, Hawaiian, Tourism | Tagged: , | 1 Comment »

Volcanoes National Park and Hydrogen-Powered Shuttles?

Posted on June 23, 2009 by Damon

I previously blogged about Volcanoes National Park’s Climate Friendly Plan in April.

hydrogen Shuttle

Hydrogen Powered Shuttle Busses

Looks like more noise is being created Federally on this project as well as other Climate Friendly Park Plans.

…The National Park Service and the Environmental Protection Agency have started the Climate Friendly Parks network program to help parks address climate change. Parks must measure their amounts of emissions, come up with plans to curb them and educate the public on what they can do to help…

…Visitors to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park may soon hop on hydrogen-powered shuttles…

Full Article

Filed under: Big Island, Environment, Hawaii, National Affairs, Rumors, Something New?, State Affairs, Sustainable Living, Technology, Tourism, Transportation | Tagged: , , | 1 Comment »

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