Uhiwai's founding Board (Andrea Buckman, Keahi Bustamente, Kaliko Spenser and January Asbury) were all inspired by the reforestation at Auwahi, ‘Ulupalakua Ranch, Maui. They have contributed to conservation from different angles from mauka to makai for over 15 years. These friends and colleagues recognized the discrepancies in funding, effective collaboration, community and cultural inclusion, and on-the-ground efficacy of the frameworks that existed at the time. 

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In 2018, Uhiwai O Haleakalā was formed to fill the gaps in funding, expand outreach capacity and offer flexibility in addressing the dynamic environmental and programmatic needs that arise when working within dynamic landscapes, diverse landowners, and evolving community and environmental needs. 

 

Without the inspiration afforded by the leadership at Auwahi, the Leeward Haleakalā Watershed Restoration Partnership, University of Hawai’i, the inclusion of diverse community groups including cultural practitioners, hunters, scientists and volunteers, this organization would not have been added to Maui’s repertoire of organizations. The spirit of collaboration that makes us leaders in affecting on-the-ground change while honoring the need for continuous innovation, partnerships, and advancement as the effect of climate change and the number of perils impacting the resilience and integrity of Hawai’i’s community, biodiversity, economy and culture.