Project Profile: Produce Plant Materials for Pacific Island Parks

Kalaupapa National Historical Park viewed from the trail.

NPS / T. Scott Williams

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
National Seed Strategy | FY24-25 $250,000

The National Park Service (NPS) will expand native plant material production and storage to prevent the introduction of harmful pathogens or organisms to the Hawaiian Islands. This effort will secure appropriate seed storage capacity, produce individual plants for revegetation, and obtain locally adapted seed from partner organizations to support restoration needs. The project will result in protection and restoration of plants important to native Hawaiian people and culture.

Why? Hawaii’s native plants are a foundation of Hawaii’s diverse ecosystems, culture, and traditions, and provide the islands with significant educational, scientific, and socioeconomic benefits. Native plants have been used for centuries by the Hawaiian people for medicinal purposes, food, and clothing and are deeply intertwined with Hawaiian traditions and beliefs.

What Else? Storage and production of native seeds is important for Hawai’i to adapt to the challenges posed by climate change, such as hurricanes, and ensuring that the plants used in restoration efforts are adapted to the local climate.

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law - Ecosystem Restoration

This project was made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – Ecosystem Restoration, signed on November 15, 2021. It is a historic investment in the restoration and protection of the environment.