Invasive algae are one of the greatest threats to Hawaiʻi's coral reefs and nearshore marine ecosystems. These invasive, non-native marine algae species flourish off of an environment created by sediment and runoff from the land. As invasive algae spreads, it grows over and smothers coral reefs and native algal communities, killing extensive areas of native habitat. Three species of invasive algae are devastating Maunalua Bay: Gorilla ogo (Gracilaria salicornia), Prickly seaweed (Acanthophora spicifera), and Leather mudweed (Avrainvillea lacerata). Our goal is to clear the area of harmful algae to restore a marine habitat with healthy native seagrass, algae and coral through our Huki project.
Since Mālama Maunalua's inception in 2005, our impacts through the Huki project have been tremendous. With the help of over 37,000 volunteers, we have removed over 4 million pounds of invasive algae across 20+ acres of Maunalua Bay that we actively work to restore and have donated $3.7 million worth of soil amendment for area farms.
For the entire month of May, we are asking YOU to help support Mālama Maunalua's Huki program. By donating this month, you will help us continue to host free Huki events for community members and school groups and provide necessary equipment such as tabis, gloves, GPS's, and plot setting materials. Huki events are led by highly trained staff, and participants have the opportunity to help us restore the health of Maunalua Bay while also learning about the culture, history, science, and ecology of this significant place!
Our goal this month is to raise $15,000. We need your help for the entire month of May to support invasive algae removal in Maunalua Bay!
Donate below or Text HUKI to 707070! You can also start your own fundraising page on behalf of MM to help us reach more people!
*To start your own fundraising page for this campaign, please click "Join Campaign."