Please take the time to locate a copy of 'Kia'ii Na Moku o Maui Nui, the newsletter of the Maui Invasive Species Committee. The winter 2010-2011 edition is an informative, research-driven, easy-to-read publication detailing the impressive work done to protect Maui and our outer islands' precious natural environment.
Few organizations have had such a positive impact as MISC on our county's forests, open spaces and coastal areas by eliminating alien pests, both plant and animal. The winter edition has well-written articles on the nitrogen-producing Albizia tree on Molokai, and in "A View From Above" we learn how critical a tool mapping is when strategizing eradication or tracking the spread of dangerous flora.
Because the majority of the work is done in the county's very isolated and inaccessible locales, we often forget the major efforts taking place every day to keep Hawaii's native plant life healthy and prolific. But MISC is out there in all kinds of weather, traversing all kinds of terrain, building lifelong relationships among those who care deeply about our soil, water and seldom-seen indigenous animals.
How appropriate to name the newsletter 'Kia'ii Na Moku o Maui Nui - guarding the islands of Maui County. Mahalo, Teya and the MISC staff, specialists and crews. Keep up the good work.
Morris Haole Jr.
Makawao
