January 10, 2025
HONOLULU – At a ceremonial event held today, Governor Josh Green, M.D., officially declared 2025 as the “Year of Our Community Forests,” an initiative spearheaded by the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) in collaboration with a wide network of partners.
This proclamation highlights the vital role that community forests, including urban forests, play in the places where we live, learn, and play. It aims to raise awareness of these forests and deepen connections between the people of Hawai’i and the trees that grow around them.
“Community forests are all around us, in our neighborhoods, parks, schools, and streets,” Governor Green shared at the signing event. “They can feature native species, as well as non-invasive, beneficial trees like ‘ulu, niu, mango, and others that add to our environment.”
DLNR First Deputy Ryan Kanaka’ole also spoke at the ceremony, emphasizing that community forests are not limited to natural, remote areas but are an integral part of daily life in Hawai’i. “Our trees are what make Hawai’i feel like home. They aren’t just decorative; they provide shade, food, oxygen, habitat, and so much more. These trees are also perfect for hanging ornaments and holiday lights.”
The campaign is supported by a new website launched by DOFAW, offering valuable information on community forests, volunteer opportunities, and how these forests contribute to the vitality of communities. It also provides access to statistical data on the environmental, economic, and social benefits of urban forests.
“While forests are often seen through the lens of conservation, they hold significant economic value,” explained DOFAW Administrator David Smith. “Nationwide, urban forestry generated $64 billion in 2017, and it supports more than half a million jobs. Studies show that trees enhance productivity, reduce stress for workers, and even boost property values.”
Governor Green stressed the environmental benefits of community forests. “Trees are critical for a healthy planet. They improve water quality by filtering pollutants and reducing soil runoff into the ocean. They purify the air by filtering pollutants and absorb carbon dioxide, which helps mitigate climate change.”
Hawai’i’s municipal trees make a significant contribution to environmental sustainability. They store more than 25,000 tons of CO2, remove a net 3,340 tons of CO2 annually, and manage 35 million gallons of stormwater runoff every year.
This year-long campaign invites all residents of Hawai’i to engage with their local community forests and appreciate the essential role trees play in creating a healthier, more vibrant environment for generations to come.
For more information, visit the DOFAW website dedicated to the Year of Our Community Forests campaign.
