Coastal Wetland and Estuary Restoration in Hilo

Be prepared for changing weather conditions and wet, muddy, and uneven terrain -- we work rain or shine!  Activities typically include removing invasive weeds with a sickle (or by hand), hauling vegetation, and planting native species. Some tasks involve working in water or in mud. 

Volunteers of all experience levels are welcome -- just bring your enthusiasm, willingness to get muddy, and a commitment to healing the ʻāina (land).  

Lokowaka Pond is located directly across Kalanianaʻole Street from Kealoha Beach Park (also known as 4-Mile) in Hilo.
Parking: Please park in the Kealoha Beach Park lot on Keaukaha Road.
Directions: From town, turn sharply left onto Keaukaha Road just before The Seaside Restaurant (look for the yellow poles). Note: Keaukaha Road is one-way starting from Kalanianaʻole.
Important: Please do not park in the Carlsmith Beach Park lot across from the restaurant — those limited spaces are for beachgoers.
Directions from the parking area:

• Walk across the park near the restrooms toward Kalanianaʻole Street.
• Step over the guardrail and carefully cross the road.
• On the pond side, look for a small peninsula with trees — that’s where we’ll be.
• Step carefully over the guardrail again to come down to the peninsula and meet us there.

What to wear and bring:

Light and quick-drying long sleeve shirt and long pants. (for skin protection from the sun, insects, irritants, and sharp object)

Closed-toed shoes

Hat and sunscreen

Rain jacket

Change of clothes and shoes, a towel, and a bag for wet and muddy items

Drinking water

If you arrive late and we’ve moved to another area, please call (808) 895-2350, and we’ll guide you in.