My name is Anne Allison, and I live in Kihei. I am writing to strongly support increasing the county's budget for the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council.
Every election cycle, politicians say they want to protect Maui resources, yet less than 1% of the state budget is directed to protect our natural resources!!!! How much is budgeted for Maui? Do any of you actually go in the water and see what is happening? We do not have enough rangers or DOCARE to protect the fish, reefs, coastline. Seems that so little of the coastline is protected which makes it easy for poachers and or overfishing. Just in 8 years (snorkeling most days a week) reef health has plummeted and there are very few fish or varieties of fish at most reefs. Tourists notice. And this puts more pressure on Ahihi Kinau Reserve which is a marine preserve; they go there even though not a friendly beginner place as they are guaranteed to see a fish. Yes, it is getting that bad. Many people visiting there do not even realize that this is a marine preserve, do not read the signs and often misstep.
Maui Nui is an amazing organization which i donate yearly to and before covid, was a volunteer on the water quality testing team. They also provide top quality educational presentations on Zoom or at the Ocean Center. the Reef-Friendly landscaping program is a must, and again often funded by donations!!!!
Please really do protect or environment!!!!!! And the increases at DOCARE, Rangers and Maui Nui are excellent places to fund to get your bang for the buck!!!!!!!
Respectfully,
Anne Allison, resident of Maui and ocean lover
Aloha Council Members,
My name is Thomas Kevin Kekoa Dolan-Ma, and I’m writing today to ask that you prioritize funding for rental assistance in the County budget.
Families across Maui County are still struggling to afford housing—especially wildfire survivors and working families who are being priced out of their own communities.
Rental assistance is a lifeline that prevents houselessness, supports local workers, and helps people stay rooted where they live, work, and raise their keiki.
Please invest in programs that help keep our residents housed and our communities strong.
Mahalo nui loa for your time and service.
I wish you enough,
Thomas (he, him)
808.859.0286
I am grateful to live and work in Vancouver, BC and Honolulu, Hawai’i. While in Vancouver on the stolen and unceded lands of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh peoples, and while in Honolulu on the stolen and unceded lands of The Hawaiian Kingdom and the Kanaka Maoli. I acknowledge how I have benefitted and continue to benefit from colonial practices. I’m in a lifelong commitment of unlearning attitudes and acts of oppression, and I’m committed to cultivating respectful and reciprocal relationships with these lands and their ancestral stewards.
My name is Robin Kory, and I own a home in Kihei. I am writing to strongly support increasing the county’s budget for the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council.
The Council monitors water-quality at 41 beaches across Maui, which tells us how healthy our ocean water is. They conduct reef health surveys throughout the year, which tells us how our reefs are changing and where help is needed. They developed Hawaii’s first reef-friendly landscaping program, which teaches landscaping methods that are safer for our reefs. They also established a new coral restoration area in South Maui, which gives damaged corals a second chance at survival.
Our surrounding waters and reefs are one of Maui’s greatest assets. If they die, our way of life and economy will die. We need all the help we can get to protect our beautiful waters and reefs.
My name is Ash, and I live in Lahaina. As a manager at Sail Maui, I am reaching out to express my full support for increasing the budget allocation for the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council in the county’s 2026 budget.
At Sail Maui, we provide our guests with the unforgettable experience of snorkeling over Maui's vibrant coral reefs. The health of these reefs is not only crucial for marine biodiversity but directly impacts the quality of experiences we can offer to our visitors, ultimately influencing the sustainability of our business.
The Maui Nui Marine Resource Council's initiatives are integral to our operations and the broader health of Maui’s marine environments.
Water Quality Monitoring
Monitoring water quality at 41 beaches across Maui is vital, as it helps ensure the waters our guests swim in are safe and clean. This directly enhances the guest experience and supports our commitment to environmental stewardship.
Reef Health Surveys
The council’s detailed reef health surveys provide essential data that helps us understand the conditions of the reefs we visit. This knowledge enables us to better educate our guests about reef conservation and adapt our tour routes to minimize environmental impact.
Reef-Friendly Landscaping Program
Promoting landscaping methods that are safer for our reefs protects the aquatic ecosystems that are fundamental to our snorkeling tours. This initiative not only preserves the scenic beauty of Maui but also ensures the longevity of our marine attractions.
Coral Restoration Efforts
The coral restoration area in South Maui is particularly significant for us. It not only aids in the recovery of damaged corals but also serves as a compelling point of interest for our tours, enhancing our educational offerings about coral ecology and conservation efforts.
The continued funding and expansion of the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council's work are essential for maintaining the health of Maui’s marine ecosystems, which are the foundation of our snorkeling tours at Sail Maui. An increase in their budget is an investment in the sustainable future of our local environment and economy.
I strongly advocate for this budget increase and appreciate your consideration of this crucial matter.
Mahalo for supporting our natural heritage and local businesses.
Best regards,
Ash
Ashley | Sail Maui | 808-868-6212 | www.sailmaui.com
Our most important tourist resource is our ocean.
In other places in the world, hotels pay a coral tax and build bio reef to start new life and reefs.
Here, so far, its been the bottom line… money… determining choices that lead in the opposite direction than protection.
Since its the bottom line that speaks… healthy reefs = tourist dollars.
Act now to help the agencies that help protect and monitor ocean life.
Thank you,
Aloha – My name is Christine Nelson, and I live in Lahaina. I am writing to strongly support increasing the county’s budget for the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council.
Maui Nui monitors water quality at 41 beaches across the island of Maui. This regular monitoring informs us not only on how healthy our ocean is, but also if our streams are carrying contaminates into our ocean.
They conduct reef health surveys throughout the year which helps us know if our reefs are healthy and growing or if they are dying.
They developed Hawaii’s first reef friendly landscaping program. Teaching landscaping methods that are better and safer for our reefs.
Maui Nui also established a new coral restoration area in S. Maui that gives damaged corals a chance to survive all the abuse it has been given.
The cultural importance of the reefs cannot be overstated. Without our reefs, we will have no more Honu or fish that depend on the coral for food and protection.
The cleanliness of the water is so important for the existence of our food and for recreation.
I again ask that you please continue supporting Maui Nui Marine Resource Council.
My name is Suparna Vashisht and I live in Kihei. I am writing to strongly support increasing the county’s budget for the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council (MNMRC).
MNMRC does work that is vital for the health of our ocean and land:
- Monitors water-quality at 41 beaches across Maui which tells us how healthy (or not) our ocean water is
- Conducts reef health surveys throughout the year which tells us how our reefs are doing and where help is needed
- Developed Hawaii’s first reef-friendly landscaping program and teaches landscaping methods that are safer for our reefs and better for our ocean health and the health of the endangered and protected species that live there.
-Establishing a new coral restoration area in South Maui which gives damaged corals a second chance at survival
To us, the environment is the most important issue we can try to assist. The Maui Nui Marine Resource Council is worth supporting, individually and by the government. (We have a "front row seat” to erosion, storm damage, the warming ocean, dune damage etc. where we live.)
Some of its accomplishments include:
- Monitor water-quality at 41 beaches across Maui: Tells us how healthy our ocean water is
- Conduct reef health surveys throughout the year: Tells us how our reefs are changing and - where help is needed
- Developed Hawaii’s first reef-friendly landscaping program: Teaches landscaping methods that are safer for our reefs
-Established a new coral restoration area in South Maui: Gives damaged corals a second chance at survival
My name is Christiane Santoro and I live in Pukalani. I am writing to strongly support increasing the county's budget for the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council. It is a very important organization to make sure our ocean water is monitored for water quality. They also do reef surveys throughout the year to make sure that our reefs do not decline further than they already have and have a coral restoration project to help corals survive.
I have travelled to many places to snorkel and know what a healthy reef and fish population can look like. Please help protect our reefs for our ohana and the many visitors our beautiful island has.
Aloha, my name is Ashley Tahauri and I am writing to express my support for the I am writing in support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Maui Nui Botanical Gardens for FY2026. This institution holds particular importance to my family and our community.
I have attended and participated in numerous valuable workshops at the gardens, which have provided me with valuable knowledge, fostered connections, and created lasting memories. The Kamaʻāina lāʻau (native Hawaiian) plants, cultural events such as Hoʻomau, and educational workshops ranging from ʻohe hana ihu to ʻŌhiʻa ROD and seed collection workshop, ʻAwa, Kapa, Kalo, Imu, Lā Hoʻi Hoʻi Eā, Lā Kūʻokoʻa, and many more events that are held there, have contributed to the preservation and promotion of our culture and tūpuna (ancestors). This is a wahi pana (significant place) that we all deeply cherish.
Over the years, I have transitioned into my profession as an Outreach Educator and Reforestation assistant for Uhiwai O Haleakalā. We have been fortunate to utilize this space to teach our Maui ʻōpio (youth) the art of native seed processing, plant identification, and the moʻolelo (stories) and traits of these plants. Additionally, I have facilitated educational workshops that emphasize the importance of ecosystem protection. While we were unable to take the youth into the mountains due to hazardous conditions, I was able to provide them with an alternative learning experience at Maui Nui Botanical Gardens—a safe and conducive space where they could engage in meaningful activities and receive the necessary guidance.
I have also participated as an outreach educator at various events held at the gardens, including Lā ʻUlu, Arbor Day, and most recently Hoʻomau. I appreciate the native plant sales, the seedbank, the knowledge provided, and the diverse range of educational and fun activities offered by the gardens for our community! I have witnessed many malihini-outside visitors come to this place and gain respect and knowledge of our people and Kānaka Maoli culture.
Maui Nui Botanical Gardens offers a wealth of resources and opportunities, and I strongly advocate for financial support to further its mission.
I am writing in support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Maui Nui Botanical Gardens for FY2026. My name is Audrey Tamashiro-Kamii. I have participated in and attended many community events held at the Gardens that promote the appreciation, protection and preservation of Maui Nuiʻs native plants and cultural heritage. They offer workshops on the propagation, care and cultural uses of native species, and educate the public on Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death and other threats to our watersheds. They also house a seed bank to ensure we will always have a source of viable native seed for future outplantings in the event of wildfires and other disasters that may cause native plant populations to decline. Maui Nui Botanical Gardens is an integral part of our community. I humbly ask for your full support of their line-item grant for FY2026.
I am writing in support of the Department of Agriculture line item grant to Maui Nui Botanical Gardens for FY2026. The garden is the best community resource I know of for learning which native plants will grow on our property as we seek to replace introduced plants with native ones. The garden is also a great location to spend time as a family when we are in town and have time between appointments. I also appreciate the free plants we've obtained when we stop, expanding my knowledge of native plants. Mahalo for your consideration. Aloha, Warren
In Support of Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Maui Nui Botanical Gardens for FY2026.
The MNBG staff has so much passion for what they do, to share this garden of native plants to grow beyond the borders of the garden, sharing with the community so that the native plants are seen all over Maui County.
MNBG is such a special place, the Garden connects Native plants to the community, connects the Hawaiian culture to the community.
MNBG is a place that brings the community together with such free events as the La'Ulu Festival and the Arbor Day Free tree giveaway event. Mahalo to all of you.
I am writing in support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Maui Nui Botanical Gardens. Of particular interest to my ohana is their ongoing support and educational outreach for the production and use of Breadfruit. Ulu is a vital component of local food source for Maui and they have made a big difference in how many people are willing and able to grow and eat this staple.
I am in support of Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Maui Nui Botanical Gardens for FY2026.” That organization is instrumental in educating visitors and residents about appropriate plants for Maui. I personally have taken advantage of free and for sale native plants to plant where I live.
I am writing in support of the Department of Agriculture line item grant to Maui Nui Botanical Gardens. The Gardens are the best resource on island for learning about native plants and supporting Hawaiian culture. I have been countless times for the weekly plant sale, workshops and events, and each time I learn something new. They have hosted fantastic cultural practitioners to teach weaving ‘eke and pāpale. I hope to continue taking class from these teachers and have already recommended them to many friends. La ‘Ulu and Ho‘omau were beautiful gatherings for the community and also supported Hawaiian education, arts, and local businesses. Maui needs more community spaces like the gardens with low-barrier cost to entry that fosters arts and culture.
I am writing in support of the Department of Agriculture line item grant to Maui Nui Botanical Gardens. The gardens are a valuable resource in our community to help foster learning and appreciation of the natural world and Hawaiian cultural ideas and practices for both kama'aina and visitors to Maui.
I am writing in support of the Department of Agriculture line item grant to Maui Nui Botanical Gardens. The Botanical Gardens have made an incredibly important impact on me personally; they have helped foster and facilitate in me a love for the 'āina and for our native plants. They deserve all the support they can get. I would not have all the knowledge and care for the 'aina without them.
Testimonies received from BFED Committee 04-07-2025 (3)
Aloha,
My name is Anne Allison, and I live in Kihei. I am writing to strongly support increasing the county's budget for the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council.
Every election cycle, politicians say they want to protect Maui resources, yet less than 1% of the state budget is directed to protect our natural resources!!!! How much is budgeted for Maui? Do any of you actually go in the water and see what is happening? We do not have enough rangers or DOCARE to protect the fish, reefs, coastline. Seems that so little of the coastline is protected which makes it easy for poachers and or overfishing. Just in 8 years (snorkeling most days a week) reef health has plummeted and there are very few fish or varieties of fish at most reefs. Tourists notice. And this puts more pressure on Ahihi Kinau Reserve which is a marine preserve; they go there even though not a friendly beginner place as they are guaranteed to see a fish. Yes, it is getting that bad. Many people visiting there do not even realize that this is a marine preserve, do not read the signs and often misstep.
Maui Nui is an amazing organization which i donate yearly to and before covid, was a volunteer on the water quality testing team. They also provide top quality educational presentations on Zoom or at the Ocean Center. the Reef-Friendly landscaping program is a must, and again often funded by donations!!!!
Please really do protect or environment!!!!!! And the increases at DOCARE, Rangers and Maui Nui are excellent places to fund to get your bang for the buck!!!!!!!
Respectfully,
Anne Allison, resident of Maui and ocean lover
Aloha Council Members,
My name is Thomas Kevin Kekoa Dolan-Ma, and I’m writing today to ask that you prioritize funding for rental assistance in the County budget.
Families across Maui County are still struggling to afford housing—especially wildfire survivors and working families who are being priced out of their own communities.
Rental assistance is a lifeline that prevents houselessness, supports local workers, and helps people stay rooted where they live, work, and raise their keiki.
Please invest in programs that help keep our residents housed and our communities strong.
Mahalo nui loa for your time and service.
I wish you enough,
Thomas (he, him)
808.859.0286
I am grateful to live and work in Vancouver, BC and Honolulu, Hawai’i. While in Vancouver on the stolen and unceded lands of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh peoples, and while in Honolulu on the stolen and unceded lands of The Hawaiian Kingdom and the Kanaka Maoli. I acknowledge how I have benefitted and continue to benefit from colonial practices. I’m in a lifelong commitment of unlearning attitudes and acts of oppression, and I’m committed to cultivating respectful and reciprocal relationships with these lands and their ancestral stewards.
Aloha,
My name is Robin Kory, and I own a home in Kihei. I am writing to strongly support increasing the county’s budget for the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council.
The Council monitors water-quality at 41 beaches across Maui, which tells us how healthy our ocean water is. They conduct reef health surveys throughout the year, which tells us how our reefs are changing and where help is needed. They developed Hawaii’s first reef-friendly landscaping program, which teaches landscaping methods that are safer for our reefs. They also established a new coral restoration area in South Maui, which gives damaged corals a second chance at survival.
Our surrounding waters and reefs are one of Maui’s greatest assets. If they die, our way of life and economy will die. We need all the help we can get to protect our beautiful waters and reefs.
Mahalo,
Robin Kory
Aloha,
My name is Ash, and I live in Lahaina. As a manager at Sail Maui, I am reaching out to express my full support for increasing the budget allocation for the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council in the county’s 2026 budget.
At Sail Maui, we provide our guests with the unforgettable experience of snorkeling over Maui's vibrant coral reefs. The health of these reefs is not only crucial for marine biodiversity but directly impacts the quality of experiences we can offer to our visitors, ultimately influencing the sustainability of our business.
The Maui Nui Marine Resource Council's initiatives are integral to our operations and the broader health of Maui’s marine environments.
Water Quality Monitoring
Monitoring water quality at 41 beaches across Maui is vital, as it helps ensure the waters our guests swim in are safe and clean. This directly enhances the guest experience and supports our commitment to environmental stewardship.
Reef Health Surveys
The council’s detailed reef health surveys provide essential data that helps us understand the conditions of the reefs we visit. This knowledge enables us to better educate our guests about reef conservation and adapt our tour routes to minimize environmental impact.
Reef-Friendly Landscaping Program
Promoting landscaping methods that are safer for our reefs protects the aquatic ecosystems that are fundamental to our snorkeling tours. This initiative not only preserves the scenic beauty of Maui but also ensures the longevity of our marine attractions.
Coral Restoration Efforts
The coral restoration area in South Maui is particularly significant for us. It not only aids in the recovery of damaged corals but also serves as a compelling point of interest for our tours, enhancing our educational offerings about coral ecology and conservation efforts.
The continued funding and expansion of the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council's work are essential for maintaining the health of Maui’s marine ecosystems, which are the foundation of our snorkeling tours at Sail Maui. An increase in their budget is an investment in the sustainable future of our local environment and economy.
I strongly advocate for this budget increase and appreciate your consideration of this crucial matter.
Mahalo for supporting our natural heritage and local businesses.
Best regards,
Ash
Ashley | Sail Maui | 808-868-6212 | www.sailmaui.com
Our most important tourist resource is our ocean.
In other places in the world, hotels pay a coral tax and build bio reef to start new life and reefs.
Here, so far, its been the bottom line… money… determining choices that lead in the opposite direction than protection.
Since its the bottom line that speaks… healthy reefs = tourist dollars.
Act now to help the agencies that help protect and monitor ocean life.
Thank you,
With aloha,
Aerie Waters
To whom it may concern,
Aloha – My name is Christine Nelson, and I live in Lahaina. I am writing to strongly support increasing the county’s budget for the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council.
Maui Nui monitors water quality at 41 beaches across the island of Maui. This regular monitoring informs us not only on how healthy our ocean is, but also if our streams are carrying contaminates into our ocean.
They conduct reef health surveys throughout the year which helps us know if our reefs are healthy and growing or if they are dying.
They developed Hawaii’s first reef friendly landscaping program. Teaching landscaping methods that are better and safer for our reefs.
Maui Nui also established a new coral restoration area in S. Maui that gives damaged corals a chance to survive all the abuse it has been given.
The cultural importance of the reefs cannot be overstated. Without our reefs, we will have no more Honu or fish that depend on the coral for food and protection.
The cleanliness of the water is so important for the existence of our food and for recreation.
I again ask that you please continue supporting Maui Nui Marine Resource Council.
Mahalo!
Christine Nelson
707-477-5786
Aloha,
My name is Suparna Vashisht and I live in Kihei. I am writing to strongly support increasing the county’s budget for the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council (MNMRC).
MNMRC does work that is vital for the health of our ocean and land:
- Monitors water-quality at 41 beaches across Maui which tells us how healthy (or not) our ocean water is
- Conducts reef health surveys throughout the year which tells us how our reefs are doing and where help is needed
- Developed Hawaii’s first reef-friendly landscaping program and teaches landscaping methods that are safer for our reefs and better for our ocean health and the health of the endangered and protected species that live there.
-Establishing a new coral restoration area in South Maui which gives damaged corals a second chance at survival
Regards,
Suparna Vashisht
Aloha, Council Members,
To us, the environment is the most important issue we can try to assist. The Maui Nui Marine Resource Council is worth supporting, individually and by the government. (We have a "front row seat” to erosion, storm damage, the warming ocean, dune damage etc. where we live.)
Some of its accomplishments include:
- Monitor water-quality at 41 beaches across Maui: Tells us how healthy our ocean water is
- Conduct reef health surveys throughout the year: Tells us how our reefs are changing and - where help is needed
- Developed Hawaii’s first reef-friendly landscaping program: Teaches landscaping methods that are safer for our reefs
-Established a new coral restoration area in South Maui: Gives damaged corals a second chance at survival
Mahalo for your support.
Bill & Bobbie Best,
Ma'alaea
Aloha,
My name is Christiane Santoro and I live in Pukalani. I am writing to strongly support increasing the county's budget for the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council. It is a very important organization to make sure our ocean water is monitored for water quality. They also do reef surveys throughout the year to make sure that our reefs do not decline further than they already have and have a coral restoration project to help corals survive.
I have travelled to many places to snorkel and know what a healthy reef and fish population can look like. Please help protect our reefs for our ohana and the many visitors our beautiful island has.
Christiane Santoro
Aloha,
My name is Nancy, and I live in Kahului. I am writing to strongly support increasing the county's budget for the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council.
Key Points:
- Monitor water-quality at 41 beaches across Maui: Tells us how healthy our ocean water is
- Conduct reef health survey throughout the year: Tells us how our reefs are changing and where help is needed
- Developed Hawai'i's first reef-friendly landscaping program: Teaches landscaping methods that are safer for our reefs
- Established a new coral restoration area in South Maui: Gives damaged corals a second chance at survival
Thank you,
Nancy Nguyen
Aloha, my name is Ashley Tahauri and I am writing to express my support for the I am writing in support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Maui Nui Botanical Gardens for FY2026. This institution holds particular importance to my family and our community.
I have attended and participated in numerous valuable workshops at the gardens, which have provided me with valuable knowledge, fostered connections, and created lasting memories. The Kamaʻāina lāʻau (native Hawaiian) plants, cultural events such as Hoʻomau, and educational workshops ranging from ʻohe hana ihu to ʻŌhiʻa ROD and seed collection workshop, ʻAwa, Kapa, Kalo, Imu, Lā Hoʻi Hoʻi Eā, Lā Kūʻokoʻa, and many more events that are held there, have contributed to the preservation and promotion of our culture and tūpuna (ancestors). This is a wahi pana (significant place) that we all deeply cherish.
Over the years, I have transitioned into my profession as an Outreach Educator and Reforestation assistant for Uhiwai O Haleakalā. We have been fortunate to utilize this space to teach our Maui ʻōpio (youth) the art of native seed processing, plant identification, and the moʻolelo (stories) and traits of these plants. Additionally, I have facilitated educational workshops that emphasize the importance of ecosystem protection. While we were unable to take the youth into the mountains due to hazardous conditions, I was able to provide them with an alternative learning experience at Maui Nui Botanical Gardens—a safe and conducive space where they could engage in meaningful activities and receive the necessary guidance.
I have also participated as an outreach educator at various events held at the gardens, including Lā ʻUlu, Arbor Day, and most recently Hoʻomau. I appreciate the native plant sales, the seedbank, the knowledge provided, and the diverse range of educational and fun activities offered by the gardens for our community! I have witnessed many malihini-outside visitors come to this place and gain respect and knowledge of our people and Kānaka Maoli culture.
Maui Nui Botanical Gardens offers a wealth of resources and opportunities, and I strongly advocate for financial support to further its mission.
I am writing in support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Maui Nui Botanical Gardens for FY2026. My name is Audrey Tamashiro-Kamii. I have participated in and attended many community events held at the Gardens that promote the appreciation, protection and preservation of Maui Nuiʻs native plants and cultural heritage. They offer workshops on the propagation, care and cultural uses of native species, and educate the public on Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death and other threats to our watersheds. They also house a seed bank to ensure we will always have a source of viable native seed for future outplantings in the event of wildfires and other disasters that may cause native plant populations to decline. Maui Nui Botanical Gardens is an integral part of our community. I humbly ask for your full support of their line-item grant for FY2026.
I am writing in support of the Department of Agriculture line item grant to Maui Nui Botanical Gardens for FY2026. The garden is the best community resource I know of for learning which native plants will grow on our property as we seek to replace introduced plants with native ones. The garden is also a great location to spend time as a family when we are in town and have time between appointments. I also appreciate the free plants we've obtained when we stop, expanding my knowledge of native plants. Mahalo for your consideration. Aloha, Warren
In Support of Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Maui Nui Botanical Gardens for FY2026.
The MNBG staff has so much passion for what they do, to share this garden of native plants to grow beyond the borders of the garden, sharing with the community so that the native plants are seen all over Maui County.
MNBG is such a special place, the Garden connects Native plants to the community, connects the Hawaiian culture to the community.
MNBG is a place that brings the community together with such free events as the La'Ulu Festival and the Arbor Day Free tree giveaway event. Mahalo to all of you.
I am writing in support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Maui Nui Botanical Gardens. Of particular interest to my ohana is their ongoing support and educational outreach for the production and use of Breadfruit. Ulu is a vital component of local food source for Maui and they have made a big difference in how many people are willing and able to grow and eat this staple.
I am in support of Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Maui Nui Botanical Gardens for FY2026.” That organization is instrumental in educating visitors and residents about appropriate plants for Maui. I personally have taken advantage of free and for sale native plants to plant where I live.
I am writing in support of the Department of Agriculture line item grant to Maui Nui Botanical Gardens. The Gardens are the best resource on island for learning about native plants and supporting Hawaiian culture. I have been countless times for the weekly plant sale, workshops and events, and each time I learn something new. They have hosted fantastic cultural practitioners to teach weaving ‘eke and pāpale. I hope to continue taking class from these teachers and have already recommended them to many friends. La ‘Ulu and Ho‘omau were beautiful gatherings for the community and also supported Hawaiian education, arts, and local businesses. Maui needs more community spaces like the gardens with low-barrier cost to entry that fosters arts and culture.
I am writing in support of the Department of Agriculture line item grant to Maui Nui Botanical Gardens. The gardens are a valuable resource in our community to help foster learning and appreciation of the natural world and Hawaiian cultural ideas and practices for both kama'aina and visitors to Maui.
I am writing in support of the Department of Agriculture line item grant to Maui Nui Botanical Gardens. The Botanical Gardens have made an incredibly important impact on me personally; they have helped foster and facilitate in me a love for the 'āina and for our native plants. They deserve all the support they can get. I would not have all the knowledge and care for the 'aina without them.