Hawai‘i’s forests just got a major boost with $9.1 million in federal funding to support reforestation and carbon-capturing projects, announced by U.S. Senator Brian Schatz. This investment aims to tackle climate change impacts while restoring local ecosystems and increasing biodiversity.

Of the funding, nearly $4.2 million will go to Terraformation, a Kailua-Kona-based reforestation company. Terraformation plans to use this support to develop tools that capture carbon and help local agriculture adapt to changing climate conditions, enhancing the resilience of Hawai‘i’s food systems. Terraformation’s Terraware platform, already used by forestry teams worldwide, will support this project by simplifying field data management and tracking forest growth in real-time.

Another $4.9 million will fund projects led by the Hawai‘i Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW). DOFAW’s efforts will focus on restoring high-value forest areas by planting 80,000 native trees and removing invasive plants from 1,200 acres. These projects are set in regions with high potential for carbon sequestration and are critical habitats for endangered species.

These investments reflect Hawai‘i’s ongoing commitment to climate action and environmental health. By restoring native ecosystems and advancing reforestation tools, Hawai‘i is paving the way for a more sustainable, climate-resilient future.