Congrats to Haleakala Ranch for recieving the 2025 Community Hero award!

The 2025 Hawaiʻi Invasive Species Awareness Month (HISAM) Recognition Day placed a well-deserved spotlight on Haleakalā Ranch, whose leadership in managing invasive species on Maui has made them a standout example of environmental stewardship in Hawaiʻi. As the Community Hero Awardee, Haleakalā Ranch was honored for its long-term, hands-on work tackling gorse and invasive axis deer, efforts that continue to evolve through innovative land management practices and collaboration. 

The day began with the Hawaiʻi Invasive Species Council (HISC) meeting, where statewide updates were shared, followed by the awardee recognition ceremony. Haleakalā Ranch and other honorees were celebrated and presented with lei and their 2025 HISAM awards. At the HISAM Awards Luncheon, hosted by Senator Gabbard and Representative Kahaloa, attendees had the opportunity to engage directly with awardees, and interact with the live invasive species displays. At the luncheon, leaders from agriculture, conservation, and community organizations had the opportunity to talk story.

The day concluded with a proclamation ceremony led by Governor Josh Green. In his address, Gov. Green acknowledged the uphill battle Hawaiʻi faces in managing invasive species and commended this year’s honorees for their essential role in preserving the health and resilience of Hawaiʻi’s ecosystems. This year’s Recognition Day served as a powerful reminder of what’s possible when landowners, communities, and government leaders unite with a shared purpose. Haleakalā Ranch’s leadership—alongside other dedicated ranchers across Hawaiʻi—stands out in the ongoing fight against invasive species. Your commitment does not go unnoticed. We mahalo you for your continued work, and we look forward to finding new ways to collaborate and strengthen our collective impact.