Fairmont Orchid Sponsors Tree Giveaway to Honor Earth Day

Earth Day

In honor of Earth Day, Fairmont Orchid, a luxury resort along the pristine Kohala Coast of Hawai‘i Island, is pleased to announce the sponsorship of a wiliwili tree giveaway in partnership with the Waikōloa Dry Forest Initiative. The event will take place at the dry forest on Saturday, April 20 from 8 a.m. to noon, during which time the public is also invited to explore the preserve through self-guided hikes and plant nursery tours.

Mālama ’āina

“We are pleased to partner with the Waikōloa Dry Forest Initiative to offer residents an opportunity to mālama ʻāina (care for the land) right in their own backyards by providing free wiliwili trees to the community,” shares Charles Head, General Manager of Fairmont Orchid. “This native tree species is ideally suited to our local climate, it provides a habitat for native birds, and has tremendous cultural significance. It’s our hope that residents feel rooted to the Hawaiian culture as they plant this tree and play an active role in restoring our ecosystem.”

Wiliwili Tree Giveaway

The wiliwili is an iconic tree of the native lowland dry forests of Hawai‘i. The lightweight wood of the wiliwili tree was used by early Hawaiians to build ama on canoes, fishing gear, containers, and surfboards. Flowers were used to make lei and also utilized for medicinal purposes.

“We want to encourage people who may be new to tree planting that it’s entirely possible for them to successfully plant and care for this special native tree—even if they feel they don’t have a green thumb,” says Jen Lawson, Executive Director of Waikōloa Dry Forest Initiative. “Planting trees in their native environment means they have a better chance at surviving and thriving, while offering shelter and food for native wildlife. Our staff is happy to be on hand to answer any horticultural questions people may have and encourage them to get better acquainted with the dry forest.”

The free wiliwili trees will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis during the giveaway event. The public is asked to come prepared with sun protection, sturdy shoes, and a water bottle.