Save the Reef Orientation For Volunteers in Puako (Nov. 15)

Puako sits on a rich coral reef fishery at the edge of a kiawe forest on ancient lava flows, and is home to many diverse coral reefs and associated species. The surrounding coral reef of Puako is regarded by many as one of the Kohala Coast’s premier snorkel spots and a very popular site for visitors, so it must be managed with care. This can be done via state and federally enforced regulations, as well as increasing the awareness of those people enjoying the marine resources of the area.

Puako’s Pristine Coastline

Orientation for New Volunteers

Volunteers are needed to help save our reefs by educating visitors, swimmers, snorkelers, and divers on how to protect the delicate corals at these beaches and beyond. Healthy reefs are essential to the vitality and abundance of our marine life.

Puako Makai Watch and ReefTeach and are enlisting new volunteers for Waialea Bay (Beach 69) and Paniau Beach in Puako and will hold an orientation for volunteers this Friday, Nov. 15, at 6:00 PM at Hokuloa Church, 1600 Puako Beach Drive.

Waialea Bay (Beach 69)

Volunteers set their own schedules and spend time at the beach, so if you love Puako’s abundant tide pools, great beach combing, magnificent sunsets, sea turtles, and some of the island’s best scuba diving, snorkeling, and favorite surf spots then perhaps you want to become a reef volunteer!

For more information, please contact:

• Cindi Punihaole at (808) 895-1010 or cpunihaole@kohalacenter.org
• Puako Makai Watch Ranger Randy Clarke at (808) 345-1345 or rpkclarke@hotmail.com

Adopt-a-Day

Businesses and schools may contact Punihaole or Clarke for information on how to Adopt-a-Day for their team at Paniau or Waialea Bay.

ReefTeach is a volunteer program of the Kahaluu Bay Education Center and The Kohala Center. The Puako Makai Watch program is organized by the community with assistance from the Department of Lands and Natural Resources and The Nature Conservancy.