Honoring Jacques Cousteau – Red Cap Day

Planting native, low-lying shrubs of ʻākulikuli at Paiko Lagoon Wildlife Sanctuary. Credit: Kahi Fujii/NOAA.

On June 25, 2012 Papahānaumokuākea (PMNM) & Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary (HIHWNMS) staff members participated in two restoration projects within our community in memory of Jacques Cousteau & in celebration of "Red Cap Day." Staff members were briefed on the projects by Maunalua Fishpond Heritage representative, Chris Cramer, during our "Cousteau Film Day" which was held on Friday, June 22. Staff members first gathered at the Paiko Lagoon Wildlife Sanctuary and assisted in the removal of invasive plants and planting of native low-lying shrubs (ʻākulikuli). Staff members then moved on to the second site (Kanewai Spring/Fishpond) to assist in the removal of invasive fish and planting of native grass (makaloa), to encourage and promote a healthy environment for native fish to flourish and to support the health of the greater surrounding fishpond.

PMNM & HIHWNMS Staff members pose for a photo after a good day of restoration work at Kanewai Spring. Credit: Matthew Limtiaco/NOAA.

Planting native, low-lying shrubs of ʻākulikuli. Credit: Kanani Medeiros/NOAA.