What Lurks In The Landscape Of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park?

Published Date

May 12, 2015

The 'Apapane finch is known to live at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, but what else does?/NPS

What mysteries lurk in the landscape of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park? We'll have some inklings this coming weekend in the wake of a two-day "bioblitz" at the island park.

More than 160 scientists and traditional cultural practitioners from Hawai'i and around the country are expected to be on hand to lead students and the general public in a two-day race to count as many species of plants and animals as possible and better appreciate the dynamic culture of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. More than 850 students from local schools will participate on Friday, May 15, as part of this ultimate field trip provided by National Geographic, the National Park Service and event supporters. National Park Service and National Geographic leadership, Native FM's Jaz Kaiwiko'o Yglesias and award-winning recording artist Keoki Kahumoku will help kick off the festivities Friday.

Themed I ka nÄnÄ no a 'ike ('By observing, one learns'), the Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park BioBlitz is part scientific endeavor, part outdoor classroom excursion and part celebration of biodiversity and culture. Online registration is now open to join scientist-led inventory teams. No experience is required, just a desire to explore, work side-by-side with a scientist, document findings and learn more about this diverse national park. Inventory teams are best for ages 8 and up; minors (under 18) must be accompanied by an adult.

In order to coincide with the BioBlitz, the park moved its 35th annual Cultural Festival from July to May this year and expanded it to include biodiversity. Embodying 'I ka nÄnÄ no a 'ike' principles, the Biodiversity & Cultural Festival will offer hands-on science and cultural exhibits, food, art, family-friendly activities and entertainment.

Both the BioBlitz and the Biodiversity & Cultural Festival are free and open to the public Friday and Saturday. BioBlitz 'base camp' and the festival will be located at the Kahua Hula overlooking Halema'uma'u Crater near KÄ«lauea Visitor Center. Public parking will be available at KÄ«lauea Military Camp. Participants will receive free entrance to the park, free parking and free shuttle bus service to and from KMC. Online registration is required to guarantee a spot on an inventory team. No registration is required for the festival. To learn more about BioBlitz and the festival, visit nationalgeographic.com/bioblitz.

WHEN/WHERE:

BioBlitz Opening Ceremony

Friday, May 15, 11:30 a.m.

The Kahua Hula overlooking Halema'uma'u Crater near KÄ«lauea Visitor Center

Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

Biodiversity & Cultural Festival

Friday, May 15, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. / Saturday, May 16, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

BioBlitz Closing Ceremony, emceed by Mileka Lincoln

Saturday, May 16, 3 p.m.-4 p.m.

Stories about:

Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

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