 |
The Kaua‘i Watershed Alliance Projects Kanaele Bog Protective Fence and Weed Control |
 |
Home About the KWA The Watershed Projects Management Programs Volunteer Information Maps and Documents Photo Gallery Conservation Links Contacts |
| (Updated July 25, 2008) BACK |
 |
 |
| Kanaele Bog, located above the town of Kalaheo (view map), is the states only remaining intact lowland native bog. However, it is under threat from feral pigs and alien plants such as strawberry guava, Melastoma, downy rosemyrtle, and bushy beard grass. The KWA proposed constructing a hog-wire fence around the 56 acre bog within which pigs and problem weeds would be excluded. A boardwalk is also planned to reduce effects of human presence while allowing for increased access. The proposed project was planned to be completed in 2009 with fence construction scheduled to begin in the first quarter or 2008. True to schedule, the fence was completed by the beginning of April 2008 by contractor Albert Agliam of Remote Fencing Outfitters, inc. View photos. Upon completion of the fenceline in April, vegetation monitoring plots were established. In early July, a group of Hawaii Youth Conservation Corp (HYCC) volunteers performed the areas first major weeding opperation covering 5.38 acres and eliminating nearly 14000 weeds from the area. Guava comprised the majority of weeds and were hand pulled when possible. Larger trees required treatment with minimal amounts of herbicide. View photos. |
| Hibiscus ula is one of 20 plants that grow in Kanaele Bog and nowhere else. |
| Kanaele Bog is Hawai‘i's only remaining example of a large, intact, native lowland bog. |
 |
 |
| Map of work area covered by a 12 person team over three full days of on the ground weed control efforts. 13,977 weeds on 5.38 acres. |