Hawai‘i’s diverse ecosystems are home to some of the world’s most unique plant and animal species. Preserving these natural resources is vital not only for the environment but also for the well-being of local communities.
Recognizing this, the military is actively working with partners to support conservation efforts while maintaining readiness. One of the most impactful programs in this effort is the Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) Program.
Established in 2003 by the Department of Defense, the REPI Program is a collaborative effort between the military and local, state, and federal partners to address environmental challenges that could impact military operations. Through more than 110 partnerships nationwide, including several long-standing efforts in Hawai‘i, REPI helps protect critical habitats and native ecosystems, enhance land and water conservation efforts, and support long-term military readiness. Between 2006 and 2024, a total of 15,830 acres were conserved across six military installations throughout Hawai‘i.
In 2024, the REPI Program committed over $15.8 million to support conservation and resilience projects across Hawai‘i. These projects focus on wildfire prevention, habitat protection, watershed restoration, and sustainable land use, benefiting both military readiness and environmental health.
James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge (Oʻahu)
This project involves constructing a predator exclusion fence to protect 640 acres of coastal dunes, shrublands, and wetlands, providing a safe habitat for native bird species like the mōlī (Laysan albatross) and kaʻupu (black-footed albatross). It also includes invasive species control to maintain biodiversity and reduce flood risk.
Kākoʻo ʻŌiwi Project (Oʻahu)
In partnership with Kākoʻo ʻŌiwi, this project focuses on the restoration of loʻi kalo (irrigated taro terraces), wetlands, lowland forests, and traditional Hawaiian fishponds. The project improves water quality, enhances habitats, and supports traditional food production, helping to mitigate terrestrial runoff on coral ecosystems in Kāneʻohe Bay.
Forest/Watershed Protection Above Mānā Plain (Kauaʻi)
This project supports invasive plant control to protect native forests, reduce wildfire risks, and enhance aquifer recharge. It also includes endangered seabird monitoring and community engagement in fire response
Flood Management and Habitat Protection (Kauaʻi)
In partnership with the Kekaha Agriculture Association, this project focuses on restoring open floodable areas to serve as habitats for endangered Hawaiian birds while also mitigating flooding and improving water quality. Efforts include ungulate-proof fencing, removal of invasive vegetation, and predator control.
Ecosystem Restoration and Rare Species Protection (Oʻahu)
This project involves reintroducing rare plant and animal species into protected habitats and managing invasive species. It supports the Oʻahu ʻelepaio and ʻōpeʻapeʻa (Hawaiian hoary bat), while also implementing fire suppression strategies to protect native ecosystems.
Nāpuʻu Wildland Fire Management (Hawai‘i Island)
This ongoing project works to create firebreaks that slow the spread of fires, to restore native vegetation to reduce flammable ground cover, and to implement community based fire prevention strategies. Collaborative efforts focus on enhancing the resilience of training areas while protecting neighboring communities.
The REPI Program’s success lies in its ability to bring together diverse stakeholders to address both environmental and military readiness goals. These collaborative projects help maintain training capabilities while actively supporting Hawai‘i’s natural landscapes.
By investing in REPI initiatives, the military demonstrates its commitment to responsible stewardship of Hawai‘i’s unique ecosystems. These projects not only safeguard training capabilities but also protect ecosystems that are vital to Hawai‘i’s identity and future. As a community partner, MACRO supports the visibility of programs like REPI that demonstrate the intersection of environmental stewardship and defense readiness and remains dedicated to fostering partnerships that balance readiness with conservation.
For more information about REPI projects and conservation efforts in Hawai‘i, visit https://www.repi.mil/Buffer-Projects/REPI-Pacific/.