Hawaii Ecosystems meeting, Hilo HI

Peter Vitousek reminding us why research in Hawaii is so important...and that we can't go over our time limit!

Following a morning of presentations we go outside to discuss what makes Hawaii a model system, and what are the most interesting research directions for comparing Hawaii with mainland forests.

Discussion about how scientists can get more involved with conservation. We made a list of the unique qualities that scientists can bring to the table and ways we can reach out to the public in a productive way.

Kye Epps showing us a diagram explaining her ideas for how to leverage existing organizational networks (agencies, universities, etc.) so scientists can reach a broader audience.

Seed counting at the Institute for Pacific Islands Forestry (IPIF)

 First we get everything set up: bags of seeds, paper bags, bins, sieves, paint brushes, funnels, and petri dishes.

Then we put on the "cool" magnifier headset, grab a set of forceps and....

 ....count the seeds from the sifted litter and record data.

 For extra fun we count tiny seeds under the scope. Here's Laura Super counting ohelo (Vaccinium calycinum) seeds in several fruits to get an average seeds per fruit. Mahalo for your patience, Laura!!

Ohelo (Vaccinium calycinum) seeds on a petri dish with a 1x1cm grid. So tiny and pretty!

Palamanui Dry Forest

A'ali'i fruit (Dodonea viscosa) at Palamanui.

Laura Super and Jenni Diep help measure seedlings in the Palamanui HIPPNET plot.

A'ali'i seedling (Dodonea viscosa) at Palamanui.

Native forest seedling census

Here's a picture of my new research assistant, Laura Super. Look for her blog for even more photos.

Slug on an Olapa seedling (Cheirodendron trigynum).

 Faith checking the seed traps at Laupahoehoe.

 Girl power!! Laura Super and Holli Tidwell get 'er done!