Hawaii Conservation Week kicks off with a family fishing Sunday

HONOLULU—During the last week of July, the State of Hawaii observes Conservation Week in recognition of the need to take care of Hawaii’s unique natural environment.

Next week marks Hawaii’s fifth annual Conservation Week, coordinated by the Hawaii Conservation Alliance.

Events throughout the week aim to increase public awareness of key conservation issues affecting Hawaii’s lands and seas and unite the islands’ leadership in identifying conservation-related priorities of statewide significance.

“Hawaii is blessed with a magnificent natural environment and abundant resources,” said T. ‘Aulani Wilhelm, chair of the Hawaii Conservation Alliance. “Living amid such beauty is a constant reminder of the role we play as stewards of the land and sea, responsible for ensuring that these resources will be enjoyed for many generations to come.”

This year’s Conservation Week kicks off on Sunday July 24 with a free family fishing day at Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden in Kaneohe.

Other events include:

· A Natural Treasures of Hawaii Lecture featuring Assistant State Soil Scientist Cynthia Stiles from the USDA, Natural Resources Conservation Service.

· An art exhibit opening reception showcasing Maui-based painter and park ranger Melissa Chimera’s Splendor: Portraits of the Natural World and Honolulu-based nature writer and poet Adele Ne Jame, who will read poems inspired by the remote Hawaiian wilderness from her new book The South Wind. The two artists will also share from their collaboration Land and Spirit commissioned by the Sharjah 2009 Biennial.

· A Hawaii Conservation Volunteer Fair, where participants can shop for volunteer opportunities to help Hawaii’s natural environment.

The full Conservation Week calendar can be seen at www.hawaiiconservation.org/2011hcw.