About Us

The Akaka Foundation for Tropical Forests was founded in honor of former United States Senator Daniel K. Akaka, and in recognition of his lifelong commitment to the protection and promotion of Hawaii’s natural and cultural resources.
Our Vision

Vibrant forest communities alive with the voices of Hawai‘i from one generation to the next.
Our Mission

To enhance and promote a forest stewardship ethic that embraces biocultural restoration and conservation strategies through integration of traditional and western knowledge and through strategic cooperation among private and public organizations.
Ulu Lehulehu Initiative

Ulu Lehulehu “Million 'Ōhi'a Initiative” promotes the protection, planting and restoration of 'Ōhi'a Lehua (Metrosideros polymorpha), a Hawai‘i endemic tree and the monarch of Hawaii’s natural world.
Koa Inititive

The Koa Initiative promotes traditional improvement and planting of Acacia koa, a fast growing tree species found only in Hawai'i and the state’s premier timber species.
Cultural Keystones Inititive

Cultural Keystones Initiative promotes the planting and restoration of plant species of high cultural and ecological value to Hawai‘i, including Kamani, Kou, Milo, Kauila, Iliahi, Alahe‘e, and Lama.