First Annual ʻĀkoʻakoʻa Reef Restoration Partner's Meeting

First Annual Partner's Meeting: Mahalo Everyone

The ‘Āko'ako'a program started 2025 strong with the First Annual ‘Āko'ako'a Reef Restoration Partner’s Meeting hosted at our Ridge-to-Reef Restoration Center in Kailua-Kona. This meeting brought together marine-focused programs partners from DLNR DAR, NOAA, Hawai‘i County Mayor’s Office, Resources Legacy Fund, and Wastewater Alternatives and Innovations, as well as our Cultural Advisory Board members representing Hui ‘Ohana O Hōnaunau, Kalanihale, Kauhakō Ohana Association, Nā Kālai Wa‘a, and The Kohala Center. These partners represent all aspects of the ʻĀko'ako'a 4-pillar solution, from advanced science and cultural leadership, to multi-modal education and government support.

During the meeting, we shared last year’s successes, new questions were posed, and plans for the future were embarked upon. It was an opportunity for each integral partner to share their roles with the group and celebrate the successes that everyone has played a vital role in achieving. ‘Āko'ako'a has a dual meaning that translates to “bring together people” and to “bring together corals”. What better way to celebrate the past year of the efforts of the ‘Āko'ako'a, because the successes are based on this fusion. 

‘Āko'ako'a also formally welcomed the program's newest partners from the Resource Legacy Fund (RLF) and Wastewater Alternatives and Innovations (WAI), represented by Jocelyn Herbert (RLF) and Stuart Coleman (WAI). RLF partners with philanthropy, advocates, government, academia, and business to catalyze action for conservation, environmental equity and justice, and climate solutions. WAI works to mitigate the Hawaiʻi cesspool crisis, protect water quality, reduce sewage pollution and restore healthy watersheds. Having these partners on board will allow us to grow our efforts through all aspects of our 4-pillar solution on a high-level.