Crews replace kiawe trees at Makena Landing with native ones | News [Video]

MAUI, Hawai’i (Island News) — Some Maui residents were upset after several kiawe trees that were removed from the popular Makena Landing beach park, but the group that manages the area said they are replacing them with native ones, a move many have been calling for.

Leahi Hall, the community engagement director for Discovery Land Company, which oversees the facility, said, “What we have is the opportunity to learn a little bit more about what plants thrive in this place and what plants are really good for the soil.”

The new trees replacing the kiawe include Milo, Kou and Kukui. 

Hall reported the removal and planting efforts were partly intended to ensure safety.

In 2022, two large kiawe trees over 40 feet …