December 21, 2009

WAILUKU, Maui, Hawaii- Mayor Charmaine Tavares announced today that the County of Maui has executed grants totaling $312, 500 to Tri-Isle Resource Conservation and Development Council, Inc. and Maui Nui Botanical Gardens in a continued effort to support environmental protection and education.

Tri-Isle Resource Conservation and Development Council, Inc. received two $100,000 grants for watershed protection. Funds from the grants will be used to support the Lanai Forest and Watershed Partnership in purchasing materials and labor for the Lana’ ihale Summit Fence Project, Increment III; and the East Maui Watershed Partnership for labor towards reforestation efforts, continued watershed threat abatement programs in Koolau and Hana Forest Reserves, continued public outreach and environmental programs and conservation efforts.

Established in 1970, Tri-Isle Resource Conservation and Development Council, Inc. is a rural development program of the Federal Government, which supports “projects that enhance the quality of life in Maui County through economic development and protection of our natural resources.”

Maui Nui Botanical Gardens received $112,500 for operational expenses which will be used to support staffing and management of the Gardens.

Maui Nui Botanical Gardens fosters appreciation and understanding of Hawaii in the community by environmental education, celebration of Hawaiian cultural expression, conservation, and biological study and recreation, with an emphasis on the plants of Maui Nui.

For more information, call the Office of the Mayor at (808) 270-7855 or visit www.mauicounty.gov