Gloria's Big Island Tree Mapping Adventure

TOC interns -- Gloria, Myles, and Lindsey -- with Hawaii County Council Member Dru Kanuha in front of the Exceptional Tree located on Ali'i Drive in Kailua-Kona.

The Circle is blessed to have the support of dedicated interns throughout the year.  Here is an update from one intern, Gloria, on the tree mapping trip they took Hawaii Island: 

I have been an intern for the Outdoor Circle for almost six months. During my internship I have gained “real world” skills such as event planning, social media marketing, and most important, I am working on the first of its kind Exceptional Tree Map.  When I found out I was going to Big Island from the funds raised from #GIVIGTUESDAY,  I was beyond excited.  I am from Tampa, and have never been to the other islands.

On March 4th, I flew to Kona with TOC interns Myles Ritchie and Lindsey Howard.  As soon as we landed we started “ground-truthing” trees in Kona and then made our way to Hilo.  The next day we met with members from the Waimea Outdoor Circle branch at Kalopa State Park to continuing the ground-truthing effort and share the techniques we have learned.  On our last day I scheduled a meeting with Kailua-Kona Councilman Dru Kanuha.  We discussed the Exceptional Tree Map and the importance of a Hawaii Island Arborist Committee.  

I am very appreciative of The Outdoor Circle for providing me this unique opportunity.  During the Hawaii Island trip I was able to go see the ocean and snow all in the same day!  We did a lot of driving, walking, and data-collecting for the Exceptional Tree map -- it was grueling, but totally worth it.  Mahalo nui loa for one of the most amazing experiences!

            

---