Aloha All,
Autumn is approaching, such as it is in Hawaii. There is much to consider besides cooler weather and football. The election cycle may not only determine the Presidency, but also the makeup of the Senate and the House. The outcome may impact Federal programs and funding over several years. In the near term, Congressional action will be needed to keep funds for government programs flowing. The outcome is difficult to predict, but I think the USFWS and our O’ahu refuge complex staff will be faced with austere funding to support the great programs that are ongoing. Staff shortages are likely to continue.
These are my thoughts alone, but my conclusion is that we as a group of refuge supporters can do much to help in the coming year. I requested information on areas in which individuals can assist, and Refuge Complex Manager Joshua Ream provided several avenues to support. Friends can help by identifying core volunteers and managing the volunteer program. Among the areas Joshua suggested are the following:
. Attending community association meetings to help serve as information liaisons
. Writing and managing grant opportunities and programs.
. Assisting in a variety of administrative areas.
. Greenhouse Operations
. Habitat restoration-weeding, out planting and watering as needed.
. Environmental Education. Working with Interns to assist in school forums and events.
The above list is partial. The bottom line is that the small and very busy staff can use help. We will provide more detail on who to contact and what permits may be needed (those are issued by USFWS). I think many of you who have a desire to help can find a role that supports the O`ahu NWR Complex and meets your schedule and talents.
We ask one thing: To support the refuges, we as Friends need to grow our membership and the funds to accomplish our plans. Please check the website and sign up as a member. Membership is annual and cost is low. Mahalo!
What’s Ahead for the Friends Schedule?
We are established as a 501c3, our tax exemption is current, as is our insurance, and we have no bills to pay at this time. We have a small membership, and we have a modest treasury so are solvent for the near future. We will hold our Annual Meeting in early December, and that will be open to all members. It will probably be a Zoom or MS Teams meeting. This meeting sets the stage for efforts in 2025. Among the main topics:
-A draft budget is in work for next three years, and we will make the proposed budget available in advance.
-Election of Directors and Officers. Terms of existing directors, except for one, expire on December 31. Some may be interested in continuing to serve. I will step down as President and as a director. We have some great nominees and are crafting a slate. If interested, please let us know.
-Social events and fund-raisers: We’d like to hold an event which can serve as a membership party, socialize with our USFWS associates, and perhaps as a fund-raiser. If we include fund-raising, the event will have to occur off refuge property and we will consider options for early 2025.
I do want to thank you for considering membership and support of the group. We can make a real difference in the success of the refuges on island and can ensure that despite short-staffing and austere funding, the refuges serve as unique and critical places for wildlife. A special mahalo to the officers and directors who have seen us through start-up.
Mahalo,
Dick May
Current President
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