Posted on: Friday, December 13, 2002

Kealia refuge marks 10 years with open house tomorrow

Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge on Maui will celebrate its 10th anniversary with an open house tomorrow.

Located along the North Kihei shoreline, the refuge was established in 1992 to protect endangered Hawaiian stilts and coots, and to provide habitat for wintering waterfowl. Other projects include community cleanups of the refuge and the neighboring area, propagating and planting native vegetation in areas previously overgrown with invasive species, and completing plans for a 2,000-foot boardwalk, with work expected to begin next year. More than 500 volunteers have contributed a total of at least 20,000 hours at Kealia Pond, according to Glynnis Nakai, refuge manager.

The public may view native and migratory birds from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays. Guided tours will be provided at 9 and 11 a.m. tomorrow as part of 10th anniversary observance. Visitors also can walk around the pond from 8 a.m. to noon. Information: (808) 875-1582.