Murphy Boksanski

Waialua Cacao Farm Restoration used the DII grant to support the restoration of a cacao farm that was heavily damaged by flooding. Through multiple volunteer workdays and one-on-one support sessions, the project team was able to clear debris, save dozens of cacao trees, repair the chicken coop, and restore portions of the farm to working condition. Materials, supplies, and food were also provided to support volunteers during the workdays.

The project helped bring the community together, and several volunteers have continued returning regularly to help maintain the farm. In Waialua, the restoration effort became an important opportunity for the community to unite in the immediate aftermath of the flooding. It gave residents a chance to support the farm and contribute directly to restoring a place that had been significantly impacted by the disaster.

Native youth played a key role in the project, working alongside other volunteers and gaining hands-on experience in restoration and land stewardship. The effort also helped strengthen intergenerational connections within the community, and several youth participants have remained involved, continuing to support the farm’s ongoing recovery.