Survey shows interest for planting native trees along Rice Street

A recent report published by the Rice Street Business Association, Better Block Hawaiʻi and Solid Ground Connections indicates overwhelming support for replacing dead and dying trees, shrubs and plants along Rice Street with healthy, native greenery.

The report is part of the Līhuʻe Placemaking, Forestry & Gardens Initiative – an effort being spearheaded by the Rice Street Business Association and Better Block Hawaiʻi, in close partnership with the County of Kauaʻi Office of Economic Development and grassroots organizations.

The goal of the project is to build valued community green spaces in Līhuʻe and develop a shared vision for future green infrastructure along Rice Street.

To guide this effort, the team’s lead conservationist, Sari Pastore of Understory Alliance, developed and distributed a community survey with the goals to better understand the community’s preference for certain types of tree and plant species, and the willingness of the community to support and engage in the project. Key report findings include:

• 90% of survey respondents supported revitalization of the dead, unhealthy, or damaged street trees on Rice Street with healthy, native trees and plants
• 82% of survey respondents indicated that they would walk along Rice Street and visit local businesses more often if there were more street trees and shade from canopy
• 77% of survey respondents had the strongest preference for planting native shade trees and 60% indicated their strongest preferences was for food trees

Based on community input, as well as a review of existing studies and plans, the report outlines
recommendations for the types of native trees and ground cover, non-invasive dwarf food trees, and culturally appropriate herbaceous plants that should be planted along Rice Street.

Recommended species include alaheʻe, hōʻawa, ʻukiʻuki, kupu kupu, tahitian lime, among many others. Many of these species have been documented as currently and successfully growing in Līhuʻe.

The report also outlines planting challenges (such as water, utilities, and maintenance) and strategies to address these barriers.

As a next step, the team is now working with the County Parks Department to develop a street tree planting and maintenance plan.