Ilio point, on northwestern most point of the hawaiian island of molokai, contains unique coastal and marine wetland ecosystems, and native and endangered species that are threatened by impacts from…

Ilio point, on northwestern most point of the hawaiian island of molokai, contains unique coastal and marine wetland ecosystems, and native and endangered species that are threatened by impacts from feral predators, invasive plants, and exploding populations of deer. In fact, an emergency proclamation due to the deer overpopulation has been issued by the governor for the second consecutive year for this island. The reserve contains biodiverse sand dunes that historically have been important seabird nesting areas, but remaining native plants are being browsed to the ground, and seabird nests are being crushed by deer or preyed upon by cats. Intertidal areas in the reserve are important resting and pupping areas for critically endangered hawaiian monk seals (monachus schauinslandi), and used by green sea turtles (chelonia mydas) for hauling and resting. Large predators such as cats and dogs disturb these animals and spread lethal diseases such as toxoplasmosis. In adjacent areas, predator proof fences are being constructed to combat these threats. The success of these other restoration areas of northwestern molokai has demonstrated the ability for the windswept coastal native vegetation to recover and attract seabird nesting colonies. This project seeks to construct a fence at ilio that will protect this area from deer and large predators. Ilio is strategically important due to its topography that is conducive to fencing, presence of endangered species, and large expanses of rare coastal sand dunes. Ilio will be a key addition to a network of coastal restoration sites, and strengthen the entire network by creating a larger, more defensible, protected area that can attract more seabirds, and serve as another outplanting site. Matching funds will be provided to protect the nearby moomomi preserve, the other large expanse of coastal sand dunes in this region and a site where an existing fence is demonstrating restoration potential. This proposed ilio project would expand a promising coastal partnership including state owned ilio point and the adjacent privately owned preserves. While ilio has largely been neglected, that trend can be reversed by building on the success of decades of protection at the neighboring preserves. Objectives exclude invasive feral large predators (cats and dogs) and deer by constructing a fence and removing these animals in the 190 AC fence unit. This will restore coastal dunes and the intertidal habitat, reduce erosion, and decrease contamination of intertidal areas, coral reefs, and nearshore waters. Matching funds will support the preservation of the nearby moomomi preserve, including fence maintenance, continued predator and deer removal, invasive plant removal, and seabird and other native species monitoring. Additionally, funds will involve and educate communities to inspire appreciation for this rare coastal ecosystem.