Protocol of forest protection or “Weed Interdiction Protocol” is a tangible set of guidelines to physically protect the forest. Some may be more rigorous than time will allow, but we request you comply as much as possible. These guidelines for both staff and volunteers are derived from standards used by the National Park Service. At the very least, please brush and remove seeds from your shoes, clothing and vehicle before coming to Ka`üpülehu. The most exhausting and demanding work is eradicating the weeds already here. Ideal guidelines follow for procedures that should eliminate, or minimize, the introduction of weeds, insects and alien species. Your best effort to kokua is appreciated.
- Before coming to Ka`üpülehu, or at the end of a day in any forest, all rain gear and boots should be rinsed with water at home. Make sure that all mud, seeds, and other plant material have been rinsed off. Boots should be also brushed off and the treads cleaned out. Also check for seeds and other material along the tongue and lace area. Other clothing, packs, and field equipment should also be inspected and all seeds, mud, etc. removed
- At the end of each work week, field clothing should be washed and inspected. Field packs and equipment should be checked over for seeds, other plant material, etc. All plant material should be removed and disposed of.
- Vehicles should be cleaned at the end of every field week and when changing field sites. The inside of the vehicles should be vacuumed and the bed of pickups swept out. Also pay specific attention to door jams, dashboards, seats, and floor mats. Tires, specifically treads, and the undercarriage of the vehicle should be cleaned of all mud and plant material.
- Please take all plant material and other trash with you when you leave. Do not bury trash in the field. Organic trash (banana skins, apple cores, fruit and vegetable seeds and pits, etc.) should also be brought from the field.
NSF (National Science Foundation) researchers Susan Cordell and Darren Sandquist study a range of issues impacting the forest at Ka`üpülehu. Here they study moisture content of leaves in the field. A major focus of their research is the role of fountain grass in forest ecology. July 2003. 
Bringing energy into the forest with Kona songs and dance. Ho`oluana Keauhou students after their hard work building trails and pulling weeds. Teachers Malani and Ululani guide the students. July 2003.
Big Island keiki building trails for access and fire management. Kamehameha Schools Ho`olauna Keauhou stewardship program. July 8, 2003. 
Honoka`a Woods students Nic and Maddie, measure endangered kokio for out planting data records. February 2002.
All photos © Yvonne Yarber Carter