Protocol of respect is a social protocol reflecting the spirit that impacts our thought and intent. It is the protocol that determines how we focus on this unique and threatened microcosm that remains. Often, those who feel they are of these lands need to give proper cultural respect by acknowledging they are entering another domain as a guest, and asking permission. Because the volunteer efforts here are sometimes multi-cultural and multi-ethnic, we have instituted a simple inclusive protocol that honors the Hawaiian lineage of these lands while respecting the broad range of beliefs that may be represented by others. It is called ho`omalie, where we simply come together before entering the gate for a moment in silence. It is a time when we quiet our selves and focus on the work ahead. A time to leave our individual rubbish and worries outside so we can be open to whatever the forest has to offer. And to remember we are here to offer ourselves in the most positive spirit of respect for one another. When we are lucky enough to have the presence someone like Hannah Springer who is a descendant of these lands, or a group to oli, these are given after ho`omalie.
Ka`üpülehu staff, summer interns & volunteer leaders after a day of work in the forest during the Ho`oluana Keauhou program. July 1, 2003. Front L-R: Keoki Carter, Yvonne Yarber Carter, Kekoa , Don Goo. Back: David Bishaw, Kainoa Goo, Brian Kiyabu, Chris Makoa Brackbill.
Out planting and lunchbreak Working Group meeting at Ka`üpülehu. Andrea Gill of HFIA facilitates. January 2002.
Dryland Forest Working Group
meeting January 2002
Foresters Don Goo, Alan Urakami and Forest Technician Brian Kiyabu talk to high school students about forest conservation work, 2002.
Seedlings ready for Ka`üpülehu out planting. September 2003. 
Sept 23, 2003 out planting. Brian (center) gives instructions to volunteers from the Hilo “Forest Team” program at Hilo Community College, Konawaena High School, Puuwaawaa staff, and Amy Greenwell Botantical Garden.
Working Group collaboration in action. Mälama discussions during out planting in eradicated fountain grass area. L-R: Lyman Perry, botanist; Hannah Springer, cultural practitioner and civic leader; Susan Cordell, Forest Service research ecologist. April 2002.
Forest Technician Brian Kiyabu at work under the lama trees.
All photos © Yvonne Yarber Carter