Understoryʻs take on Forest Gardens, which we are calling 'Māla Lāʻau,' are unique agroecosystems. They're more than just a sustainable way to produce food, fiber, and other resources. They are living proof that humans can exist in harmony with nature, fostering ecological balance and self-sustainability.

A mix of native and cultivated plant species. Trees, shrubs, herbs, and sometimes vines are carefully chosen to recreate the structure of natural forests. Wild and cultivated plants coexist here, preserving native forest characteristics and ecological processes.

Māla Lāʻau aren't static creations. They're dynamic, responding to changing human needs and socioeconomic conditions. Through generations of careful management and community creativity, these gardens have evolved into vibrant ecosystems that support a wealth of plant species and functional traits.

Our specialized team is passionate about creating and restoring landscapes that are not only ecologically sustainable but also culturally significant. By working closely with communities, Indigenous groups, and landowners, we design landscapes that preserve biodiversity, protect cultural heritage, and promote sustainable land use practices. Our approach combines traditional ecological knowledge, scientific expertise, and community engagement to develop ecologically resilient and culturally meaningful landscapes.

Understory Alliance's Internship Programs are more than just an opportunity; they are a transformative journey designed to empower students wherever they are in their academic journey. We provide a unique, immersive experience tailored to help develop invaluable real-world skills.

Within our program, interns receive individualized mentorship and guidance, ensuring your success in your chosen field. We are dedicated to delivering meaningful experiences that positively impact the environment and the community. Interns actively contribute to projects and initiatives that create a lasting and meaningful difference.

Our Internship Programs are more than just a stepping stone; they catalyze personal growth and success.

Whether the focus is experiential, research-oriented, or a combination of both, all our internship programs substantially contribute to the diverse projects within Understory's ongoing mission. Interns will also be involved in research and have the opportunity to assist with educational and community groups. Our Internship Programs are a prime example of the mutual benefits of a place-based service learning model, serving both the community and our interns alike.

Understory Alliance offers enriching educational opportunities for K-12 classes, cultivating a profound connection between students and the environment through our Education Program. Our program is deeply rooted in the principle of reciprocity between students and the specific natural settings they engage with.

In our Education Program, K-12 students embark on a holistic learning journey, actively participating in various facets of conservation and ecosystem stewardship. Students may take on roles as planners, mappers, monitors, invasive species removers, and caretakers of mesic forests and riparian areas. This hands-on experience may be a one-time excursion to many repeated visits from the initial concept to the final project completion.

Our approach to education is grounded in the traditional ahupuaʻa model, which integrates the land and its communities. Students gain practical knowledge and hands-on experiences in biocultural conservation, botany, ecology, and Hawaiian cultural practices through this unique learning framework. This approach imparts valuable skills and forges a strong and lasting connection between the students and their environment, empowering them to take ownership and responsibility for their unique home and planet. It's a transformative educational experience that instills a profound sense of kuleana, fostering an enduring commitment to environmental stewardship.

Understory Alliance is passionate about fostering a deeper connection between individuals and the natural world. Our workshops are immersive, hands-on learning experiences that educate and inspire lasting change, ensuring you become our planet's steward. These workshops cover diverse topics, comprehensively understanding the intricate relationship between people and the environment.

Our workshops span a broad spectrum of subjects, ensuring there's something for everyone. From biocultural conservation practices that honor traditional ecological knowledge to delving into the world of native and canoe plants, we offer a rich tapestry of topics. Whether you're interested in plant propagation or the profound wisdom of indigenous practices, our workshops are designed to meet your interests.

Our workshops are characterized by hands-on, practical activities that give you a tangible connection to the environment. You'll find yourself building compost systems that breathe new life into the soil, creating wildlife habitats that support local biodiversity, or engaging with communities to learn from their time-tested wisdom.

Understory Alliance's workshops are more than educational events; they are transformative experiences that ignite your passion for conservation, community, and the planet. Join us in these hands-on, holistic workshops and become an empowered steward of our natural world.

Stay Tuned for upcoming workshops, or feel free to reach out to request a workshop tailored to your group's needs and interests. Understory Alliance is your partner in this journey of exploration and discovery, and we look forward to learning and growing with you.

Understory Alliance is excited to introduce a new and innovative program to our growing portfolio of initiatives: Voluntourism. This future program is designed to offer a unique blend of volunteer work and pono tourism, providing participants with an extraordinary opportunity to connect with nature, culture, and community.

Voluntourism with Understory will enable individuals to embark on memorable journeys while actively contributing to our conservation and environmental projects. Participants will have the chance to engage in hands-on conservation efforts, learn about local ecosystems, and immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of our work areas. It's a holistic experience that positively impacts the environment and communities and enriches the lives of those who join.

Stay tuned for more details on our Voluntourism program, as we look forward to launching this exciting addition to our mission of fostering a harmonious relationship between people and place.