On August 13, esteemed arborist Steve Nimz visited Lahaina’s Banyan Tree for an initial assessment and development of an action plan. From the report:
While this report addresses the health of the Lahaina Banyan tree and provides a mitigation plan for preserving this tree, I want to acknowledge that many lives were lost and even more were significantly affected by this fire. The tree’s health is secondary to the health and well-being of the survivors.
Site Inspection & Results:
With the help of concerned citizens and local companies, I was able to conduct an inspection of the historic tree on August 13, 2023. The owner of Prometheus Construction organized the assessment, with facilitation by the Governor’s Office, the Maui County Mayor’s Office, the Lahaina Restoration Foundation and Goodfellow Bros. Kumu Kapono Kamaunu, who attended the elementary school next to the tree, conducted a blessing of the site and the tree before we proceeded with the assessment. Prometheus provided an aerial lift to inspect the tree’s crown, and erected a tree protection zone with fencing and signage. Goodfellow Bros. supplied the water trucks for the tree.