HI SCR102

Requests the Department of Land and Natural Resources and Department of Education to establish a formal, long-term collaborative program to expand and sustain tree-canopy coverage across Hawaii's public schools statewide.

Only 21% of elementary schools currently meet the recommended 30% tree-canopy coverage needed for adequate shade and cooling, with Title I and lower-income schools experiencing less coverage and higher heat exposure.

Builds on existing successful pilot programs, including the Shade Trees for Schools initiative (2025 Memorandum of Agreement) and Fruit Trees for Schools pilot program (2024) through the Kaulunani Urban and Community Forestry Program.

Requests the program incorporate long-term maintenance planning and appropriate species selection to ensure climate, health, and educational benefits for students, with 29 agricultural or natural-resource programs on campuses available for hands-on learning.

Supports creating staff positions to implement and sustain the collaborative program.