HI SR96

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

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 having less coverage and higher heat exposure.

Builds on existing partnerships including the 2025 Shade Trees for Schools initiative and 2024 Fruit Trees for Schools pilot program through the Kaulunani Urban and Community Forestry Program.

The program should incorporate long-term tree maintenance planning and species/location selection to ensure lasting climate, health, and educational benefits for students across 29 agricultural or natural-resource programs on DOE campuses.

Supports creating dedicated staff positions to implement and sustain the collaborative tree-canopy program.