Strengthening Local Response Through Seven Community Chainsaw Teams

Across Hawaiʻi Island and Koʻolau, residents strengthened local disaster readiness through the development of seven community-based chainsaw teams. Certification courses held throughout the year built a coordinated network of 56 chainsaw felling and safety trained members, prepared to respond when storms, high winds, or fallen trees block access to homes, roads, and essential services.

Led by Justin Barrios of Backyard Monkey, participants gained practical instruction in chainsaw safety, felling techniques, equipment maintenance, and hazard assessment. This training addresses a critical need in many rural areas, where downed trees are often among the first challenges following severe weather and can significantly delay response and recovery if not addressed safely.

Active teams now include VERT, Hui Aloha Kīholo, Kohala Resilience Hub, Pāhoa Resilience Hub, Nāʻālehu Hub, Puna Mākaukau Fern Acres, and the Koʻolauloa Hub on Oʻahu. Together, these teams form a growing network that strengthens local response capacity while enabling cross-community support when additional assistance is needed.

Reflecting on the importance of this work, Claudia Ziroli of the Puna Mākaukau Fern Acres Hub shared, “In rural areas, such as Puna, downed trees are a large part of damage assessment and response following an event. I am so pleased and excited to have our first cohort of trained, certified chainsaw team members to assist our community with safe tree removal.”

Beyond technical skills, the trainings reinforced shared responsibility and preparedness. Each team represents residents stepping into roles that reduce hazards, restore access, and support neighbors during critical moments.

As these teams continue to strengthen coordination and experience, Hawaiʻi Island and Koʻolau are better equipped to respond quickly and safely when future events occur—demonstrating how practical training translates into real-world readiness.