Nature lovers Lois and Dick Robbins have made their annual contribution to The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in Hawai‘i to help safeguard the state’s native forests.
Over the last 19 years, the couple has pledged more than $545,000 through the Max and Yetta Karasik Family Foundation to TNC’s Hawai‘i Island Program, according to a news release. The TNC is a nonprofit organization with a mission of conserving lands and waters that life depends on. Lois Robbins, a Honolulu native, noted in the news release that her experiences growing up surrounded by Hawai‘i’s native forests have motivated her to safeguard the remaining forests.
“Their natural beauty and importance cannot be overstated,” she said in the release. “They are home to a treasured biodiversity and provide benefits to people such as fresh water and clean air.”
Dick Robbins also appreciated nature as a youth, according to the press release, and the couple is now retired and living in Hāmākua. The couple is focused on protecting and preserving the diversity of Hawai‘i’s nature and wildlife, according to the news release, and they have been inspired by efforts statewide, including the Kona Hema Preserve, which is home to ancient koa-`ōhi`a forest and rare species. The release also noted that the TNC’s protection has helped it rebound in recent years, including last year, when the endangered Cyanea marksii flowered.
“TNC boldly addresses challenges to create a world where people and nature can thrive,” Dick Robbins added in the press release. “We encourage others to consider supporting TNC. Together, we can help shape a brighter future for our planet.”
Moreover, the couple supports the TNC because its experience, knowledge and expertise to ensure the survival of key natural systems, according to the release.
