Aloha,

My name is Iban Garvin, I am a local from upcountry Maui and founder and owner of Kīpuka Land Stewardship. I grew up as a farmer from Makawao and my journey into conservation began when I was 17 years old. Over the years, I've had the privilege of contributing to numerous significant projects across Maui, spanning from Hana to Lahaina and encompassing various watersheds, mesic, and dry-land forests all dedicated to the preservation of our island's native ecosystems and and natural resources. 

I come from humble beginnings. If it wasn't for an amazing community of family, friends and the Island I call home I wouldn't be where I am today. I am proud to say I'm from Maui, and I'm incredibly grateful to belong to this community. Founding Kīpuka Land Stewardship is my way of forging stronger connections with fellow locals, tackling issues close to my heart, and leveraging the expertise I've cultivated over the years to give back to our island home.

On an island where resources are finite, the urgency for robust land management and conservation efforts cannot be overstated. It's imperative for us to safeguard our natural riches and sustain our quality of life by prioritizing āina as a foremost responsibility. With Kīpuka Land Stewardship, my mission is precisely aligned with this imperative. Through our comprehensive services, I aim to address pressing issues such as the risk of wildfires by eradicating invasive species and reinstating native flora. By nurturing and restoring native ecosystems, we ensure the continued provision of vital resources like clean water, pristine oceans, fertile soils, and fresh air. These efforts not only preserve our environment but also pave the way for local agriculture, promoting the cultivation of healthy, sustainable food for our community

As a farmer and a conservationist I truly believe in the potential for a self-sufficient Maui. I firmly advocate that when managed thoughtfully, agriculture and native ecosystems can not only coexist harmoniously but also mutually benefit one another. I envision a future similar to the stories that were passed down to me as a child, where locally grown food is abundant, and where our landscapes are rich with biodiversity. It's a vision I'm proud to work towards every day.