HAWAIʻI WILDLIFE ECOLOGY LAB




DECISION ANALYSIS
Scope of work
Decision analysis is applied to guide conservation planning where ecological needs are high and resources are limited. Using structured decision-making tools such as Priority Threat Management, the lab works with experts and managers to identify key threats, evaluate potential actions and compare the expected costs, benefits and feasibility of different strategies. This ensures that limited funds are directed for maximum impact. The framework also supports broader natural resource decisions by integrating environmental conditions, patterns of human disruption and long-term sustainability goals. Through this approach, the lab provides a transparent, evidence-based process that strengthens effective and enduring conservation outcomes across Hawaiʻi’s diverse landscapes.
Project Highlights

Decision Analysis for Conservation of Sensitive Species
We worked with nearly 100 experts and managers to evaluate 374 species in Maui Nui, identify key threats, and assess the cost, feasibility and benefits of potential conservation actions. Results showed that without additional action, 15 of 17 species groups have less than a 30% chance of persisting over the next 20 years. Implementing the full set of recommended strategies is projected to raise persistence probabilities for all species to at least 40%, with 11 groups expected to exceed 60%. These findings highlight how decision analysis can pinpoint cost-efficient actions that significantly improve long-term biodiversity outcomes in Maui Nui.

Decision Analysis and Trail Assessment for Conservation of Public Trails
In partnership with DLNR, we are applying decision analysis to identify sustainable management strategies for Hawaiʻi’s heavily used public trail system. Trail use has grown rapidly with increasing resident and visitor numbers, while funding for natural resource management remains under 1% of the state budget, resulting in long-term declines in trail condition. The goal is to identify practical strategies that can improve trail health and user experience despite the tight funds, providing a clearer foundation for long-term planning across Hawaiʻi’s multi-use trails.
More details coming soon