Join us for these two exciting events where experts in conservation take you from the gallery to the watershed. Each conservation expert will take you on a walk through the gallery and share current conservation topics and characteristics about the species featured in the art pieces on display.
October 20th, 4-5pm
Zack Pezzillo – Technician for Maui Nui Plant Extinction Prevention Program
Zach Pezzillo considers himself incredibly fortunate to have grown up on the island of Maui. His interest and enthusiasm for native plants and invertebrates began at a young age and he could often be found exploring the remote corners of the island in search of new subjects to identify. After graduating Zach began pursuing a career in endangered species conservation here on Maui and became a KUPU intern with the Maui Forest Bird Recovery Project. In 2017 Zach left to spend two winter seasons working and living on extremely remote Kure Atoll, in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, conducting habitat and wildlife recovery work. After returning from Kure in 2019, he was hired on full time with the Maui Forest Bird Recovery Project and worked on recovery efforts for the Maui Parrotbill until joining the PEPP crew in 2021. Zach is also a well regarded, award winning photographer and often uses his skills to promote awareness and appreciation of some of Maui’s most endangered native species.
November 3rd, 4-5pm
Pat Bily – Retired Biologist from The Nature Conservancy, Maui Program
Pat Bily has worked with plants on Maui since the mid 1970’s: in agriculture, ornamental landscape, and natural areas In nearly 3 decades with The Nature Conservancy, he helped implement watershed and invasive species partnership projects, while working to make TNC Waikamoi Preserve pig-free with expertise focused on nurturing native plants and punishing invasive plants. Now retired and raising native food, plants, and succulents, one of his most cherished hobbies is turning his Kula property into a native arboretum.