FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What do I do if I find a PEPP species on my property?
Please contact us.  We'll be excited to hear about what you have found.  Most importantly, please do not attempt any collection of plant material - PEPP staff is permitted and trained to collect plant material, thus protecting the health of the individual plant and the propagule's integrity.  Instead, we would greatly appreciate any photos and a location of the plant.

Can I collect seeds or other material from PEPP species?
You cannot collect seeds from PEPP species unless you have a Federal and State permit explicitly allowing such activities.  Un-permitted collection of plant material from PEPP species (and any other threatened or endangered species) is strictly prohibited.  Additionally, PEPP, in partnership with rare plant facilities across the state, maintain a detailed database of collected propagules and there is the possibility that collections from a particular PEPP species are not needed at the time.  So, it would be best to leave the plant alone to allow for natural recruitment until collections are deemed necessary.  Still, if you do know of a PEPP species that is fruiting or seeding, please contact us because we could potentially need to make a collection.  If you want to participate in the collection of plant material, volunteering with PEPP is welcomed.

Where else can I find out more about PEPP work?
Contact us and we'll be happy to share!

What do I do if I find a PEPP species while I am out hiking?
Again, please contact us and provide us with its location, and if possible, photos.

What if I want to use a rare plant for cultural purpose?
Any collection of a rare plant, no matter the purpose, requires a permit.  PEPP is not a permitting agency.  Similar to the general public and research institutions, PEPP must apply for permits from the State of Hawaii and the US Fish and Wildlife Service to collect and work with Hawaii's rare plants.  Please contact the State of Hawaii Division of Forestry and Wildlife regarding collecting rare plants.

What if I want to conduct scientific research on a rare plant?
 Whether for cultural or scientific purposes, permits must be obtained to collect rare plants.

How many PEPP species are there?
 As of January 2021, there are 257 PEPP species.

Can I have a list of PEPP species?
 YES!  Follow this link.