Each year the Environmental Dept engages 3rd Marines’ Combat Assault Company (CAC) to perform the annual site preparation for the endangered Hawaiian Stilt breeding season (Mar-Sep). The CAC’s Amphibious Assault Vehicles (AAVs) are used to break-up the non-native invasive pickleweed or akulikuki kai (Batis maritimas) covering the mud flats used for nesting. This annual 3-day operation known as “Mud Ops” has been a yearly event since 1982, and is usually conducted mid-February. Besides supporting the Environmental Dept’s management objectives for the Nu’upia Ponds, the Marines operating the AAVs are provided a unique and valuable training opportunity.
