"The fence they said couldn’t be built"

The University of Hawaii has commissioned this project as part of an effort to protect endangered plant species from feral animals. This involves constructing about 6700 feet of fencing along the Ohikilolo Ridge of the Waianae Mountains on the Island of Oahu. The remote terrain, accessible only by a strenuous 4-5 hour hike or by helicopter, covers steep rock faces, loose and eroded areas and knife edge ridges, beginning at 2600 feet and rising to about 3000 feet. The conditions are isolated, hazardous and often wet.

This challenging environment resulted in a decision to use 16 foot by 52 inch galvanized steel panels linked together by our crew using traditional rock climbing equipment for safety and access to the ridge. All personnel and equipment were transported by Hughes helicopter to the area.

The photos below provide an idea of the austere yet beautiful environment in which our crew has been working.