News Release
NPS Photo by Chris Petruccelli
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Contact: Jin Prugsawan
Contact: Chris Petruccelli
Kula, Maui — Justine, Lōkahi, and Ricki, three mules employed at Haleakalā National Park, have achieved a combined 30 years of distinguished employment in the National Park Service and are eyeing their retirement. Their human co-worker, Anne-Marie, is off to new adventures as well at Pearl Harbor National Memorial. Anne-Marie and these mighty mules help preserve and protect more than 30 miles of trails and numerous facilities throughout Haleakalā National Park.
“During her five years at Haleakalā, Anne-Marie has made outstanding contributions to our trails program and especially to our mule packing program. Her abilities and insights help make our program more efficient, safer, and more mule-friendly,” said Maintenance Supervisor Matt Padgett.
Horses and mules have long played a critical role in the preservation of our public lands. In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps used mules to safely transport lumber, tools, and other supplies into Haleakalā Crater. Today, campgrounds, trails, backcountry cabins, and other facilities require maintenance and repair. Employees like Anne-Marie pack and load the mules and care for them during their treks into the wilderness.
Due to its Congressional designation as wilderness, established roads and motorized vehicles are not legally permitted in Haleakalā Crater. A wilderness designation is given to areas with remarkable natural qualities that are relatively free from the effects of modern civilization and provide opportunities for solitude and quiet. Haleakalā National Park currently has a team of nine charismatic mules, each of them defined by their own personality. A new park webpage introduces these industrious workers and allows you to virtually Meet the Mules.
Join us in saying mahalo nui loa (thank you very much) and a hui hou (see you again) to Justine, Lōkahi, Ricki, and of course Anne-Marie! To learn more about our team of mules visit: https://www.nps.gov/hale/learn/nature/mighty-mules-of-maui.htm
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Last updated: February 16, 2022