Koa is one of the most valued of tropical woods. A particular type of koa tree, called Acacia koa, is found in the Hawaiian Islands. The wood from this tree is used to create furniture, cabinets, carved bowls, canoes, surfboards, body boards, ukuleles, and guitars. Unfortunately, the future demand for koa wood will not be met unless better ways are found to grow koa crop trees today. After the article, read a short essay about canoeing and surfing in ancient Hawai’i. You can also read the cultur Topics: Active Forest Management, Engineering and Forest Products, Competition, Girdling, Koa Trees, Lumber, Phosphorus, Silviculture.