The draft Environmental Assessment for release of `alala to several sites on the Island of Hawai`i describes each prospective release site in some detail. As outlined below, each site poses its own unique set of challenges:

Pu`uwa`awa`a. The Pu`uwa`awa`a sanctuary has "few structural impediments" to management of threats to `alala. Predator trapping has previously been conducted and rehabilitation of native vegetation is a management priority," the draft EA states. However, as with the `io, there are some intractable difficulties, especially with control of banana poka. This vine presents a threat to native forests, which it smothers with its dense foliage. However, the juicy banana poka fruit (closely related to passion fruit) is potentially an excellent source of food for the released `alala, especially in light of the absence of native plants that the `alala may have once used for food. "Control of this vine is a priority for management within the sanctuary," the draft EA states, "creating a potential conflict between weed management and `alala recovery needs if the sanctuary were to be a release site."