Eco-minded folks can get updates on pressing environmental topics in the islands when the 2017 Hawai‘i Conservation Conference opens up to the public from 1 to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Hawai‘i Convention Center.

The free public sessions during the “Conservation Connections” afternoon will address such topics as rapid ohia death, the impacts of feral cats on Kauai’s endangered birds, and Hawaiian monk seal recovery, their interactions with near-shore fisheries and how social media can be a tool in conservation efforts.

Take in a Pacific eco-poetry performance or drop by a forum on the status of local watersheds. Gov. David Ige will be part of a panel discussing the state’s five commitments toward a more sustainable Hawaii.

The 24th annual conference, sponsored by the Hawaii Conservation Alliance, brings together scientists, policymakers, educators and community members from Hawaii and elsewhere in the Pacific to discuss conservation strategies and follow up on last year’s World Conservation Congress held in Honolulu.

This year’s theme, “He Wa‘a He Moku Malama Honua: Caring for Our Island Earth,” honors the return of the Hokule‘a from its worldwide voyage. Visit hawaiiconservation.org/conference or download the app HCC24 for a full schedule.