Lyon’s Dilemma is a two-day, role-playing debate activity that immerses students in a historical environmental crisis facing Honolulu in the early 20th century. Using archival context and primary source excerpts, students examine real-world conservation decisions surrounding water scarcity, forest degradation, and the introduction of non-native species.
Contact Lyon Arboretum for the link to access their digital bundle resources.
https://manoa.hawaii.edu/lyon/education/pk-12-education/amazing-adaptations-digital-resources-bundle/
Background Reading Sheet
Role Playing Cards (e.g., farmer, conservationist, rancher, council member)
Introductory Video (Dr. Lyon and the history of Manoa Arboretum)
Discussion Prompts and Assessment Reflection Questions
Explore the relationship between environmental degradation and water security in Hawai‘i
Understand the historical role of Harold L. Lyon and the Hawaii Sugar Planters Association (HSPA)
Practice critical thinking and civic reasoning by debating conservation strategies
Reflect on how past decisions influence present-day conservation challenges
