NOWRAMP Expedition Initial Results RECOVERY IS POSSIBLE, LAYSAN ISLAND IS PRIME EXAMPLE: Despite the challenges in terrestrial environments in the NWHI, which have been more disturbed by human presence that the marine enviroments to date, there is hope for recovery and restoration. After 77 years since Laysan Island was almost completely denuded of vegetation, the island is well on its way to recovery. After 10 years of focused weed control efforts and native out-planting, the island is rebounding back to a more native environment. With the return of native plants, biologists have noted an increase in seabird and land bird populations.