RES 095 Draft 01 2024-2026 - Laserfiche WebLink

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STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES Strengths • Preservation of a relatively accessible, pristine and massive stream system and estuary that are environmental assets to Hawaii Island and the state. • Protection and management of public access to the stream, estuary, and ocean, a rare opportunity in the Hilo-Hamakua region. • Continuation of multi -cultural traditions by conserving natural resources and the ability to access the ocean, estuary, and stream. e Opportunities and lessons to be learned from community management to ensure protection and perpetuation of the natural and cultural resources for future generations. The Makahanaloa Fishing Association is working collaboratively with groups and individuals in the local community to inform the public of the effort to acquire these properties, fundraise, and apply for cost -sharing grants and matching fund opportunities. • Potentials for historical, biological, and archaeological education and research to benefit Hawaii Island and the state. • Presence of mature tropical hardwoods that add to the value of the properties. Kawainui Stream's lower waterfall and estuary Weaknesses • Possibility that the land will be sold to a private interest, which could end the informal public access to the stream, estuary, and ocean that has been allowed by the current owners. • Long PONC acquisition process, which allows time for the property to potentially be sold to a private purchaser. • If not publicly purchased, the critically valuable estuary, stream, and near -shore aquatic resources could suffer from diminished water quality, should land alteration activities occur on the upper plateaus. Report by Ms. Deborah Chang, Commissioner Photos courtesy of Phaethon Keeney August 23, 2024 4