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PUNA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN September 2008 Chapter INTRODUCTION 1.1 THE SETTING Puna's natural environment is dominated by volcanic activity, unique geological events and formations, and a variety of plant communities that provide habitat for native species. Eruptions of Kilauea and the nearby volcano Mauna Loa continue to shape the ecology of the region, and even the land itself. Rainfall is higher on the windward slopes of Kilauea, while the leeward slopes, extending into Ka`u, aze relatively azid. The wetter side is covered by thick forests of `Ohi'a trees and Hapu'u tree ferns on all but the youngest of lava flows or cleared land. On the drier side, vegetation is more open, exposing the underlying geology. A distinguishing feature of Puna's native forest is its interaction with repeated; relatively recent lava flows, creating vazied ages of forests underlain by different compositions of lava flows, ash and explosion deposits. This, in turn, enriches biodiversity, especially in older stands of forest, known as "kipuka", that have been isolated by younger lava flows. Some of the native animal and plant species present in Puna aze endemic to Hawaii, found nowhere else in the world. In addition, Puna hazbors many other native species, such as the Pueo (Hawaiian Owl), the `Amakihi, the `Apapane, and various insects, some of which are rare. Puna's unique lava tube caves aze a notable geological feature and populaz attraction. Kazumura Cave is recognized as the world's longest lava cave at neazly 40 miles. The lava caves are also important as natural habitats for endemic cave-adapted species of insects and invertebrates. In addition, some of caves were used by ancient Hawaiians as burial sites for Ali`i (royalty) and others. Puna's geology and biological resources inspired reverence for the landscape by the original human inhabitants of Hawaii. By cultural tradition, Kilauea is the home of the goddess Pele, giving the volcano and its surroundings sacred status. Ancient Hawaiians recognized Puna as Pele's land, with human habitation subject to Pele's will. Maka`aina, or commoners, were free to relocate to other ahupua`a (the lands of another chief) when Pele reasserted her dominion over the land. A map dated 1826 indicates 24 ahupua`a located around the enfue coast of Puna. t While human settlement from ancient times was concentrated in a 1- to 3-mile band neaz the shoreline, mauka areas near the volcano and upper reaches of forest were visited for gathering as well as spiritual purposes. ~ Community Management Associates for the County of Hawaii ,Puna Community Development Plun Technical Report, 1995. 1-1