PD Recommendation Report (PL-SMA-2021-000007)

Home

In a letter dated November 8,2021,the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) Historic Preservation Division concurred with the findings of the AIS report that "no historic properties affected for the current project" and that the "permit issuance process may proceed'. The cultural impact assessment (CIA) found of the identified traditional and customary practices located on the parcel, many of the consulted parties expressed explicit concern over the potential impact the proposed development could have on coastal access and gathering of near-shore and pelagic marine species. As expressed by the consulted parties, accessing the cliffs to gather marine resources from the eastern point in the project area has been taking place for at least the past five (5) generations, and that this practice has always been a fundamental part of their lifestyle. To mitigate any potential adverse impact to this above identified traditional and customary practice, the CIA recommends that an access easement be created that extends from the old cane haul road (currently designated by the County of Hawaii as an easement) to the eastern point in the project area. An access easement will help ensure that the above-identified practices are maintained for current and future generations. No floral or faunal species listed as threatened, endangered, or proposed for listing under the federal or state endangered species statutes were identified on the site. Additionally, no species used for cultural gathering purposes were identified within the project area. Possible adverse effects or impairment of valued resources: Native vegetation may be destroyed by ground alteration,however,there is no evidence that the flora in the project area is particularly desired or used for cultural practices. Archaeological remains could inadvertently be uncovered during construction activities, however, according to the AIS, the two(2)sites noted on this parcel have been adequately documented and no further work is required. Lastly, access to the shoreline fishing area known as "ladders"will not be affected by this project. The applicant intends to keep the coastal access corridor in private ownership and does not intend to dedicate the coastal access corridor to the County. To facilitate safe access for shoreline fishermen, the applicant has reached a general -i0-