PD Background Report Kamehameha Schools (PL-SPP-2023-037)

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survey found twelve species of birds present, and none were native to Hawaii, and the permit area was determined to be unsuitable site for most native birds. Though the Hawaiian hoary bat was not surveyed, they should be considered as at least using the area near and around the permit area as they have been observed in the area previously. The only mammal observed was the Indian mongoose and there were signs that feral pigs are in the area, and it is likely that feral cats, mice, rats, and domestic dogs, are sometimes present as well. The survey concluded that due to the developed nature of the site and its proximity to Mamalahoa Highway, the presence of RTE species is unlikely. 20. Archaeological Resources: ASM Affiliates prepared an archaeological field inspection (AFI) for the permit area(included as Exhibit I of the application). The AFI found that the area is located at the southern end of the of a vast cultural landscape that has been termed archaeologically as "the Kona Field System", a 140- square mile landscape of dry-land agricultural fields developed by native Hawaiians who lived in the Kona district. The permit area is within the `apa`a zone, approximately 1,099 feet to 1,131 feet above sea level, conducive for growing taro, sweet potato, sugar cane, and ti. However, previous ground disturbance and development in the permit area has removed any trace of this agricultural system. The only potential historic artifact found on site is a 50-meter portion of a rock wall that was constructed in the early to mid-20th century. The rock wall remnant will remain intact within the permit area and will not be affected by the proposed project. Consequently, the AFI found that since most of the Area has been previously disturbed and developed, there are "no historic properties affected. " However, if plans for the early learning center require further ground disturbance, an archaeological assessment will be completed prior to any development. The Special Permit application along with the AFI was submitted to the State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD), but neither the applicant nor the Planning Department received a response at the time of this writing. 21. Valued Cultural Resources: According to the applicant, there are no known traditional and customary Hawaiian rights exercised on the property. 22. Public Access: There is no known public access to the mountains or the shoreline that runs through the property. 5