2024-03-04 Letter Center for Biological Diversity Maxx Phillips (PL-CCH-2024-023) Ack Petition

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Dedman's traditional practice of gathering limu continues to this day and will be impacted by the increased development proposed by the project. Limu, integral to the cultural heritage and ecological balance of native Hawaiians, holds profound significance as a traditional food source, a vital component of coastal ecosystems, and a repository of unparalleled native biodiversity. Wai, or freshwater, is intricately linked to limu, forming a symbiotic relationship between these invaluable cultural and ecological resources. Without freshwater limu cannot flourish. Limu, often thriving in brackish conditions near groundwater discharge from subterranean springs, benefit from the additional nutrients and reduced salinity provided by freshwater. The diminution of freshwater due to the proposed development at Punalu'u poses a direct threat to limu. If the current proposed development is built as planned, the number of cars and visitors coming into Punalu'u will increase dramatically. Ms. Dedman's notes that the parking lot is already crowded on any given weekday and that there are times that she cannot drive into her own property because visitor's cars are blocking the road. With the proposed increased development, Ms. Dedman and the people of Ka'u and Punalu'u, will likely not be able to access the ocean and resources. It is already difficult for Ms. Dedman to perform her cultural practices and gather traditional resources "with thousands of people stopping and staring at us." The ocean at Punalu'u is utilized daily by Ms. Dedman's 'ohana and the people of Ka'u for subsistence gathering and cultural purposes. Ms. Dedman's 'ohana and local families of the area depend on the resources of the ocean at Punalu'u for sustenance. New generations are taught 4 CENTER FOR BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY'S PETITION FOR STANDING IN A CONTESTED CASE HEARING Appendix B