Comm 25-022 re Sugg. 25-07 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Comm.25-022 • University of Hawaii is committed to transferring ownership of its land parcels to the County and funding the implementation of the Burial Treatment Plan. • Polynesian Voyaging Society, under the leadership of Nainoa Thompson, has expressed interest in co-developing a navigation school centered around Kuku'i Heiau, a historically significant navigational and astronomical site. Government Agencies • Dept. of Land & Natural Resources is committed to transferring State-owned parcels to the County to enable coordinated and permanent stewardship. • State and National Trail Systems E Mau Na Ala Hele and Ala Kahakai will be engaged to help map and develop a trail system through Kumukahi. Grassroots Groups • Ohana o Kumukahi, a core group of 15-20 very engaged individuals from the surrounding area, have convened regularly over the years and are fully committed to supporting stewardship, community mobilization, and activation of support networks. I am curious as to know what"the art of poison" means as part of the cultural practices. In this context, "the art of poison" refers to trarefers to traditional Hawaiian knowledge and practices involving the use of native plants and natural substances for various cultural, scientific, and practical purposes. It does not refer to harmful or malicious use, but rather to a specialized body of We (knowledge) used in responsible, intentional, and often ceremonial ways. This art is no longer practiced and we referenced is solely for information on the historical significance of cultural practices in the area. At Kumukahi, this practice was associated with the Kuki'i Heiau, a sacred site connected to navigation, astronomy, and this deeper plant-based knowledge system. Here's how "the art of poison" was understood and applied: • Stunning birds or fish: Certain native plants were used to temporarily sedate birds (for feather collection without harm) or fish (to make them easier to catch to study for example the eggs). This was done respectfully and sustainably. • Feather gathering for capes ('ahu 'ula): Brightly colored feathers were used in the creation of regal capes and helmets worn by ali'i (chiefs). Knowledge of plant-based compounds helped practitioners gently subdue birds so feathers could be collected without killing them. • Anesthetic use: Extracts from native plants were used as mild anesthetics for teething children, tooth aches minor surgeries, or relief of pain, reflecting the sophisticated understanding of medicinal plants. Awa is a compound of novocaine. • Scientific and cultural research: Some compounds from these plants were valuable for early biological studies or spiritual rituals, especially those linked to healing and transformation. 5