HomeMy WebLinkAboutSugg 26-02 redacted PUBLIC OPEN SPACE&NATURAL RESOURCE CONSERVATION NOMINATION -
KA'AWALI'I GULCH BEACH&ESTUARY
Attachment A: Provide a Tax Map Key Plat map and a property map with the
property boundaries and/or proposed access outlined or highlighted.
.36-2810 HAWAII BELT ROAD OOKALA, HI 96774 County
Council District i.Asking price includes:
3-3-6-5-15 (13.68 acres) Driveway, Main house,Pool,Valley
P 3-3-6-5-14-2 (13,852 sf) CPR Small triangle house+ parking
3-3-9-1-17(4,182 sf) strip of land(pumphouse oil pipe)
TMK Maps of interest 36001&36005
Real Property Tax Office Online Map Good quality pies link.
..
ti
s�.
:.t r.; sx.-a.. _�+ _{._ "'ter.+' .r'_ �; .r•,r
"; : - ..� "• 'yam.`. "d.�: rr. `�, ��,...
,:..'Y ..�'.._r fjj]', .f/.'� S,i 4'.,.✓._ ..'✓.'' SAC '~'.'L '+N •_�' - y�r-7
�•f � � •, 'IL s' 1 yy
Attachment B SUMMARY&BACKGROUND: The proposed purchase of Ka'awali'i stream
and beach at the makai foot of Humu`ula Ahupua`a would preserve and allow enhancement of
access to forests, streams, and shorelines for community recreation and education.These
opportunities include swimming, fishing, hiking, picnicking, surfing, and sustainable gathering
of resources, as well as potential access to rich agricultural land for planting,water resources
and `a—ma based education areas. Laupahoehoe Charter School's Nonprofit arm Hui Kako`o O
Laupahoehoe has expressed their desire to lead this stewardship,in partnership with
Laupahoehoe Train Museum (who steward the `0`6kala Community Forest on State lands
adjacent), and others invited to join as available. With Hui Kako`o O Laupahoehoe as leads to
steward this important ocean access, agricultural land, and stream,we can ensure conscientious
and pono community use of this important valley for future generations.
Sugg.26-02
rr,x-• � J 9 t a a
�;_..�" � � ":f- r, l_ i+l �,r,�� !}�1i s�fP �• ?� �i f►' �fy i� �,o J 11�g1�,
l
SS 'I •�0*tiri�' -� e� �� !il�1 �Ilp sl 9w r, .r _ :� f�1
"
r � a f YIIIgNI
-..�ii € � 1� � � � it �}��],a � � •��B � ���
, I .. ... ....,.�d, .. f
r y
p!
r.
bw
1 L• f
'Ra
-
Sugg.26-02 2
IMPORTANCE OF THE AREA&MAUKA MAKAI CORRIDOR
"In the region traditionally known as Hilo Paliku-Hilo of the upright cliffs (now
known as North Hilo),the lowland region in places like Waipunalei, Laupahoehoe
and Maulua, extending from the shore to around the 3,000 foot elevation,
supported residential and agricultural activities, spanning centuries of Hawaiian
residency. The upper forest regions ...were frequented by travelers, collectors of
natural resources, and for a wide range of cultural practices".... "A system of trails,
running mauka-makai (between mountains and shore), a near-shore trail (the ala
loa), and trails skirting the upper forest region were established as well. By the
time of westerners recording travel between the shore of Laupahoehoe and the
upper mountain lands,the Laupahoehoe-Waipunalei Trail had become the
primary route of travel, with other trails only known to native residents of the
land." (Hilo Paliku-Kepa Maly 2006, Page18)
Along with Laupahoehoe point, Ka`awali`i beach was a coastal
nexus of freshwater supply,lowland farming,fishing and ocean e.- ;
access for sustenance with the Waipunalei trail,the primary _
mauka-makai corridor that connected the coastal Ala Loa to
the forests and uplands of Humu`ula Ahupua`a, Kaohe and
Mauna Kea.As seen in this 1$59 map it was also a"shortcut"
"from Hilo/Laupahoehoe to Waimea and port of Kawaihae (see. x V u A •..
Ka`awali`i gulch is sited at the boundary of Waipunalei
Ahupua`a in this 1875 map,it's smaller land division of
Kahoahuna/Pa`ana not noted. The Waipunalei trail runs up q
the plateau, allowing fish, maia,kalo, sweet potatoes etc to go
upland to Mauna Kea, and adze,birds, and the famed koa of its Umm- -
slopes for canoes, etc to go down to the shore for village& Ffgure$ Rmdsaird Traflaafft Flawal'lftland Me nfalnlands
wider island needs. Humu'ula is named for a type of stone (red (Pacdfts Commerdal Aavertfser,Fewuary 17,1559)
jasper) used to make ko'i or adze.This thoroughfare and significant resources shaped island
history, as Kepa Maly details in several in-depth historical studies of the area cited throughout
this document.
"The Waipunalei-Laupahoehoe and`Umikoa trails also
.. . .•r �- converge in Ka`ohe Ahupua`a and run up to the summit
of Mauna Kea. It was via this trail that ceremonial
z - pilgrimages were made, that adze makers traveled to
the Keanakako`i quarries, and that travel to the upper
mountain lands was done to accomplish personal
`< family matters—such as the burial of loved ones and the
hiding of the piko (umbilical cords) of newborn
children. Elder kama`aina recall that through the early
` ! 1900s, Hawaiians traveled to selected areas of the Hilo
_ and Hamakua forests to search out trees adequate for
canoes to be used in fishing." (Hilo Paliku-Maly, Page
32)
"From the time of`Umi (ca. 1520), through the time of
Kamehameha I's battles (ca. 1780s-1790s), the rich koa
forests were frequented by canoe makers under chiefly
v::.;K H.U. and priestly direction, and great fleets of canoes were
made to supply the needs of the chiefs in their efforts to
build their kingdoms."
Fpun ir.neuexen dArper N.p ne.ew-lane d wayumrr p.mYenwx,i�
=.row�46L02 ,,..,, 3
Resource Value 1)Public outdoor recreation and
education, uicluduig ACCESS to beaches and — w.
inountains: Ka'awah i gulch is the first major gulch and beach '
along the coast traversing Highway 19 from Honoka'a to Hilo.
Ocean access along the pali are few,and publicly accessible
beaches are even fewer. The gulches are some of the few places
where segments of the Ala Loa and historic sites remain after
sugar clearing along this coast,yet access along the Ala Loa and
beach here at Ka'awali'i are privately owned and gated,as �` f
construction of the house in 1992-1995 was somehow allowed
over the historic Ala Loa trail as its siting was likely
p„.W63 -tee
forgotten.No Ala Loa or shoreline access of any kind
was included in the Conditions of building on this = . �
Conservation Land,for either the general public or
Native Hawaiians,but nevertheless, Ka'awali'i remains W-au M.P.23.0
actively used by hunters,fishermen and outdoor AA 0—
enthusiasts alike. Earlier Ka'awali'i PONC nomination
in 2015 was hindered by access issues,so we will go
into that further here.
Above you'll see the alignment of the Ala Loa prior to
the 1897 building of Old Mamalahoa as obtained from � •��^+E■ 0547- _
Jackson Sauer of Na Ala Hele DLNR Division of w�
Forestry&Wildlife Hilo Office(Reg1859.tif). Please MEW IMMgV9OlI5 N me
WNW of
see land grant 3688, Lot 1,Lat 2 and L&Z Waipunalei
Homestead on State Surveyors website(note road is
reserved)and TMK Maps(3)3600i&(3)36005 above
and high res downloadable via link. In the end photo
above note the alignment far makai of Highway ig on K
map(Hawaii State D.O.T. 2010 EA for Ka`awali`i
Improvements)which was made combining portions of
the Old(1897)Mamalahoa and Hilo Railway(1912).
Currently,most folks hike in about ihour each way by
1
parking at the rear of the valley,walking the aqueductfCL
below Highway ig and then scrambling along the
stream bed.What we and Jackson Bauer see as the Ala
Loa 1896&prior is deemed by the owners as a private
"1922 Sugar Road" as stated in their 1992 Conservation
District Use Permit application,we are searching for t
Land Grant 5528 Anehila Holokahi&an abstractor to
help clarify this issue.This road is now gated with
private access permission given to a few,with fishermen ._
we've spoken to turned away. Even if public access is
potentially contested and restored the 5 minute Ala I.o
walk to the valley floor is still isolated from the ocean as
hikers must cross the private property to reach the river 4` ►"
mouth/beach area.The road branches at the stream 017
'
with one one poorly maintained road on the South Hilo <_ 1
p ly 1 �
side that goes further back into the valley to what must :
have been the 1906 crossing area_
5ugg.26-02 4
"Original Belt Road—The 1898 annual report by the Hawai'i Minister of the
Interior details the completion of the road"...from Kiilau bridge through
Laupahoehoe to Ka'awali'i gulch, making one of the finest sections of road on the
Island." (Hilo Paliku-Maly, Page 8)Above we show a 195o Aerial Photograph by R.M.
Towill, Civil Engineer- Surveyor, Honolulu,T.H. via Pan Am flight image of the gulch showing
all 3 routes of the Ala Loa/Improved"1922 Sugar Road",the Old Mamalahoa (1897) and the
defunct Hilo/Consolidated Railway.
The makai branch crosses the river and is lost due to overgrowth but on
maps follows a short curve up the North West pali thru State lands and the
`O`okala Community Forest. On the bluff there is ample space where F
fishermen sometimes park to scramble down the North cliff, as that side of +
the Ala loa trail has had a much longer period since use/repair, (with some
rockslides from construction of Highway 19) and ends at the stream '
without legal beach access. Beyond to the North,the Ala Loa appears to
connect with the old Moonlight road/Lower Cane Haul road which �to nd;- _
transverses mostly public lands or Kamehameha Schools lands the next 24
miles of Hamakua coastline. This Lower Cane Haul road is beloved by the -community and and eyed as an alternate route to the busy Highway 19 for
recreation.
The new section of Highway 19 thru Ka'awali'i was built in 1957
04 after the 1946 tsunami damaged the trestle and bridges of the
Hilo Railroad Company(built in 1912 and later reorganized into
- Hawaii Consolidated Railway in 1916).The railway took a path
similar to that of the Old Mamalahoa (built to support the horse
drawn carts of the thriving sugar plantation businesses along the
coastline) following a less steep route along the back of the
valley manageable for locomotive engines. These paths combine
for the most part now into 1957 Highway 19 whereas the Ala Loa
" •. _ _ footpath curved down closer to the shoreline at a sharper incline
p" = manageable for pedestrians and horses.
RECREATION As 1922 Ala Loa improvements included paving with
macadam into a 8ft wide Sugar access road, hiking,biking, and
horseback riding could be relatively easy along the Ala Loa thru the
Gulch with some upkeep,we envision perhaps even a corridor along
this beautiful valley and onwards thru Hamakua.William Ellis wrote
his journal, published in 1827, about this route and Isabella Bird's
famous book`Six Months in the Sandwich Islands' recounts this .
adventure via horseback in 1873,with depictions of fording the
surrounding major gulches in the midst of a tropical storm that
inspired women around the world for over a century. While conditions
for this journey have improved at least on this parcel, it is still an
adventure many would be impressed by today,whatever the means of
transport.
Beach: Surfing-The house on the parcel was built by professional
bodyboarder and surfing world champion, Mike Stewart in 1995• In
touring the house with the realtor it was mentioned he loved to surf
Ka'awali'i and its beauty so much he made it his home break, a
sentiment shared,likely,by beloved Hawaiian King`Umi a Liloa
Sugg.26-02 5
(ca.1525),who was born and resided for much of his life in Humu`ula/Waipunalei/Laupahoehoe
area.
"Upon the death of Uloa, `Umi fled from Waipi`o,to live in secrecy near his birth
place. `Umi and his companions lived at Waipunalei and vicinity, in the district of
Hilo." Hilo Paliku-Maly, Page go
i
r
Page 32 goes on to detail that Umi first lived at an upland place called Laumai`a on the land of
Humu`ula (his mother was from this area), and while in the area`Umi and his friends all
married, and lived as commoners upon the lands,with their exploits in the area becoming the
stuff of legend. It is said that one of the pastimes that`Umi enjoyed most was surfing,the famed
surf fronting Laupahoehoe was one of his favorite spots for the sport,but undoubtedly that of
Ka'awali'i as well, as the break was closer and has excellent formation,though due to the lack of
trail access today is not frequented as much as of yore or just decades ago when Mike Stewart
rode its waves. As you may note by the Humu`ula land division made by`Umi, only Ka`awali`i
beach was included in this expansive and privileged Ahupua`a.
Swimming, Fishing, Diving, Canoe: Swimming is possible in
the seasonal stream pool which is light blue in color&sandy in • �;-.
several areas as well as along the pebble and boulder beach where it
meets the shore. Diving and fishing here is esteemed,with a
productive reef ecosystem fed by abundant freshwater. Even though
the surface stream is seasonal,the historic aquifer well &
pumphouse, cliffside lava tube formations, and vibrantly healthy
reef ecosystem here show that significant freshwater resources run
beneath the alluvial silt valley floor. See here a Fall 2025
Swarfishiniz video of divers on this reef with healthy reef ecosystem
and general stoke on great conditions. The rivermouth pool "
sometimes connects fully to the ocean, so canoe/kayak access is
possible seasonally or as maintained.
`Aina activities &Education: Possible uses of the valley floor itself beyond hiking,biking,
horseback riding include subsistence gathering, agriculture/agroforesty and native species and
historic sites remediation and education. According to the Stewart 1002 Conservation Use
Permit Application,until recently the large grassy valley floor to the northwest of the stream was
used to graze cattle at the shoreline. This is a substantial flat area with deep rich soil and some
rock wall formations, and was the likely site of historic habitation, agriculture and hale wa'a of a
Sugg.26-02 6
fishing village that provided upland peoples with ocean resources (See 2 History below). Our
hope is that this area could become a cultural stewardship site, and any rock wall remnants in
the valley could be tended/repaired with thought of their former function, kauhale complex or
hale wa'a,lo'i, etc for cultural gatherings, camping and education.
According to hula halau word of mouth,the valley boasts one of the largest Lauhala groves on
the island and could be used by hala weavers for gathering and education.Area abundance of
hala was noted in Botanist James Macrae 1825 observations (Hilo Paliku-Maly Pg 42)Area
`awa experts mention that Ka'awali'i gulch is the home of a prized small leaf`awa (as the name
would indicate),perhaps this cultivar could be restored and utilized traditionally. The steep
gulch provides a quiet forested corridor between the upland Laupahoehoe Forest Reserve and
ocean resources for birds, and there is a large cave at the seashore that is the home to many
seabirds.These are only a few small aspects of how Ka'awali'i gulch may function as the foot of a
broader mauka/makai corridor up thru the Laupahoehoe forest reserve and Mauna Kea/Mauna
Loa,bringing back these important connections thru place based education would be a lofty
goal.
2) Preservation of historic or culturally important land areas and sites:
"It appears that the six districts of the island of Hawaii and
the system of developing smaller manageable units of land
became formalized by the early 1600s, in the reign of
`Umi-a-Uloa. Mauna Kea Kuahiwi Maly 16
"It is also significant that the record of the vast regional land
divisions (ahupua`a) of Humu'ula (in Hilo)and Ka`ohe (in
Hamakua) included environmental zones and resources that
extended from shore to mountain summit, is also significant.
Indeed, the high mountain natural and cultural resources
added to the wealth and well-being of the ahupua`a residents.
Hawaiian customs and practices demonstrate the belief that
all portions of the land and environment are related,like
members of an extended family, each zone was named, and
their attributes were known.Acknowledging the relationship
of one environmental zone (wao)to another, is rooted in traditional land
management practices and values"..... "It is important for contemporary readers
to know that in the Hawaiian mind all aspects of the land—all natural and cultural
resources are interrelated, and that all are culturally significant. Thus, when
speaking of Mauna Kea, it's integrity and sense of place depends on the well-being
of the whole entity, not only a part of it." Mauna Kea Kuahiwi Maly 15
Located at the makai junction of Humu'ula Ahupua'a and Waipunalei (with it's smaller land
division of Kahoahuna/Pa`ana) at the foot of 2 of the six moku-a-loko (largest land divisions) of
Kaohe and Humulula,the beach and stream of Ka'awali'i gulch were no doubt of importance in
ancient times. From the beach we stand on the Humu'ula land division,being connected to both
Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, along with nearby Kaohe,the two divide Hilo and Hamakua moku
and comprise many of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa sacred sites. Humu'ula Ahupuaa Hawaii
Statewide GIS Portal) spans in one division all the way from summit to ocean (pre 1907, see
maps above from Maly Hilo Paliku 103 &iio),with a smaller subdivision at the shore `O`okala
which then is the boundary of Hilo and Hamakua moku. The beach of Ka'awali'i is therefore
connected via Humu'ula to Keanakolu (the 3 caves),Pu'u Holei, Kole (bird catching
shrine/forest zone shelter), Kanakaleonui (BuriaSite), Kaupo (Red Hill),Makanaka, and many
sacred sites on Mauna Kea. Early land boundary testimonies took Humu'ula to the summit to
Kamakahalau, "in the vicinity of the"Pond of Poliahu" (Lake Waiau) and"Kaluakakoi"the
Sugg.26-02 7
adze-quarries."Maly Page 102.Even if these near summit sites are not included from 1907 on,
beyond towards Mauna Loa the Humu`ula land division encompasses Pu`u Loa,O'o,Huluhulu,
the convergence of the Wailuku tributaries,Waipahoehoe,Pohakuloa(an ahu now called
Keahuokulakini)and up many of the pu`u of the East rift zone up to Pohakuhanalei(where`Umi
built a heiau)in the crater of Moku`aweoweo near summit of Mauna Loa(Maly Kuahiwi 31).
View online zoomable topo map of both mauna pu`u,ahupua`a and many of the vast resources
of this area referenced in the boundary surveys described in Mauna Kea Kuahiwi Maly et all
'i435V
* 4
JAI
4.� I `, ,w.. � ��yir•�vrlr�N R�^- ryRdlNlr•'N�
�.�. i 1, ' r. !. � � p,1I goo� s•,f,"
+ .�.. o �y r ry u
X,
7 1
giuMULA
Agure S- Aegi:pw Yap No-W one Land d Numawa{S"C.WrJra,April 1862-rcduc[ianJ Fig.—7- Y re r aerarL
fth h
.p ea.�Na Isaa�r;aa et rh.,aae as rf�m�•rr a JJsd n.
( 1 y DOurld/f11s of Walp.innle,Lauplhoohoe,Kapehu and Msrlua {Note:Lands between LaapAhoehoe and JNa ulua qot depic'rd m Boundary)
wfM udw Lila)
Hrn Ph., f F.—S —
f.1nPwu-L.PNc+ Ad .4.erlen eKd P—Ao-•vF M� L.C-Gec.PM.r$,WM) f6.-99
fK—.A.aO Auoc LLB-am.*"$,ypp{J HHE IfE.-yy
54-61
"The ordinary aluipnaa extends from half a mile to a mule into this [forest] belt.
Then there are larger ahupnaas which are wider i11 the open country than others,
and on entering the woods expand laterally so as to curt off all the smaller ones,and
extend toward the mountain till they.emerge to the open interior country; not
however to converge to a point at the tops of the respective mountains. Only a rare
few reach those elevations, sweeping past the upper ends of all the others, and by
virtue of some privilege in bird-catching, or some analogous right,taldng the
whole mountain to themselves...The whole main body.of Mauna Kea belongs to
one land from Hamakua,viz.,Kaolle,to whose owners belonged the sole privilege
of capturing the ualu1, a mountain-inhabiting but sea-fishing bird.High up on its
eastern flank,however,stretched the already mentioned land of Hu munla,whose
5ugg.26-02 8
upper limits coincide with those of the mamane, a valuable mountain acasia, and
which starting from the shore near Laupahoehoe, extends across the upper ends of
all other Hilo lands to the crater of Mokuaweoweo... [Lyons 1875:111; emphasis
added]. Traditions and historical records tell us that the practices of district
subdividing and land use as described above, were integral to Hawaiian life, and
were the product of strictly adhered to resource management planning. In this
system,the people learned to live within the wealth and limitations of their natural
environment, and were able to sustain themselves on the land and ocean. It is in
this cultural system that we can understand the significance of the lands of
Humu`ula, Ka`ohe, Pi`ihonua, and the neighboring`aina mauna."
Humu`ula,Maly17
Speaking of the resources of the Humu`ula Ahupua`a forests in 1904, R. Hosmer,
Superintendent of Forestry report for the upper boundary of the Hilo Forest Reserve noted
"Beyond Honohina the dense forest of Ohia and Koa comes up to the Humuula
line. From here on to the Hamakua boundary, the proportion of Koa is larger and
the forest is of greater potential commercial value." Humu`ula, Maly 241
In this light I would point your attention to the interesting feature that all of the vast Mauna Loa
and Mauna Kea Humu`ula upland resources funnel down to the singular beach and ocean access
of Ka`awali`i. In that context,you can see fleets of canoes launched forth and perhaps even the
name of Ka-awa-ali`i as Awa of AIN or valley or Valley of Knowledge within the larger valley
context/area there of Awawaike (as referred to in land boundary testimonies in Maly), and here
we turn to the story of Ka Miki.
What follows is excerpts from the Kaao Hooniva Puuwai no Ka-Miki" (The Heart
Stirring Story of Ka-Miki),which provides readers with a detailed account of Hawaiian land
divisions, environmental zones and Ka`awali`i`s exceptional capacity.
"Weloka and Kawalala`au then arrived at the halau of Paliku, and the kahua was
made ready for the contest between the champion Weloka and Ka-Miki.All of the
`olohe from`Awapuhi to Ka`ula, and the chiefs who upheld the laws of
Paliku-a-Kiko`oko`o assembled for the contest between Weloka and Ka-Miki. Those
assembled included Papa`aloa, Kihalani, Manowai`opae, and Pu`u`Alaea. The chief
Laupahoehoe was ill and did not attend. The twin chiefesses Waipunalei-a-Haho
(daughters of Paliku-a-ICko`oko`o), their guardian Hoku-li-a-lei (now called
Hokuli), the seer Nakapa`a, and his brother Ka`awali`i-a-lohelohe, (called
Ka`awali`i,who was the messenger-runner of the chief Lupea— Kahauoluapea),
and his sister Kaohaohalani (called Kaohaoha),
`O`okala-ku-nahihi-na-hulu-i-kamaha (now called`O`okala), and Ka-`ula-ku`i-a-lua
(now called Ka`ula), were also among those assembled at the kahua. These were
famous people of Paliku's time, and lands are named for all of them. Hilo Paliku-
Maly 27
The riddling battle ensues with great detail of the varying twists and turns, and at the
conclusion: "...Ka-Miki praised Pina`au's great skills, saying he had never met
anyone as capable as him. Ka-Miki then released Paliku-a-Kiko`oko`o and Pina`au
from the death kapu which had been set upon the riddling contest. Ka-Miki and
Pina`au continued competing as friends, and when the contest was over, Ka-Miki
commended both Pina`au and Ka`awali`i to cherished positions under their chiefs.
Hilo Paliku-Maly go
Sugg.26-02 9
From this excerpt one can gather the honor bestowed on Ka`awali`i, of exceptional knowledge of
mauka-makai land management and connections in olden times, as this story is set almost Boo
years ago.This importance is echo-ed by the ahupua`a size and relationship formalized by`Umi
some 500 years ago and utilized up thru the time of Kamehameha I,who in the 178os who won
several major battles here (one Kaholo,is the famous battle site in Humu`ula) and stayed to
farm in this area. In this area he is said to have declared the Law of Mamalahoa (Splintered
Paddle) as described in Hilo Paliku-Maly, 33-38 which, ironically for present day
Ka`awali`i, established trail right of way and safe passage across the island.The rare distinction
of Humu`ula ahupua`a was recognized even by Kamehameha the III thru in the 1848 Great
Mahele, retaining it part of Crown Land Inventory(Hilo Paliku-Maly, 73).And,with this in
mind, I urge readers to visualize the keiki of Laupahoehoe,North Hilo, Hamakua, and island
wide, regaining the Ala Loa access and stepping into this valley of knowledge as a place of
learning as only PONC purchase could facilitate.
While we have gone into a broader upland connection of Ka`awali`i with historic sites of interest
above, including the residence of Umi and his family in the area and the Waipunalei&vast
Humu`ula ahupua`a overall, here we will go into more detail of the coastline relationship with
nearby historical sites. Maly documents numerous heiau/historical sites in Laupahoehoe on
pages 63-68, several including:
"Heiau of Mamala or Haakoa,land of Haakoa and adjoining Waipunalei, Hilo. Located
near the edge of the bluff overlooking Laupahoehoe village.... It was probably this heiau at
which the chief Paiea was sacrificed by Umi" [Stokes 1991:1571. Hilo Palikfi-Maly, 64
Heiau of Papaulekii-Mamalahoa Ke Kanawai"Law-The old people of Laupahoehoe say
that here Kamehameha proclaimed the Mamalahoa Law on his return from the raiding
expedition to Puna known as the"Kaleleike."Hilo Palikfi-Maly, Pg 64/67
Regarding the place named Hokuli, Kamakau described it as being along the trail into
Waipunalei, a cave,in which`Umi hid,for a time,the god, Ku-ka`ili-moku(ibid.:ii). Hilo
Palikfi-Maly,32
Towards Hilo, Ka`awali`i` is connected via Kahoahuna&
greater Waipunalei ahupua`a to Ha`akoa,the Heiau of
- t • - , W�X Mamala and cave of Hokuli. Towards Hamakua on the
plateau above Ka`awali`i lay the village of Humu`ula
(described jovially and abundant in pages 245-250 of
William Ellis Journal),then `0`6kala forms a lesser
subdivision of Humu`ula, of which Ka`ula gulch is defined
as ma
uka/makai boundary and dividing line between Hilo
44F and Hamakua. Ka ula is the location&name of a large
heiau dedicated to Pele (described in Ellis 250-251).The
nearby land division of Kaohe in this i8gi Survey Map
(Maly Mauna Kea Ka Piko 485)touches the shore
near Koholalele,location of Manini heiau and the seaside
` = base of the `Umikoa trail. There are significant historical
stories names and physical sites that would be amplified
o2 and potentially preserved through acquisition and
� -
management of this Ka`awali`i `aina in a larger historical
1
� ? � context. Pg 183-220 of the State 2016 DOT Rockfall EA
y y`" gives maps and general cultural features of Ka`awali`i
i - local area whereas within the within the gulch/parcel
arcel
- g /p
itself,there is only sparse historical documentation:
FlgumM Red-11—of Reglatw Mep No.1941(C-J.Lyons,1991),ik-platiag na—la,
Kaoheand Ad;,Wn gLands
Sugg.26-02 10
Waiki K.Sworn -"The ahupuaa [pig altar cairn]is the boundary at seashore,bounded by
Kahoahuna; a pile of stones on the Hamakua side of the stream in Kawalii gulch,is the
boundary.Thence mauka along the stream,passing Kahanapehau grove and Piinau,
breadfruit on Kahoahuna.Thence up the kahawai to Waiolomea, a pool of water in the
gulch.Thence to Lapalapa where a gulch of Humula comes in from that land. Lapalapa is
on Humula by the boundary of Kahoahuna.......Mauna Kea Kuahiwi Maly et all 58
Kamohaiulu K.Sworn. -The boundary at shore is at Kawalii gulch at Kaahupuaa,bounded
on Kahoahuna;thence mauka along the gulch to Piinau,kauhale;thence to Lapalapa,a
cultivating ground.Thence the boundary runs up the kahawai to Mauiana gulch,a branch
of the Kawalii.There Kahoahuna is cut off by Humuula.Thence along the land of
Kahoahuna ist to Lainakaunohi,a spot in the old canoe road of Humuula at Mauiana.
Humuula Maly 2o6
aaikauna K. Sworn. -I was born at Humuula and have
lways lived there. Born at the time of Kiholo [ca. i8io] know
part of the boundaries of Humuula.My father Eekamoku
nd his father Kaapunini told them to me. Humuula is
ounded at shore on the Hilo side by Kahoahuna end at
Kaahupuaa the kahawai is on Kahoahuna, Kawalii gulch. The
hu is in front of the houses.Thence up the gulch to
ohoaokaakau, a cave thence up the gulch to Lapalapa;there
e gulch branches.Waikoloa on Kahoahuna,thence up the
orth branch Alanaio to Kapualeiapana;thence up to
auiana, a pali and waterfall Humuula Maly 207
Within the gulch there remains terracing and rock walls along the north and south side of the
stream which should be a focus for archaeological survey. It may be that the rock formations
nearer the shoreline would be the houses mentioned in testimony above by the ahupua`a
marker,then Kahanapehau grove is the flattened cultivating area on the North side of the river,
while the kauhale and Ulu grove named Piinau is the area at the bottom of the Ala Loa on the
South side. This may be where a hale wa`a and finishing sites existed, as the Waipunalei trail is
on this side and Koa forests above provided hollowed out trunks which would likely be finished
at the seashore,this practice lightened the load while minimizing transport risk of damage to a
finished canoe. We have not yet searched for Nohoaokaakau cave,while Lapalapa is likely at the
rear of this property before Highway 19 &steep ridge dividing the gulch into tributaries. The
tsunamis of 1946 and 196o must have had an impact here, however, significant historic sugar
plantation structures along the beach remain and are of importance themselves. Below are some
photos,including the well,pumphouse and other structures.
In 1922,a new high lift pump was installed to move two million gallons of water a day out
of Kaawalii Gulch up to the head of the main flume at the 750 foot elevation.The main
flume carried go tons of cane per hour to the mill. Laupahoehoe Sugar Company was
reportedly the first plantation in Hawaii to lift water for fluming as high as 750 feet(Ms.
Campbell).
l
A
J
r �
Sugg.26- �.. .
4)Preservation of forests, including beaches, coastal areas,natural beauty, and
agricultural lands Beaches, Coastal Areas: The proposed purchase and subsequent
management of this parcel would protect and enhance the natural beauty and quality of the
forest,valley and coastal area of North Hilo/Hamakua. While this parcel is mainly zoned
Conservation and no further development pressure exists, due to the building of the house gates
over the Ala Loa community access is currently restricted, and therefore exists a likely costly
community battle to restore access. It may be more cost effective and beneficial for community
relations to purchase easement or the parcel itself. Beaches and waterways such as at Ka'awali'i
are precious, and the superior use of this parcel is not as a private coastal estate,but as a place of
Community use and learning, especially with such able stewards as the LaupahoehoeTrain
Museum and Laupahoehoe School can provide. The focus of the parcel would shift from private
investment in a vacation rental-ed house and unmanaged wilderness (left to fill in with invasives
after sugar impacts and grazing)to that of remediation and amplification of native ecosystem
productivity via hands on indigenous knowledge systems for water management, agroforestry,
and native species remediation, appreciation and use.
Scenic Value, Natural beauty: From much of the parcel you cannot see or hear the highway,
and the coastal vistas here are quite stunning, as a verdant cover of deep green forest is laid
across black pebble beach and indigo waters,the twin gorges defining the Humu'ula prominence
in the background topped with light green ranchland up the slopes to snowy Mauna Kea and
blue skies above. We can imagine use of this space by a wide array of visual artists, and
community stewardship would work to preserve and improve the natural resources and view
planes for present and future generations to enjoy. The location of this parcel along the old Ala
Loa, Mamalahoa, Railway and possible connection as an alternate pedestrian route to the Lower
Cane Haul Road makes it a natural addition to the county's storied places of scenic interest.
This work towards a "string of pearls" along the coastline would increase economic opportunity
for nearby businesses in the area as well as the greater Hilo/Hamakua Heritage Coast.
Important Agricultural Lands:
"A review of the work performed by Newman indicates that the current project
area falls in the Scattered Farms agricultural zone. This zone is defined as having
low population density, dispersed settlement with few fishing villages at the coast,
and scattered fields and gardens with no major field systems (Newman 2000)."
(Hawaii State D.O.T. 2oio EA for Ka'awali'i Improvements Section 4)
Handy and Handy(1972:538) reported taro terraces "in and below" Laupahoehoe
and Maulua awawa in the late i800s. Some sweet potatoes were grown in all three
awawa and in the vicinity of Ka'awali'i, sweet potatoes "used to rival taro as a
staple." Handy(194O:164)noted "former taro lands along the lower slopes ... are
now covered by sugar cane." (Hawai`i D.O.T. 2010 EA for Ka'awali'i Improvements pg208)
"E Makoa e, run to Laupahoehoe and meet with the ali`i who are residing there and
say to them that I [page 1881 crave the kihikihi sweet potato, and also some of it
mashed, and also some n6pili [goby fish] of the upland
stream of LauP ahoehoe.You have heard. Run and tell
them of my craving."Words of Kamehameha, Hilo Paliku-
Maly, Page 35
The Hamakua coast area where Ka'awali'i resides is characterized
as one of exceptionally deep, rich soil,with abundant rain and
running water and is therefore one of the top agricultural zones on
the island. Significant freshwater resources run thru Ka'awali'i
valley itself, and along the valley walls a of this 13 + acre parcel,
Sugg.26-02 12
agroforestry could be conducted,with groves of ulu, awa, ohia`ai, hala, and more restored
utilizing the nitrogen rich kukui for optimal growth and ecosystem balance. On the wide valley
floor itself,there is an extensive flat plateau where food based agriculture for the community
likely was and could be restored fed by the stream&30` deep well. Hui Kako`o O Laupahoehoe
and partnering organizations could tend this area, hopefully inviting agricultural groups such as
HuiMAU,the Ulu Co-op,Niu Now, Olohana Project, and Project Kanu and others to make
waiwai this fertile valley floor with `uala, kalo, niu, mai`a,ki, `awa and more growing in the
moist valley soil.. Healthy relationships with`aina using these cherished traditions, as well as
community partners,would be a guiding principle in preserving and promoting the agricultural
and cultural character of the community.
Subsistence: This `aina holds special value through it's
x abundant natural resources including fisheries, hunting
grounds, native plants for gathering for lei,la'au lapa'au,
and other subsistence uses. Ka`awali`i remains a place
known for its abundant aquatic resources that are fished by
the area's local lawai`a (fishers).The stream, estuary, and
ocean produce prawns, ho`io, ahole, moi, `ama`ama,limu,
`opihi, and many other important food sources for local
families as it once did for those who lived in `0`6kala and
Waipunalei villages near this bay, and for the uplands of
Humu`ula and Ka`ohe. There is also an abundance of pigs as
well. This subsistence resource is particularly important
today for rural communities such as 0`6kala ((Niu and Kukui villages), Kukaiau, Laupahoehoe
and Papa`aloa who have a large portion of the population statistically living below the poverty
line. Preserving these community lifeways through public acquisition will help maintain this
special place and these valued traditions in perpetuity(Pic via SHPD report D.Chang)
3) Protection of natural resources, significant habitat or ecosystems, including
buffer zones Native Species: The State 2010 DOT EA for Ka`awali`i Improvements (PG 43)
notes sighting of indigenous White-tailed Tropicbird(Koa`e Kea) and Endemic I`o Hawai`ian
Hawk.The study also notes this area may contain endemic Hawaiian Petrel (Pterodroma
sandwichensis), or ua`u, and the threatened Newell's Shearwater(Puffinus auricularis newelli),
or`a`o,that may over-fly the project areas between the months of May and November, noting the
species breeds on Kauai, Hawaii, and Molokai in extremely small numbers. During my visit
there was a group of about 8 seabirds that may have been one or the other circling nearshore.
There is a large cave near the rivermouth directly below the house that was pointed out to me as
home to a large number of seabirds where the walls were streaked with white droppings. Due to
high tide&wave surge I was unable to get closer. The primary cause of mortality in both of the
seabird mentioned above is thought to be predation by alien mammalian species onshore and
secondary is collision with man-made structures as these nocturnally flying seabirds, especially
fledglings on their way to sea in the summer and fall, can become disoriented by exterior
lighting, issues not addressed in the Stewart 1992 Conservation Use Permit Application, nor the
issue of noise from vacation rental-ed events. In this general area of North Hilo noio are seen
nesting among the sea cliffs as well, along with sightings of`iwa and `auku`u (night heron) as
well. The State 2010 EA notes that it can be expected that Hawaiian Hoary Bats (ope`ape`a)
forage over sections of this area. For flora the EIS only surveyed up by the highway project area,
but indigenous or endemic plants of note were neleau,koali `awa, hau, ohi`a, hala,uluhe, and
Kalanchoe pinnata. Other plants of note can be found on pg 39 of the 2016 DOT EA Rockfall
Protection Plan.
Sugg.26-02 13
According to the DHHL 'Aina Mauna Legacy Program, mauka on Humu`ula Forestry lands
you can find"Palila,the Hawai'i 'Akepa, Hawai'i Creeper, 'Akiap6l5'au, 'Io, Koloa,Nene, and
Hawaiian Dark Rumpled Petrel (PG 29) and a list of endangered plants are on page 92 including
the na'ena'e and '6ha wai plant species and the natural communities of mamane subalpine dry
forest and koa/mamane montane dry forest. This mauka-makai corridor provides protection as
streams and gulches are often the last fragile refuge fauna and flora in the lowland. These
ecosystems are highly at risk and remediation is difficult once a complex web is disrupted,
however the studies above show there are likely species that could use study&stewardship here.
4) Protection of watershed lands to preserve water quality and water supply
Watershed:According to the 20o8 Division of Aquatic
Outstanding Resources (DAR)Atlas of Hawaiian Watersheds Ka`awali`i
Aquatic Resources
82002 is a perennial stream with a watershed area of 23.3
' square mi , 61.3%watershed zoned conservation,with 65.7%
i • .�, controlled by the state and 17.2%controlled by OHA. No
s ; sampling has occurred at the estuary,but headwater sampling
notes 3 types of Native O`opu (Goby);Awaous guamensis,
Lentipes concolor, Sicyopterus stimpsoni (Alamoo,Nakea,
Nopili) and Endemic Hawaiian Damselfy Megalagrion calliphya
4
(last surveyed in 198o,Table 18 on PG 189 of HSA doe below).
Historical studies that consider the stream worthy of protection
;µme include the Hawaii Stream Assessment (199o) rank Outstanding
Aquatic Resource (Map 4 above from PG2o6), Substantial
_ Riparian Resource (PG 227 Table 28 -At least 2 Threatened and
Endangered Birds &at least 1 Rare Plants), Cultural Resources
HAWAII Unknown/Not surveyed(possibly substantial due to valleys
along this coast protected from sugar bulldozing) and Moderate
Recreational Resource (Page 286 Table 40 includes Hiking
• Swimming Fishing Hunting and Views.The U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service ranked this as a High Quality Stream(1988),
with an overall DAR watershed and biological (native and introduced) combined ranking of 5,
which includes reach diversity, stewardship,wetness, size and other factors.
HAl-"A KEA W'ATERSHE.ALLIANCE -�'"^"+ MAI�-A KF AM AFE&S![EO ALLLLtiCE
l
i. Seats Cw1ama6cn piatrict
.. �..* - un pOFAW AIenagee A°aea
Pek Mum
.a.a.
—..x Awe
Mal
—a
" AW A yr"
Figure 12:Conservation District Subzones Figure 16:DOFAW Managed Areas
A large gap exists in our local knowledge of critical stream ecosystems in many areas and
scientists too treasure these public spaces, as they are often intentionally or inadvertently
excluded by private landowners as well as the larger public. Here we see that no Estuary Biotic
Sampling has been conducted in the studies above, only upper headwater reaches,this is
Sugg.26-02 14
unfortunate as estuaries are among the most productive natural habitats.Kaawali`i stream
scores a 2 on the Stewardship ranking by DAR,indicating a need for land and biodiversity
protection that is vital to its overall well being.We link here to a recent 2017 attempt by James
Jacob Akau to survey the Aquatic Resources at Ka`awali`i including water quality,salinity,fish,
coral and turf algae species composition,but difficulty of access(mentioned on page 37)was
part of why that did not happen. Rich species composition is likely to be similar to that listed for
nearby Laupahoehoe,and similarly,critically endangered Hawksbill turtles are known in this
area as well. Ka`awali`i and surrounding reefs need to be
surveyed and protected,and community level
engagement with this watershed is sorely needed for the
protection of these mauka/makai relationships to ensure
a ecosystem health for this and future generations_
Page 55 of the Mauna Kea Watershed Management Plan
(2olo)shows the State Conservation District subzones
a extending in Ka'awah'i valley mauka of the highway up
o to the Forest reserve lands above. Page 84 shows the
r DOFAW managed lands above,and also under DOFAW
f jurisdiction is the adjacent the Hilo Forest Reserve
`O`okala Community Forest on State Lands makai of the
highway at the shoreline(TMKs(3) 3-9-001: por. ❑13
and o18)under Cooperative Agreement between the
Division of Forestry and Wildlife,the Laupahoehoe Train
' Museum,the North Hilo Community Council and the
- - Laupahoehoe High School.It would make much sense to
claim the rest of the valley as public lands to the
v a shoreline to maximize prudent stewardship of this
valuable aquatic resource all the way to the beach. Also
of note is he'Aina Mauna Legacy P ogam for Humu`ula
+� Ahupua`a where DHHL seeks to restore portions of the
1 � Humu`ula/Pi`ihonua lands in perpetuity to conserve
native forests and natural habitats for future generations.
INTENT AND LONG TERM VISION:The long-term vision for Ka`awali`i is a community
driven space that includes continued community access to the natural and cultural resources of
the area,particularly the stream and shoreline,increased safety measures for the general public
and visitors,and forest and shoreline resource management.Ka`awali`i would need to be
archaeologically and biologically studied to identify sensitive resources such as the possible
presence of endangered species or historic sites,which would aid in the development of a
comprehensive stewardship plan.We envision an active stewardship with the youth of
Laupahoehoe Community Public Charter School(LCPCS)(and others)having a hands-on
opportunity to conduct agriculture and agroforestry as well as restore native species,cultural
sites,and understand the surrounding area and ahupua`a in a broader historical and
environmental context.Management of the existing natural resources would be based in the
traditional reciprocal relationship of Hawaiian resource use whereby a community can aloha
`aina and therefore may be fed from the source. Use of the existing house structures as a home
base for parking,tools and cleanup,a learning center,teacher housing and/or meeting area
would be an added benefit for the school and community as a whole.The opportunity provided
by conservation alongside education,cultural stewardship and agricultural projects could
provide much for this and future generations.With a robust and culturally appropriate
stewardship framework,the Ka`awali'i parcel could provide an invaluable natural resource for
the Laupahoehoe/ `0`5kala area,and the entire North Hilo/Hamakua Coast.There are
5ugg.26-02 15
additional concrete areas of environmental and community stewardship that we anticipate and
offer in detailed outline within the Draft Stewardship Plan included in the Letter of Support.
Attachment C: If available,provide conummity letters of support or endorsements
for this proposed acquisition or project.
Heather Kimball-Current County Council Ham&ua,Richard Eldridge via Realty-Property
Owner,Hui Kako`o o Laupahoehoe-Stewardship Organization,Laupahoehoe Train Museum,
DAR&HWF
Additional Letters of Support are pending: Makahanaloa Fishing Association,Na Ala
Hele, Hamakua CDP Action Committee,North Hilo Community Council,Hui Mau,
Attachment D:Identify and provide contact information of commintity
organizations, land trusts, or individuals willing to be part of this property's
long-term managentent/maintenance.
Hui Ka`ko`o O Laupahoehoe 5o1c3(fiscal sponsor-Laupahoehoe Community Public Charter
School)DRAFT Stewardship Plan Included with Hui Kako'o Letter of Support
Rachel Condor,Board President
nnninl���
Laupahoehoe Community Public Charter School(LCPCS)
Anna-Marie Mackey,Development Director
Laupahoehoe Train Museum
Dou Conner
Attachment E
i) How would the general public benefit from this proposed
acquisition or project? "From the earliest days,streams were among the most
important natural resources sought after by native Hawaiians."
-State of Hawaii
Division of Aquatic Resources.The Ala Loa is currently gated with permission to a few,and the
house has been used as a vacation rental for years. Currently the public sees little to no
maintenance of the trail or natural resources of the valley,and the landowner appears absent.
Invasive species have been allowed to multiply and other unchecked maintenance issues have
been building for years,such as rockfall on the trail and pig damage.As a vacation rental,large
parties were happening frequently(neighbors say almost monthly),causing noise,traffic&
safety issues for the neighborhood(as well as wildlife)although that has stopped,there is no
guarantee what the next owners will do. It is easy to see how private ownership of sensitive
parcels is a problem,the"private owner"is often less informed than the broader local
community,especially landowners from out of state_Stewarding these fragile native ecosystems
as a group decision with the community involvement of folks who know and love the area is
often a superior decision making process for conserving the natural resources of Hawaii.There
has historically been casual stewardship here,as community members take it upon themselves
to clean up rubbish and debris,maintain the access points,and share local knowledge of the
place.
Our goal with the proposed PONC purchase of Ka`awali`i is community strengthening of the
Laupahoehoe area,North Hilo/Hamakua Coast,and Island as a whole through prudent natural
resource stewardship and connection to`aina,local culture,and traditional ways of life.As
supported by the Hamakua CDP,public purchase of the land would legalize community access
to river,ocean and beach on what is otherwise a rugged coast dominated by cliffs.It would
protect traditional subsistence and recreational uses alongside remaining historic sites,trails
5ugg.26-02 16
and scenic vistas. It would prevent private ownership lapses in maintenance of an irreplaceable
natural ecosystem, prevent expensive and long community fights to restore access, and provide
cultural and educational opportunities for many. Because Ka`awali`i was inhabited but originally
reserved as crown lands,living descendants in the area would benefit from public preservation.
This parcel contains the Ala Loa and is part of an important cultural corridor connecting the
Hilo/Hamakua Heritage Coast.Although no longer dominated by native species,this parcel is
fully forested providing watershed and ecological services, and native species can still can be
found here, active stewardship and access would be significant to the advancement of knowledge
&health of stream ecosystems in Hawaii. FOR MORE DETAIL SEE SECTION B.
2) Describe any significant historic, cultural, or natural resources on the property
Situated at the junction of the ahupua`a of Humu`ula and Kahoahuna (subsection of the broader
Waipunalei Ahupua`a)between the Laupahoehoe and `0`6kala communities,this parcel is
connected within a large and ancient historical context and retains sites that should be
preserved and studied. Ka`awali`i Stream is a significant aquifer, natural resource, and rock&
pebble beach ocean access,along what is otherwise the mostly inaccessible pali cliffline. FOR
MORE DETAIL SEE SECTION B.
3) Describe and include maps showing any significant relationship to larger
historical, cultural, and/or natural landscape. (i.e. corridor, agricultural field
systems, conservation strategy, etc.)The abutting property to the North is State owned
and is part of the Forest Reserve system operated by the Laupahoehoe Train Museum as the
"`0`6kala Community Forest."This nomination does fit well within the larger community
priorities as outlined in the 2018 Hamakua Community Development Plan Section 4 pg 54-77
PROTECT AND ENHANCE NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES
for relevant priorities.
The Hamakua CDP Action Committee is likely to address endorsement of this PONC
Nomination of Ka`awali`i in mid February and a letter of support provided soon. FOR MORE
DETAIL SEE SECTION B.
4) Describe the level of urgency(i.e., the property is currently on the open market
or for sale and if so,for how long, there are current development plans, the
property has an active filed application for re-zoning/subdivision, is an area of
high public use, etc.).Now facing access and ecological remediation issues from all sides, is
the desire of the community to have a more legalized and concrete role to protect this resource
from unchecked use or neglect and restore customary access to what should be a shared space.
The potential sale of Ka`awali`i to an out of state landowner who does not allow public access is
already evident.The community faces a costly legal battle to restore Ala Loa access across the
parcel but will still need to cross private property to reach the beach. The Ka`awali`i parcel is
currently on the market and the price has dropped recently. The realtor, Howard Meguro,
thinks it is priced more competitively now and interest will rise. Correspondence with property
owners, Richard Eldridge, shows little interest in providing/selling a Public Easement.The
urgency of sale is compounded with the significant risk of forcing the general public to walk thru
the aquaduct beneath the highway to use the lower stream and ocean, and need to study and
care for this precious resource. Ka`awali`i is a treasured community space that is a critical
fishery,local swimming area, and cultural site.
5) Describe any special opportunities for acquisition that presently exist. (Special
funding available, etc.)This parcel is currently on the open market.The nominating group
has informed the owner of the community's interest in preserving the land and will search out
all avenues of funding and partnerships possible.The owner has sent a letter of intent to sell (see
Attachment C) and while the price currently includes 3 parcels, is willing to talk story further
about what Parcel format works for the county.TMK:3-6-005:15 includes the driveway, main
house,pool, and valley. Perhaps PONC could cover this main parcel,while the nominating group
seeks funding for the ADU triangle house (above the pool) on parcel 3-6-005:14 that is CPR`d
with same owner.We are not sure how all this will develop but just nominating as is for now.
Sugg.26-02 17
Sadly,we do not think the current owner is aware that the Ala Loa is located where the"private
1922 Sugar road"is and we are hesitant to broach this subject without full documentation and
hope of a win-win situation for all,therefore we are submitting this PONC nomination first.
6) Have partnerships with other government agencies or private or nonprofit
entities been identified to leverage resources (funding, grants, managing
partnerships)?X Yes We are actively seeking other funding sources and collaborative
organizations as well as expertise and resources to leverage into this proposed acquisition,
including reaching out to Hawaii Island Land Trust,Trust for Public Lands and Moku O Keawe
and consulting on the the Ala Loa with Na Ala Hele.A Managing Partnership between the
responsible and resourced organizations of Hui Kako`o O Laupahoehoe and the Laupahoehoe
Train Museum would enable stewardship of this property to be served by grants and
partnerships beyond just the County. The nominating hui will be actively seeking additional
resources to assist in the purchase including the State Legacy Lands, State Department of
Forestry, UH Hilo (Forestry), Hawaii State Department of Aquatic Resources, as well as other
private landowners.Additionally there are several Non-profits and Non governmental
organizations that are based in North Hilo &Hamakua to approach on collaboration for
Ka`awali`i including the North Hilo Community Council, HuiMAU and others, Hawaii Wildlife
Fund, Olohana Foundation.
7) Is/Are the property(s) or property easement(s) available for acquisition?X Yes
The current landowner has been supportive of this nomination with the help of realtor Howard
Meguro is willing to explore the option of public purchase (see letter of intent to sell).
8)Are there any covenants, encumbrances, restrictions (i.e., association or
maintenance), or easements on the property?X Yes
There are no community association dues on this property. No unclaimed kuleana parcels.
The property is under a dedicated Conservation District exemption for tax purposes and are
within the County Agriculture Property Class -Agriculture -20. Boundary interpretation map
#89 75. Coastal portions of the properties do lie within the County Special Management Area.
Hawaii State Land Use Designations are for the parcel Conservation District TMK 3-6-05:15 &
93 Resource subzone map H-52 (Kukaiau Quadrangle) for the river valley and shoreline pali.As
stated in Section 13-2-13 Resource subzone,the objective of this subzone is to develop,with
proper management, areas to insure the sustained use of the natural resources of those areas.
Easements:
Hawaii Electric Light Company June 141985 Bureau of Conveyances Book 18728,Page 558
Hawaii Telephone Company, Book 4614 Page 230
Free Flowage of Water in Ka`awali`i stream
Property borders the ocean and subject to HRS 205, sections 31 to 37 relative to setbacks and
prohibitions on use, and regulations on Land Use Commission&County Planning Department.
Property borders State Highway 19 and road remnant of Old Mamalahoa Highway.
Land Grants 3688 S. Kaiewe, 5528 A. Holokahi, 7565 Waipunalei Agricultural, 7800
Laupahoehoe Sugar
3-6-05:14 Beard Parcel 1.618 Condo Master Agricultural.
9) Describe any known hazards on the property(i.e., flood zone,lava hazard zone,
mudslides, pollution, etc.).Flood Zone X- Minimal flooding except within river area. Lava
Zone 8. Pali and Valley contain Clifflines, Steep trails.Tsunami Hazard. Little Fire Ants are
present. Property borders ocean and highway.
REFERENCES CITED and LINKS:
County of Hawaii Real Property Tax Office Online Map
https://qpublic.schneidereorp.com/Application.as x?ApplD=1048&LayerlD=23618&PageType
ID=1&PageI%2oD=9875&KeyValue=27010027000
Sugg.26-02 18
TMK Maps of interest 36001&36005
https://www.planning.hawaiicounty_.gov/resources/tax-maps-tmk-maps/-folder-�024*doefold
14 2989 2224 2024
1992 Stewart Conservation District Use Permit Application
https:Hfiles.hawaii.gov/dbedt/eM/EA EIS Archive/1AA2-0�-o8-HA-FEA-Stewart-Residence.
pdf
Coldwell Banker Realty Listing by Howard Meguro
https://www.howardmeizurorealtor.com/for-sale/�6-28.o-hawaii-belt-rd-ookala-hi-A6774/id
'12�48o
Waipunalei Homestead Grant 3688 &Lot 1, Lot 2, Lot 7
https://ags.hawaii.gov/31p-content/uploads/2013/o4/Grant3688.12df
https://aizs.hawaii.,izov/wp-content/uploads/201�/o4/Loto114�.pdf
https://ags.hawaii.gov/3Lp-content/uploads/201�/o4/LotO21Or;.12df
https://aizs.hawaii.,izov/wp-content/uploads/201�/o4/Loto766.pdf
192o Territory of Hawaii Grant 7565 Pump House Lot to Waipunalei Sugar
https://.izis.hawaiicountv..izov/public/downloads/plhyperlinks/Grants/7.'36.'3.pdf
192o Territory of Hawaii Grant 7565 Oil Pipe Right of Way to Waipunalei Sugar
https://.izis.hawaiicountv..izov/public/downloads/plhyperlinks/Grants/7800.pdf
Hawaii Statewide GIS Portal:Ahupua`a
htt s: geoportal.hawaii.gov/datasets/ahupuaa/explore?location=19.817861%2C-155.099478�
2C15.99
DLNR Na Ala He le,Ancient, Historic, and Old Government Trails and Roa sin Hawaii
https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/recreation/files/2013/og/Highways-Act-Summary.pdf
State Of Hawai'i DLNR Ookala Community Forest Stewarship Hilo Forest Reserve 2016
https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/C-1.pdf
PONC 2016 Annual Report to Mayor, Pg 56 Kaawa a Prior Nomination 200 7 15
ttps: recor s. awancounty.gov e in 1 e oc/84678/2016-12-28%20(2016%2oPONC%2
oAnnual%2oReport%2Oto%2othe%2oMayor).pdf
Mauna Kea Kuahiwi Ku Ha`o I Ka Malie A Report on Archival and Historical Documentary
Research Ahupua`a of Humu`ula and Ka`ohe Districts of Hilo and Hamakua 1997 Kepa Maly
umu Pono Associates
ttps: www. umupono.com wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Mauna_Kea_Kuahiwi_Ku_Hao_i
_ka_Malie_KPA02_o827-4.pdf
Humu`ula and Pi`ihonua, Lands that Adorn the Chiefs on the Mountain Lands of Hawaii, Maly
2004 Kumu Pono Associates
ttps: www. umupono.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/2004_03-31_Humuula-Piihonua-
Hilo-Hawaii-PDF.pdf
Hilo Paliku: Hilo of the Upright Cliffs:A Study of the Cultural-Historical Resources of Lands in
the Laupahoehoe Forest Section, Maly
https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/ecosystems/files/2013/07/Cultural-Historical-Report-Lapahoehoe.pdf
Mauna Kea Ka Pi o Kau ana 0 Ka `Aina, Kumu Pono Associates,Maly
https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/ecosystems/files/2013/07/HiMK67-_OMKM-033005b_pt7.pdf
Ulukau Community Resource Portal https://ulukau.org/,
Sugg.26-02 19
Heiau of Hawaii,Thrum 19o8
Bird, I. 1875 Six Months in the Sandwich Islands. University of Hawaii Press 1966.
https://archive.orjz/details/hawaiiarchipeloobird/pa1ze/no/mode/2up
Journal of William Ellis 1823, Hawaiian Gazette Co 1917.
https://archive.orjz/details/iournalofwilliam0004�4mbp
No Presha Spearfishing Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=.�,cUBeoWXRYs
Division of Hawaii Aquatic Resources Hawaii Watershed Atlas DAR Ka`awali`i Hawaii 82002
https://www.hawaiiwatershedatlas.com/watersheds/hawaii/82002.pdf
State of Hawaii, DLNR Commission on Water Resource Management
https://files.hawaii.,izov/dlnr/cwrm/publishedreports/R84 HSA.pdf
https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/cwrm/surfacewater/ifs/hawaii/
Mauna Kea Watershed Management Plan 2010, Carolyn Stewart Mauna Kea Watershed Alliance
https://records.hawaiicounty.g_ov/WebLink/1/edoc/1i8477/FINAL%2oMauna%2oKea%2oWat
ershed%20M�4t%2oPlan%2oApril%20201o.12df
Hawaii State Water Resource Protection Plan 2019 Ka`awali`i Stream Code 8o83
https:Hfiles.hawaii.govov/dlnr/cwrm/planning/wrjp201Aupdate/WRPP ALL 201Ao7.12df
Hawaii State Water Resource Protection Plan 20o8 Ka`awali`i Stream Code 8o83
https://files.hawaii.jzov/dlnr/cwrm/Oanninjz/wrpp2oo8update/FINAL WRPP Secto�.pdf
DHHL 'Aina Mauna Legacy Program
https://hookuleana.com[proj ects/aina-mauna-legacy-program/
Akau,North Hilo (Hilo Paliku) Coastal Fishery Assemblages
https://dspace.lib.hawaii.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/81542a35-99cl-4684-9262-8oa4735
41fd9/content
Division ot Aquatic Resources Home Page
https://dlnr.hawaii.jzov/dar/habitat/about-streams/cultural-importance/
Satellite Tracking of Hawksbill Turtles Nesting in the Hawaiian Islands 2000
https://georgehbalazs.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Balazs eta_ on roc_p279_2000.
p
ama ua%!,ommunity Developmentan 2018 Section 4 pg54-77
https://records.hawaiicounty.gov/WebLink/1/edoc/135215/County%goof/2oHawaii%20-%20
Hamakua%2oCommunity%2oDevelopment%2oPlan%20(2018).pdf
-nni uo;emi'i Territory Survey,village of Humu`ula
State of Hawaii DOT Rockfall EA Protection 2010 &2016
https://files.hawaii.gov/dbedt/erp/EA_EIS_Library/2010-07-o8-HA-FEA-Hawaii-Belt-Road-
Rockfall-Maulua.pdf
https://files.hawaii.gov/dbedt/erp/EA_EIS_Library/2016-07-23-HA-DEA-Belt-Road-Rockfall-
Protection.pdf
Sugg.26-02 20
DEADLINE TO FILE BY JANUARY 31,2026.BY 4:30 P,AI Rewhed-12-26.2025
COUNTY OF HAWAI'I I4rse d fwv ficr�:
Public Access,Open Space,and Natural Resource Preservation Commission 02
Su".u 2E
SUGGESTION FARM Reed 1129126 9:28 prT
For Lands and/or Property Entitlements for Acquisition
The Public Access, Open Space,and Natural Resourm Preservation Commission{PONQ is accepting suggestions
for sites of projects to Improve upon public access,open space,and natural resources preservation, pursuant to
Chapter 2, Article 42, of the Hawaii County Code. Please use this farm to tell the Commission about a property
that you would like to see protected.The Commission welcomes re•submisslon of previously submitted properties.
Please use one form per suggestion and limit total applkatlon size to less than 14 MB)megabytes)or 20 pages max-
Imunt (including photos, maps, and figures, if adjacent or nearby areas are protected and/Or public areas,Include
regional maps as well). Additional public testimony may be submitted to exceed the 20 page mawmum. The
Commission's ranking of the suggestion is based on the completeness of this suggestion form and how It meets the
PONC scoring criterla and not solely on the expression of public support of appositlon.
Name of Site or Project: Ka'awalr'I Gulch Beach&Estuary
Ahupua'a,Council District,aild Location Wit hin• 0+umvuula Ahupua'a,Disillce 1,O'okA3u Ma"- 3G-29SS?+IAWA116ELT ROAD
Tax Map Key[TMK)Number(s[:-j e 14-2 t13,952%fy,a 1-91•17(4,UM sky Land Area(Acreage)- .14-1uFacn=
Property Owner Information:
Name(s); Richard FIlAndgc Emaih
1;ontm1 NJ A tall ur Howard Meyuru Col dwe11
Address a_. ,r.twn i o.,,l,-1 - Phone-
Has the property owner been consulted and agree with this nomination; E]Yes []No ❑unsure
Suggested Purchase Method: ❑Conservation Easement OFee Simple []Other
Nominators Contact Information:
Name(s): Phirc[hon Krrncy Email:
Address: Phone:
Reason for nomination of property(please check atl boxes that apply)
W Public outdoor recreation and education,including access to beaches and mountains
®Preservation of histonc or culturally Important land areas and sties
®Protection of natural resources,significant habitat or ecosystems,including buffer zones
f1(1 Preservation of forests,including beaches,coastal areas,natural beauty,and agricultural lands
LO Protection of watershed lands to preserve water quality and water supply
Hawai'i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer
Page 1 of 3
Sugg.26-02 21
ADDITIONAL REQUIRED INFORMATION
Please provide the information requested be;ow. T}re inforrrration shaEl be attached to this farm and appropriately Labeled
with the name of the identifying attach men t.
)il Atta&nbamtA,Provide a Tax Map Key Plat map and a property map with the property boundaries and/or proposed
a ocess outlined or highlighted-Confirm the rounol district by oontacing the County Clerk's OHioe at:("951.32T7
or visit httpts�({ usr-elections-hawaii€ounty.gow/Fescurces/maps.
> Attachment 9-provide&dear statement detailing haw public acquisition would fulfill one ar more of the above
resource values. Explain the intent,long-berm vision,and/or strategy of this proposed acquisitiDn or project-
> Attachment C:If available,provide community letters of support or endorsements for this proposed acquisition or
project.
?+ Attachment D:ldentifyand provide bbntact information Of tommunity organizations,land tru#ts,or individuals will-
ing to be part of this property's long-term ma nagernent/maintenance.
Attachment E Please answer the following to n points by providi ng summaries and/or abstracts{rather tha n full re-
porto.Include,if neeessaryr citations or links to reference the docurnentation related to the suggested site or project.
Do not send Original documents or pictures as they will not be returned.
1M How wou Id this proposed acquis ition or protect benefit the general publ ic?
2} Cestribe any tigniftcant historic,cultural,or natural resour€eson the property.Please be as specific as possible
and indude only a summary of dommentation(i.e.,arrhaeologi€al reports,flora{fauna surveys,et€-)-
3) deirribe(and intfude maps if avai lable)any significant relationship to larger historical,oultural,and/or natural
landscape(i.e.,wfrrdorSr€omplexes,agricultura I field systems,Wriservatian strategies etc-)
A) Desrsi be the level flf urgency '-E-r the p rope rty is currently on the open market or fa r sale and if sa,for howl
long,there are€u went development plans,the property has an active filed a ppl ication for re-son ing/subdiwi-
sion,is a n area of high public use,etc.M.
5) Desrribe a ny special opportunities for acqu isition that presently exist(spedal funding awailable,etc.M,
6) Have partnerships with other government agencies or private or nonprofit entities been identified to leverage
r2s61Jroes(funding,grants,managing partnerships)?®Yes ❑hlo ❑Unknmm- If yes,please describe-
7) is/Are the property(s)or property easernent(sj available for acquisition?IN Yes ❑No ❑Unknown-
If yes,please describe-
8) Are there any covenants,encumbrances,restrirtions(Le.r association or rnai ntena ncel,or easements on the
property? J Yes ❑No ❑Unknown if yes,please describe-
-9) Uesrribe any known hazards on the property(i.e,flood zone,lava hazard zone,muds)ides,po ll utionr etc-)-
Hawai'i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer
Page 2 Of 3
Sugg.26-02 22
SEJRIV WION INSTRUCTIONS
The Suggestion form and attachments may be submitted via email to F DNCC-iawa icoupCy.gDv,.oryou may mail IUSPS,
FedEx,UPS,etc_)it to:
County ok Hawai'i
Property Management-PONC
25 Aupu n i Street,Suite 1101
Hilo,Hawai'i 96720-4ZSZ
All nominations must be rc€clued by 4;30 p.m.an January 31,2026,as evidenced by the County-of Hawaii
time clock,PST.The ContmissionwIII not review any submissions received after the deadline.
We are not rmponsib€e for forms Iost in the mail,
For further information contact Property Management Division at(81M)961-8Q69 or PONCOhawraiicounty,gow
Hawaii County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer
Page 3 of 3
Sugg.26-02 23
WM.ta�n q.1104430D fVA-RiT t-1104NX00MI F--•ice
January 26,2026
Hawaii County Department of Finance
Public Access.Open Space,and Natural Resources Preservation Commission
Haman Ventura.Property Manager
25 Aupuni St..Su Re 1101
Hita,Hi 96720
Legacy Land Conservation Program
Hewan department of Land and Natural Resources
115 t Punchbowl Street,Room 325
Honatutu.HI 96813
Nomination torTMK parcels:
3-3-6-5-15(13.68 acres)36-2650 HAWAII BELT RD.00KALA.HI 96774
3-3-6-5-14-2(113,85201
3-3-9-1.17 14.182 sf)
PONC priority list for 2025
Aloha.
This tranamittai 19 to contirm that Richard and Lynette Eldredge,owners.of the above referenced props rtiea,1a
witting to set!the p ropertiaa to the County of Hawaii/Stata of H ewe ii OR any other buyer who offers to
purchase the prepertias on pace and terms acceptable to Richard and Lynette Eldredge
The propenia9 are Bated for 113,200,0M with C0L.DWELL BMKER ISLAND PROPERTIES,will be acznvety
marketed and Richard and Lynette Eldredge re servea the right to sett the propemes to any buyer of its
choosing.
Seller rs open to discuasron onvarloua options in regards to the 3 parcels to facilitate the sale.
It you need any furthof information,please contact Howard Meguro.His contact information is below
Howard Meguro
ColdweLl Banner Island Pro erties
We Look forward toworking with you in completing a transaction that will benefit the people of the County and
State of Hawaii and waist 10 preserve the pnadna nature of these properties.
With Aloha,
,�elwd E+�rrd�r y rNIII' i'COF.lj,1
Richard Eldredge Lynette Eldredge
Sugg.2&02 24
1/23126
Rachel Condor. Board President
Hui Kako'o o Laupahoehoe
Dear Public Open Space & Natural Resource Preservation Commission,
We as Hui Kako'o o Laupahoehoe are extremely interested in the potential for Public
Open Space and Beach Access at Ka'awali'i Gulch via purchase of the parcel located at
36-2850 Hawaii Belt Road. TMK(3)3-"05:015 } CPR with (3)3-6-005:014, This
valley including beach and stream Could be of great benefit to the community as an
invaluable educational and cultural resource. We hope to steward this parcel alongside
Laupahoehoe Train Museum and inviting others to join including local fishing and
educational organizations as available.
We look forward to further discussions of how this possibility might develop with PONC
and the broader community so that this parcel could serve as a living laboratory for our
area youth, and have submitted a draft management plan in the PONC application. With
the involvement of Hui Kako'o o Laupahoehoe. this land can transition from a pnvate lot
to an educational resource where students learn about watershed health, native
species, and responsible land stewardship.
Protecting the stream and beach from privatization is critical to the long-term health of
our coastline and community. In conclusion, we support this effort to identify& seek
funding for the Purchase of this Property through the PONC process and look forward to
the opportunity to steward this parcel for the greater good.
Sincerely.
aw� C".1
Rachel Condor. Board President
Sugg.26-02 25
HUI KAKO`O O LAUPAHOEHOE DRAFT Stewardship Plan
The plan below presents a process to develop a comprehensive community driven stewardship
plan of the lower reaches of Ka`awali`i Stream. Hui Ka`ko`o O Laupahoehoe is willing to
spearhead the stewardship of Ka`awali`i with support from community centered organizations
such as the Laupahoehoe Train Museum, HuiMAU, Makahanaloa Fishing, and others.The
long-term vision for Ka`awali`i would include continued community access to the natural and
cultural resources of the area particularly the stream and shoreline, increased trail maintenance
and safety measures for the general public and visitors such as signage, and forest and shoreline
resource management.We see Ka`awali`i as a community driven space with deep cultural
connections that fosters a sense of aloha `aina and continues to feed our`ohana both spiritually
and physically.With this acquisition the Laupahoehoe Community Public Charter School
students will have the added benefit of using their applied learning skills to practice and
There are some concrete areas of environmental and community stewardship that the Hui
Ka`ko`o O Laupahoehoe anticipates and offers in detailed outline within the following sections.
Community consultation, mapping, planning Conduct community focused group
meetings at LCPCS school to gather input for the vision and scope of restoration and
management and community use of the area.
Identify a core group of stakeholders for continued
stewardship,inviting descendants of the area, kupuna, and residents of the immediate and
surrounding areas. Gather data, identify themes, and report back to the community. Survey the
area to develop a map of natural and cultural resources including endangered plant and animal
species and significant habitats, historic structures for preservation, and proposed spaces in line
with the community vision. Develop stewardship plan in detail and budget incorporating
feedback from the community meetings, stakeholders,the County and other relevant
government agencies.
Managed Access and Safety Identify and manage historical accesses with ongoing
maintenance.This includes maintenance of trails and mowing of grass. Identify possible
community safety hazards including parking issues,visitor traffic safety and dead or fallen
debris. Create and install signage in collaboration with relevant government agencies i.e. signage
to inform visitors of the hazards of swimming in certain areas, etc.
Restoration and Management of Native Ecosystems, Forests, and Fisheries Develop
fisheries and planting recommendations to incorporate into a stewardship plan. Clean up
rubbish along the trails, stream,beach and uplands section.
Install fencing in strategic areas to
limit pig damage, and pig control within the valley through active trapping. Control of invasive
Little Fire Ant (LFA)infestation.
Identify and improve native plant habitats and removal of
invasive plants. Host school and community Aloha `Aina days to build relationships to place
and history through active stewardship,including agriculture and agroforestry to restore
ecosystem health and feed the community through cultural stewardship and recreation.
Sugg.26-02 26
HEATHEJ2 L.1iCf JgAJjL _ Pkj": (8-M)9b ANN
- Fax: (AV)961.8917
cdmm[g Ew"Wel 1(Mtfh H16- - Email:!,(eLaAk�I; JItlG �fO-^�RH�JL4�El R1-"
Hcametklaz ubdpdN20H of athJe trJ
HA AH COUNTY COUNCIL
25AapomiSa i.Ere-1402.
HAo.HaGu d 7 96720
January 21,2026
Public Open Space and Natural R-esoarces Conservation Commission
Department of planning
RE, PONC Nomination Letter of Support—Ka'awali'i Gulch
Aloha Chair and Members of the Public Open Space and Natural Resources Conservation
Commission,
am writing in strung support of the proposed acquisition of Ko awali`i 13tr1ch through the
County of Hawai`i's public Open Space and Natural Resources Conservation(PONC)Fund
Program-.As the Hawaii County Council Member representing District I,1 believe this
acquisition represents an exceptional and time-sensitive opportunity to preserve a place of
extraordinary natural cultural,historical and community value for present and future
generations.
Ka`awali'i Gulch is a rare and irreplaceable rnmAa-makai resource that embodies the very
purpose of the PONC program-i.ocated along a rugged stretch of coastline where public ocean
access is extremely]united,this area provides one of the few remaining opportunities to secure
permanent public access to forest,stream,estuary,and shoreline resources along the North Hilo-
H3m&ua coast-Community members have long retied on Ka'awati`i for fishing,gathering,
swimming,surfing,hiking,and cultural practices,despite increasingly constrained access due to
private ownership and gated roads.
The gulch and shoreline are deeply embedded in Hawai`i's cultural and historical landscape-
Ka`awali'i lies at the makai junction of the Humu`uta ahupua'a and historic mauka-makai trail
systems,including alignments of the Ata Loa and Waipunalei Trail that once connected coastal
settlements to the uplands of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa.These corridors supported centuries of
agricultural productiov,ceremonial travel,canoe building,fishing,and inter-district exchange-
Preserving Ka'awali'i therefore protects cot only physicat resources,but also the integrity of
living cultural landscape that continues to shape conununlly ideffity and practice today.
Hawal i Couelp is aK Egu al 0ppor1uxfrP Pmwder amd Empfo}tr.
Sugg.26-02 27
Public Open Space seed Natwa3 Rmaurccs Cwmrvation Cmrunismica
Jzmry 21,206
Page 2
From a natural resource perspective,Ka`awali`i Gulch contains a 11ighly productive watersFiet
estuary,and nearshore marine ecosystem that is inereasingty rare along the H�mlkua Coast_Ttie
stream,valley,and reef support native aquatic species,important fisheries,and endangered
wildlife,while also providing vital watershed finnttions chat protect downstream water quality
and coastal resources_Public acquisition would allow for coordinated stewardship,scientific
study,invasive species management,and long-term protection of these fragile ecosystems in a
way that private ownership cannot reliably ensure_
Equalty important is the strong community stewardship framework already in place.Local
organizations,cu€1ural practilioners, fishermen educators,and nonprofit partners have cleaNy
expressed their willingness to matama this' ina through collaborative,conun"ty-driven
management_Partnerships such as these crease a realistic and compelling pathway for
responsible access,education*restoaatior4 and long-term tare consistent with PONC objectives_
The urgency of this acquisition cannot be overstated_The property is expected to be placed on
the open market in the near term,and recent hisiory along the Hdm2kua and North Hilo coast
demonstrates bow quickly treasured places can be last to exciusive private ownership,resulting
in prolonged community conflict,restricted access,and irreversible hann to public trust
resources_Acting now through the FONC program offers the County an opportimity to avoid
those outcomes and instead secure a lasting public benefits
For these reasons,I strongly urge the Commission to recommend the acquisition ofKa`awali'i
Gulch through the PONC Fund.This project aligns squarely with County and corwunity
priorities to protect watershed lands,preserve cultural and historic resources,maintain
agricultural and subsistence practices,and ensure equitable public access to Hawai'is natural
heritage_
Mahalo for your thoughtful consideration of this nomination and for your continued service in
protecting the lands and resources that sustain our island communities.
Me ke aloha,
ijr-1.��)P-'�
HEATHER KIMBALL
Flawai'i County Council Member,District 1
Sugg.26-02 28
r •-a
January 26,2026
r -
Laupahoehoe
Dear Public Open Space&Natural Resource Preservation Commis-
Train Museum sion,
A Grp Back in Time"
I have recently become aware of community efforts to preserve Pub-
lic Open Space and Beach Access at Ka`awali`i Gulch,via purchase
Pub-
OFFICERS of the parcel located at 36-2850 Hawaii Belt Road,TMK(3)3-6-
Lisa Barton 005;015+CPR with(3)3-6-005:014, This 13.67 acres of valley,in-
President cluding beach,stream and natural resources are of great benefit to the
community. We support the nomination of this parcel especially if
Lucille Chung stewarded by active community organizations such as Hui Kako`o o
Vice-President Laupahoehoe(the nonprofit arm of Laupahoehoe School)alongside
Laupahoehoe Train Museum and others including local fishing and
Chris Kornet educational organizations.
Secretary
I am the president of our organization and we have been stewards of
Doug Connors the Ookala Community forest for over 25 years.This nomination par-
Treasurer cel had the railroad running through it back in the day.So it is of
great interest to us and would be a fine addition to the historic places
to experience along the coast.This parcel buts up to the Ookala
DIRECTORS Community forest lands and would add to that asset.
Chris Harrison
In conclusion,I support the efforts of the community to identify&
Jenny Bach seek funding for the Purchase of this Property through the PONC pro-
cess and the management of Ka`awali`i in order to steward this parcel
Aretta Martin for the greater good.
Rose Broughton Mahalo,
Lizzetta Riders
Q/
Laupahoehoe Train Museum
P.O.Box 358 Lisa Barton
Laupahcehoe,H196764
Phuie:808-962-6300
Web address
www.thetrainmuseum.com
Sugg.26-02 29
0
Hawal°I Wildlife Fund
rk ikY .ins i. Fs,-N&
ro �6?74
. v, �.IF,►.1dlfi i�M.W E.r-.skli,
29aanuary 2026
Pom-, SUPPOU for WmWrl Gukft nantlrtatim to PONC
Aloha Pars€lc Open Space&Natural Resource Preserdatlon[ommisslonws.,
we write in gong support of ooromunity txllix#s to p mgwoe open space wd protect beach access at
XMIV nGulch through p�jrehaseofthe parcel located at36.28SO H2waa Dolt Kbad, 1MK(3)3-6-
005:1015+-CPR wdh TW(1)M4)OS:014.
This I167•acre valley—encornpassirig besachr!area ra,and rich natural resources—represents a
sigrilf Ica nt opportunity far corarnunity benefit.The parcel would he Ideally stewarded through
€ollaboratlon among active cam munity organizations Including H u I kakoro o Laup6hoehoe(the nonprofit
arm of LaupAhoehoe School�r LaupAhoehoe Traln Museurn,and vocal fishing onganlza#inns-Should fee
slmple pun€hase of the entire parcel prove unfeaslhler we Strongly advocate for restoring puhll€access
through easement purchase,as current access Is gated over what was hlstorIcally the Ala Loan with no
apparent puhlIc right of way.
r-IawaO WI IdIIfe Fund[HWFI Is a nonprofit organization with thirty years of experience conserving native
species across Hawal'I-Our work encompasses research,education,nestoratron,and advo acy focused
an protecting coastal and nearshore eonsystems.Based on Flawal'i Island and Maurr we concentrate our
Hawai'I Island coastal restoratlon efforts along the rewrote ka'fi coastilne,includrrig several properties
that have already been secured In perpetuity through PONC funding.
We wholeheartedly support using puhll€funds through the POW pnagram to acquire and steward these
Ka'awall'I Gulch parco's 'iresc properties are critically Important for:
• NativevdldLlfe habitat and corridors in the region
• CPVnm4mltyaue55for onidents,lish4!m aAd gi§therers
� Wataershed health and vital mauka-r'naka i con nectiorm
www wseiip
Sugg.26-02 30
Again,Hwwwn WUW%Fund drvngdfmqxwts wrnmwftellm to fundk*for*b pmparty
thou the FONC press.Proper stewardship of Kia'awall'i Gulch will serve the greater goad for
gen-5rations to come. Please let us know If you have any further questlons or feel free to call J email if
you'd like to discuss more. Many thanks for your time and conslderatlon on this Important matter!
Me ka mahrrlppumek�orra.
)�47W
MMn&Lamson,M4 Hmnah Benurd
Itawai'! W-ldl;fe Fund—Kealakekua Hawal'cWtldlpfeFund—Pala
Presiae-lt&Hawaii Program DiMhdbt {a-founder&Fxerutive airectar
rneprr@wlldhawall.M 1 908-.217-5777 hannah +ulldhav►a�I.or�
Sugg.26-02 31
41;-W WEEFl SLG ��*i} 0 1.CRXNd
UV•Yw'"dw I aY auywn +fit h.MPL dF I.FNI IM IL{1�Pok.RCs to�CLS
&Y LvL%LLi We £OYMfGwI dX'kJ:LRPf:h_#1.
usY"a_4tl+
"G_RL}."h'dMT]F1gR.l/A IIOPL wM!hi
WAY IL#.K-XAK06 LXi
F TWL
J CLkhk WX UROXXi
}k �� [GPWIY GIRLCTdR.N%TiR
EIN//A IRRi91L+SP�IMIRiT4R
STATE OF HAWMI I KA NOKt1"AM'0 HAWAI'I ¢m+�'La�.v.nc aawnrxa
DEPAI mENT or LAND AND HATURILL RESOURCES
KA'DIFIANA KUMLIWAMAI IAINA
DPOSION OF AQUATIC RESOURCES
1151 PUNCFIR014L STREET,ROOM 330
HONOLULU,KAWAH k4i3
January 23T 2026
Dear Public Open Space&Natural Resource Preservation Commission,
The Division of Aquatic resources have recently become aware of canununity eflarts to preserve
Public Open Space and Beach Access at KA'awali'i Gulck via purehase of the parcel located at 36-2854
Hawaii Belt Road,TMK(3)3-&005,015 T CPR with(3)3-6-005:014_ This is 13_67 acres of valley
including beach and stream whose natural resources are of great benefit to the community,especially so
if stewarded by active community organizations such as Hui Kako'o o Laupahoehoe(the nonprofit arm
of Laupahoehoe School)alongside Laupahoehoe Train Museum and others including local fishing
organizations_ if whole pwcet fee simple purchase is not possible it would be of benefit to!Save public
access restored via easement purchase as current access is gated aver what was once the Ala Loa and no
public right of way is apparent.
We ar the Division of Aquatic resources support and encourage sustainable fishing,including those
connected to cutture and tradition. The presence of freshwater,estuarine,and adjacent marine habitats
in thss space promote a divine array of aquatic resources,which in turn facilitate numerous
opportmvties for sustainable take_ Maintaining access to these resources is critical to the continuation
of practices involving aquatic resources. The purchase of this property through the PONC process is a
step towards maintaining access to these resources for present and future generations_
In conclusion,we support the efforts of the community to identify&seek fLLn&ng for the Purchase of
this Property through the PONC process and the management ofKa'awali`L in order to steward this
parcel for the gt-eater good_
Sincerely,
Man J.Neilson
Administrator,Division of Aquatic resources
Sugg.26-02 32