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Protection of natural resources, significant habitat or ecosystems, including buffer zones Traditionally the kula lands were an important part of the ahupua`a as prime areas for agriculture and habitation.While many of the native species once associated with the area are no longer in abundance, native species such as the`a`ali`i, alahe`e, lama and wiliwili can still be found here. A large kukui grove can be found near the southern boundary as well as ulu and noni. Native birds such as the `io, nene and k6lea have been seen in this area, as well as the native bat, `6pe`ape`a. The kula lands are integral to these native species as well as to the ahupua`a in its role of helping to capture water. Protecting these lands will help in the restoration of this system by planting more native trees on lands that were once predominantly used for sugar and cattle grazing. Protecting the property will allow EKF to remove invasive vegetation and replate native vegetation including but not limited to `a`ali`i, alahe`e,wiliwili, and others for food, la`au (medicine), lei, and traditional crafts and implements. Preservation of forests, including beaches, coastal areas, natural beauty, and agricultural lands Forest: Protecting Ka`alaiki Kula will allow for native plants to return to the lands; strengthening and expanding a continuous connection between mauka to makai. Forest restoration is vital in helping to return native biodiversity, habitat for native species, enhancing water retention and quality, and help mitigate effects from climate change. Natural Beauty:The kula lands are an important agricultural resource, but they also enhance the natural beauty of the entire landscape.Viewing these lands from the highway, one can witness the splendor of the famous pu`u of Ka`u with the lush forests and Maunaloa in the background and sweeping kula lands in the foreground.The Pu`u of Ka`u are the pride of Ka`u and preserving them along with the surrounding landscape is of great importance to the kupa o ka `aina o Ka`u (natives of Ka`u). Agriculture: Past agricultural uses of the lands (sugar cane production, cattle ranching)disturbed the natural environment and native vegetation. However,these agricultural practices have deep roots in many families of Ka`u. Protecting Ka`alaiki Kula will preserve the history of sugar cane and cattle ranching while helping to mitigate the disturbance of these practices in partnership with local cattle ranchers and the community. Protection of watershed lands to preserve water quality and water supply Protecting the propertywill help maintain a healthy environment for the area's water resources (groundwater and streams).The property falls within the Hilea watershed.The nearshore waters at Honuapo Bay makai of the property is owned by the county and stewarded by Ka `Ohana o Honu`apo.While the upper forest lands are most commonly noted for drawingwater in and Sugg.26-05