HomeMy WebLinkAboutSugg 26-05 redacted DEADLINE TO FILE BY JANt-ARY 31,2026,BY 4:30 PM Revised—12-2b-2025
COUNTY - — AI'I Reserved for office use.
Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resource Preservation Commission
SUGGESTION FORM s►,gg'#26 os
For Lands and/or Property Entitlements for Acquisition aec'd 1/30/26 3.46 pm
The Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission (PO N Q is accepting suggestions
for sites or projects to improve upon public access, open space, and natural resources preservation, pursuant to
Chapter 2, Article 42, of the Hawai'i County Code. Please use this form to tell the Commission about a property
that you would like to see protected. The Commission welcomes re-submission of previously submitted properties.
Please use one form per suggestion and limit total application size to less than 10 MB(megabytes)or 20 pages max-
imum (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 maximum. The
Commission's ranking of the suggestion is based on the completeness of this suggestion form and how it meets the
PONC scoring criteria and not solely on the expression of public support or opposition.
Name of Site or Project: Ka`alaiki Kula
Ahupua'a, Council District,and Location Within: Ka`alaiki Ahupua`a, Ka'u District, Council District 6
Tax Map Key(TMIC) Number(s):
9-5-016:008, 010, 011, 024, 026, 031, 033, 034, 035 Land Area(Acreage): 1,749.4
Property Owner Information:
Name(s): Edmund C. Olson Trust (Paul Alston) Email:
Address: Phone:
Has the property owner been consulted and agree with this nomination? BYes ❑No ❑Unsure
Suggested Purchase Method: BConservation Easement ❑Fee Simple ❑Other
Nominators Contact Information:
Name(s):
Kala Mossman (EKF) Kamuela Kaapana (TIP Email:
L} kalaf@edNanakadefounda[ion.orgkamu6a.kaapana@tpI.org
1500 Kalaniana'ole St. Hilo, HI 96720-4914
Address: Phone:
Reason for nomination of property{please check all boxes that apply}
R Public outdoor recreation and education, including access to beaches and mountains
8 Preservation of historic or culturally important land areas and sites
8 Protection of natural resources, significant habitat or ecosystems, including buffer zones
Iiiiiiii Preservation of forests, including beaches, coastal areas, natural beauty, and agricultural lands
R Protection of watershed lands to preserve water quality and water supply
Hawai'i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer
Sugg 26-05 Page 1 of 3
ADDITIONAL REQUIRED INFORMATION
Please provide the information requested below. The information shall be attached to this form and appropriately labeled
with the name of the identifying attachment.
➢ Attachment A: Provide a Tax Map Key Plat map and a property map with the property boundaries and/or proposed
access outlined or highlighted. Confirm the council district by contacting the County Clerk's Office at: (808)961-8277
or visit https://www.elections.hawaiicounty.gov/resources/maps.
➢ Attachment B: Provide a clear statement detailing how public acquisition would fulfill one or more of the above
resource values. Explain the intent, long-term vision, and/or strategy of this proposed acquisition or project.
➢ Attachment C: If available, provide community letters of support or endorsements for this proposed acquisition or
project.
➢ Attachment D: Identify and provide contact information of community organizations, land trusts, or individuals will-
ing to be part of this property's long-term management/maintenance.
➢ Attachment E: Please answer the following ten points by providing summaries and/or abstracts (rather than full re-
ports). Include, if necessary, citations or links to reference the documentation related to the suggested site or project.
Do not send original documents or pictures as they will not be returned.
1) How would this proposed acquisition or project benefit the general public?
2) Describe any significant historic, cultural, or natural resources on the property. Please be as specific as possible
and include only a summary of documentation (i.e., archaeological reports, flora/fauna surveys, etc.).
3) Describe (and include maps if available) any significant relationship to larger historical, cultural, and/or natural
landscape (i.e., corridors, complexes, agricultural field systems, conservation strategies etc.)
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/subdivi-
sion, is an area of high public use, etc.).
5) Describe any special opportunities for acquisition that presently exist (special funding available, etc.).
6) Have partnerships with other government agencies or private or nonprofit entities been identified to leverage
resources(funding,grants, managing partnerships)?0 Yes ❑ No El Unknown. If yes, please describe.
7) Is/Are the property(s) or property easement(s) available for acquisition? DYes El No El Unknown.
If yes, please describe.
8) Are there any covenants, encumbrances, restrictions (i.e., association or maintenance), or easements on the
property? ❑ Yes ❑ No 0 Unknown If yes, please describe.
9) Describe any known hazards on the property(i.e., flood zone, lava hazard zone, mudslides, pollution, etc.).
Hawai'i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer
Sugg.26-05 Page 2 of 3
SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS
The Suggestion form and attachments may be submitted via email to PONC@hawaiicounty.gov, or you may mail (USPS,
FedEx, UPS, etc.) it to:
County of Hawai'i
Property Management- PONC
25 Aupuni Street,Suite 1101
Hilo, Hawaii 96720—4252
All nominations must be received by 4:30 p.m. on January 31, 2026, as evidenced by the County of Hawai'i
time clock, PST. The Commission will not review any submissions received after the deadline.
We are not responsible for forms lost in the mail.
For further information, contact Property Management Division at (808)961-8069 or PONC@hawaiicountv.gov
Hawai'i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer
Sugg.26-05 Page 3 of 3
Attachment A
Provide a Tax Map Key Plat and property map with the property boundaries and/or
proposed access outline or highlighted
Al . Tax Map Key Plat
A2. Ka`alaiki Kula — Detail
A3. Ka`alaiki Kula - Vicinity
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Attachment B
Provide a clear statement detailing how public acquisition would fulfill one or more of the
above resource values. Explain the intent, long-term vision, and/or strategy of this
proposed acquisition or project.
Sugg.26-05
Attachment B
Public outdoor recreation and education, including access to beaches and mountains
The Ka`alaiki Kula project seeks to preserve and protect nearly 1,800 acres of the kula (plain, field,
open pasture)lands of the Ahupua`a (land division from mountain to sea)of Ka`alaiki.These lands
run between highway 11 on the makai side and Ka`alaiki road on the mauka side. Currently the
makai side of the ahupua`a is protected by the County of Hawaii and the mauka lands by the State
of Hawaii.
Protecting the kula lands would ensure the entire ahupua`a is preserved, allowing this `aina to
serve as a cultural educational site demonstrating the importance of ahupua`a land management
practices as well as protecting significant cultural and archaeological sites including a railroad
trestle and `Imakakaloa Heiau.This particular heiau is unique, associated with the rebel Chief of
Puna, it is one of two intact examples of hula heiau in the state. `Imakakaloa the Chief, is also
historically important as he rebelled against then Ali`i nui (high chief) Kalani`opu`u and was later
sacrificed in Ka`u by Kamehameha, an act which pitted him against his cousin Kiwala`o the son of
Kalani`opu`u and marked the beginning of his journey to become M6 (king). Roads and paths exist
to visit these sites allowing for cultural educational experiences for the public.The public also can
volunteer to help maintain the area by removing invasive species,fencing and planting native food
crops, plants and trees.
Preservation of historic or culturally important land areas and sites
As mentioned above there are many historic and culturally important sites and land areas within
the boundaries of this property as well as associated sites in nearby properties. `Imakakaloa heiau
is one of three significant heiau in the immediate area. Kohaikalani heiau sits directly north of
`Imakakaloa on the pu`u (hills) known as Makanau and Koloa the site famous for its birthing stones
is due east. Another important alignment is that Ke`eku heiau on the coast is aligned with the rising
of the sun during winter solstice from `Imakakaloa heiau.These alignments are a testament to
Native Hawaiian knowledge systems which integrate astronomy, science, arts, and spirituality into
natural resource management. and therefore Because these heiau are connected both
functionally and spiritually,they should be preserved as an interconnected cultural landscape
rather than a single site with arbitrary boundaries. Other cultural sites include ahu, stone
structures, marking the ahupua`a boundaries as well as trail segments, habitation sites and
agricultural features. Additionally, there are at least 35 known place names associated with
Ka`alaiki ahupua`a (see Attachment E2).
Historically,the railroad trestle is an excellent example of railroad construction in the late 1800`s
early 1900`s in Hawaii and is verywell preserved.This historic feature spans the entire ahupua`a
from the northern boundary to the southern boundary and is easily accessible from highway 11,
allowing for easy access for the public to view this engineering feat. It was built by an engineer
named Michael Maurice O`shaughnessy, an accomplished civil engineer associated with many
projects in Hawaii and the bay area.
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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
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contributing to the water table,the kula lands also playa role in capturing the water drawn in by the
nearby forests. Since them a kai and mauka lands of Ka`alaiki are currently protected, protecting
the kula lands assures that the watershed for this area will remain healthy, contributing to Hawaii
islands water supply. Ka`alaiki is known for its abundance of underground water, and stories are
told of the divers of Ka`u who would dive into the ocean with their empty gourd containers to
capture these sweet waters from springs rising from the sea floor. Although this area only receives
twenty to forty inches of rain per year,water is plentiful at the coastal area. Anon-perennial
stream, Hilea Gulch lies at the north boundary of the ahupua`a,with a total length of 16.9 miles,
rises up to 4200 feet elevation and flows down to Kawa. Preserving this property from subdivision
and residential development will minimize pollution, erosion, and runoff which would negatively
impact the property's stream and groundwater resources.
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Attachment C
Letters of Support
1 . Hui o Kuapa (Maile Naehu & Hanohano Naehu)
2. Ma Ka Hana Ka `Ike (Lipoa Kahaleuahi)
3. Kanani Aton
4. Lineage of Light (Jody Mountain)
5. Sharon Rowe
6. Jan Wizinowich
7. Palama Foundation (Pete Kaio)
8. Haley Kailiehu (Hui Malama I Ke Ala `Ulili)
9. Protect Kaho`olawe `Ohana (Craig Neff)
10.Waimea Hawaiian Civic Club (Edith Kawai)
11 .R. Likeke Teanio (Kalamau `Ohana)
12.Ka Papa Lo`i O Kanewai (Makahiapo Cashman)
13.Kalei Cosma
14.Alizon Atkins
15.Serafina Gajate
16.Hu1ili Ke Kukui, Honolulu Community College (Faith Kahale Saito)
17.Keli`i William loane Legacy Foundation (`Ainaaloha W. loane)
18.Ka `Ohana o Honu`apo (Nohealani Ka`awa)
19.MAHA (Malama Ka `Aina Hana Ka `Aina — Keli`i William loane Jr.)
20.Ka `Ohana Po`oloa (Keali`imakamana`onalani Po`oloa)
21 .Noelani Puniwai
22.Wise Ancestors (Ann Pace)
23.Pohaku Pelemaka (Makani Gregg)
24.Hawai`i Land Trust (Dane Kealoha)
25.Blueprint for Change (Shayne Kukunaokala Yoshimoto)
26.Hoaloha Westcott
27.Kawaikini Public Charter School (Namomi McCorriston)
28.Darlene Martin
29.The Nature Conservancy (Shalen Crysdale)
30.Agricultural Stewardship Hawaii (Dave Elliott)
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2/22/2026
VIA EMAIL: ekf@edithkanakaolefoundation.org
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation
1500 Kalaniana`ole Street
Hilo, HI 96720-4914
VIA EMAIL: kamuela.kaapana@tpl.org
Trust for Public Land
1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka`alaiki Kula, Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii Island
To Whom It May Concern,
Hui o Kuapa strongly supports the Ka`u community, Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation, and Trust
for Public Land's effort to purchase and protect Ka`alaiki Kula (approximately 1,600 acres) in
Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii Island. Ka`alaiki Kula runs between Highway 11 on the makai side and
Ka`alaiki Road on the mauka side. Protecting the kula lands would ensure the entire ahupua`a
is preserved, allowing this area to serve as a cultural educational site demonstrating the
importance of ahupua`a land management practices as well as protecting significant cultural
and archaeological sites, including a railroad trestle and `Imakakaloa Heiau, one of two intact
hula heiau in the Hawaiian Islands.
The Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation is a Hawaiian culture-based non-profit 501(c)(3) organization
established in 1990 to maintain and perpetuate the teachings,beliefs, practices, philosophies,
and traditions of the late Luka and Edith Kanaka`ole. EKF's mission is to elevate Hawaiian
intelligence through cultural education founded on the teachings and traditional practices of
Edith and Luka Kanaka`ole. EKF possesses a high level of Hawaiian cultural knowledge and
skills relating to land and resource practices as well as cultural site restoration, protocol, and
ritual.
Hui o Kuapa educates the local and global community about Native Hawaiian resource
management and innovations through hands-on experience in the loko i`a or fishponds, as well
as through advocacy of native rights and issues. The organization has been instrumental in
raising awareness about the need to care for our planet and food security in rural communities.
It proudly continues to carry out that mission today.
Our mission directly aligns with Ka`alaiki Kula. As an organization,we have sought guidance
and professional development through programs offered by Edith Kanaka`ole
Foundation, such as Papaku Makawalu. It has greatly impacted our work and deepened our
understanding of our kuleana regarding ahupua`a restoration.
Sugg.26-05
If Ka`alaiki Kula were to be developed, the negative impacts would be significant and
irreversible. Development would threaten or destroy culturally and spiritually important sites,
including `Imakakaloa Heiau—one of only two intact hula heiau in the Hawaiian Islands—as
well as other historic and archaeological features. It would also fragment the mauka-to-makai
integrity of the ahupua`a, disrupting traditional water flows, ecological balance, and Indigenous
land management practices.
Development would further result in environmental degradation, including erosion, loss of
native ecosystems, and downstream impacts to coastal and marine resources. Most critically, it
would eliminate the ability of this landscape to function as a living cultural and educational site
for `ike transmission, stewardship, and community-based food systems. Once developed, these
losses cannot be mitigated or recovered.
Protecting, restoring, and stewarding Ka`alaiki Kula through community leadership will
directly benefit our organization by creating opportunities for shared learning and collaboration
with practitioners engaged in work similar to that of Hui o Kuapa. Stewardship of an intact
ahupua`a allows us to exchange knowledge, practices, and innovations in Native Hawaiian
land and resource management, strengthening our collective capacity to care for place.
Ka`alaiki Kula would serve as a living cultural classroom where organizations, practitioners,
and community members can learn from one another's work, deepen kuleana, and apply `ike
grounded in place. This reciprocal relationship supports our education, advocacy, and food
security efforts while contributing to long-term cultural and environmental resilience for
Hawaii and future generations.
Our organization's vision for Ka`alaiki Kula is that it remain protected as an intact ahupua`a,
stewarded by the community as a living cultural landscape. We envision the land restored and
cared for through Indigenous practices, serving as a place for cultural education, `ike
transmission, environmental stewardship, and reciprocal learning among practitioners,while
safeguarding its cultural, spiritual, and ecological integrity.
Mahalo me ka ha`aha`a,
Maile Naehu-Program Director
Hanohano Naehu- Head Kia`i Loko and Resource Manager
Hui o Kuapa
99205 Kamehameha V Hwy.
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Kaunakakai, Hi 96748
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"in Working, One Learns"
January 22, 2026
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation
1500 Kalaniana`ole Street
Hilo, HI 96720-4914
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka`alaiki Kula, Ka`u, Hawaii Island
Aloha mai kakou,
On behalf of Ma Ka Hana Ka `Ike, I write to express our strong support for the Ka`u community,
the Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation (EKF), and the Trust for Public Land in their efforts to purchase
and permanently protect Ka`alaiki Kula (approximately 1,600 acres) in Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii
Island.
Ka`alaiki Kula extends from Highway 11 on the makai side to Ka`alaiki Road on the mauka side.
Protecting these kula lands would preserve the integrity of the entire ahupua`a and allow the area
to serve as a living cultural and educational site demonstrating traditional Hawaiian land
management practices. This protection would also safeguard significant cultural and
archaeological resources, including a historic railroad trestle and `Imakakaloa Heiau, one of only
two intact hula heiau in the Hawaiian Islands.
Established in 1990, the Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation is a Hawaiian culture—based 501(c)(3)
nonprofit dedicated to perpetuating the teachings, practices, and philosophies of Edith and Luka
Kanaka`ole. EKF's mission—to elevate Hawaiian intelligence through cultural education
grounded in traditional knowledge—has made it a trusted leader in land and resource stewardship,
cultural site restoration, and the observance of protocol and ritual. Their depth of `ike and
demonstrated capacity position EKF as the right organization to carry the kuleana of restoring and
stewarding Ka`alaiki.
Ma Ka Hana Ka `Ike is a community-based, hands-on learning program rooted in Hana, Maui. For
more than twenty years, we have worked alongside Hana's young people to build practical skills,
cultural connection, and a sense of responsibility to `aina and community. Through this work, we
understand how essential it is to steward lands in ways that reflect community values and ensure
access to meaningful learning beyond the classroom.
Several members of our staff have directly benefited from EKF's cultural leadership,most recently
through their Papaku Makawalu workshop series. These experiences have deepened our
understanding of Hawaiian ways of knowing and strengthened our capacity to serve our
community with integrity. We also bring firsthand experience in community land return efforts,
having partnered closely with Ke Ao Hali`i, the Hana-based nonprofit established to acquire and
steward land returned to community. This work has shown us the critical role a strong, values-
driven nonprofit plays in ensuring that land is properly cared for and preserved in perpetuity.
P.O.Box 968 fir' HANA,HI 96713
PH (808)248-8581 Fax(877)595-3585
kokua@hanabuild.org 0 www.hanabuild.org
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"in Working, One Learns"
As an organization committed to developing the next generation of community caretakers, we rely
on trusted partners who steward spaces that sustain our connections to `aina, kupuna, and ancestral
knowledge. I am honored to offer this letter of support and to affirm our belief that Ka`alaiki Kula
is best restored and cared for under the stewardship of the Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation.
Me ka ha`aha`a,
C�e-10R a
Lipoa Kahaleuahi
Executive Director
P.O.Box 968 fir' HANA,HI 96713
PH (808)248-8581 0 Fax(877)595-3585
kokua@hanabuild.org 0 www.hanabuild.org
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Kris Kanani Aton
Private Consultant and Cultural Practitioner
January 22, 2026
VIA EMAIL: ekf@edithkanakaolefoundation.or�
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation
1500 Kalaniana`ole Street
Hilo, HI 96720-4914
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka`alaiki Kula, Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii Island
To Whom it May Concern,
My name is Kanani Aton a resident of Hawaii Island and long-time aloha `aina (land patriot and
advocate). I strongly support the Ka`u community, Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation, and Trust for
Public Land's effort to purchase and protect Ka`alaiki Kula (approximately 1,600 acres) in
Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii Island.
Ka`alaiki Kula runs between highway 11 on the makai side and Ka`alaiki Road on the mauka side.
Protecting the kula lands would ensure the entire ahupua`a is preserved, allowing this area to
serve as a cultural educational site demonstrating the importance of ahupua`a land
management practices as well as protecting significant cultural and archaeological sites
including a railroad trestle and `Imakakaloa Heiau, one of two intact hula heiau in the Hawaiian
Islands.
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation is a Hawaiian cultural-based non-profit 501(c)(3) organization
established in 1990 to maintain and perpetuate the teachings, beliefs, practices, philosophies,
and traditions of the late Luka and Edith Kanaka`ole. EKF's mission is to elevate Hawaiian
intelligence through cultural education founded on the teachings and traditional practices of
Edith and Luka Kanaka`ole. EKF possesses a high level of Hawaiian cultural knowledge and skills
relating to land and resource practices as well as cultural site restoration, protocol, and ritual.
My personal mission is to activate the regeneration of our native flora and fauna through family
engagement, community service and volunteerism. This is in direct alignment to the protection
of Ka`alaiki Kula. I am hanai into the Hanoa family of Waiohinu and wife of a Ka`u born native
who was raised in Waiohinu. I am also a student of Halau o Kekuhi, a traditional school of hula
under the auspices of the Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation. Hale Kealohalani Makua is an esteemed
elder under whom I was mentored, and his `ohana is rooted in East, South and West Hawaii
Island. My `ohana is genealogically rooted under our matriarch Georgina Kalaiopuna Kaho`iwai
of whom her ancestors hail from Waipi`o Valley 10 generations back.
Ka`alaiki is a place that the Hanoa family and Halau o Kekuhi introduced me to over 30 years
ago. There is a lifestyle, a life way that they showed me and it is a unique stewardship that
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supports the health and well-being of the area lands, waters and people. Their kind and
generous introduction of me to this lifestyle impacted me tremendously and we need places for
them to continue to thrive and teach and practice their life ways. We need them to continue to
evolve and bring their incredible intelligence and perspectives to modern day challenges...and
to give them Ka`alaiki as a place for them to do that would be vital.
I would benefit from this effort because I would go to Ka`alaiki as I have in the past and
participate with them in whatever the charge is that needs to be done. I would benefit by
continuing to be a practitioner, a native of the land and a role model for my grandchildren to
watch me and do as I do.
Mahalo,
Kanani Aton
Private Consultant and Cultural Practitioner
Sugg.26-05
0"
ANC 1 ENT 1--F XWXJ lAN B 0 DyWO KK
IMMERSIVE RETREATS, TRAININGS & APPRENTICESHIPS
January 22, 2026
VIA EMAIL: ekf@edithkanakaolefoundation.org
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation
1500 Kalaniana`ole Street
Hilo, HI 96720-4914
VIA EMAIL: kamuela.kaapana@tpl.org
Trust for Public Land
1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka`alaiki Kula, Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii
Island
To Whom It May Concern,
I write in strong support of the Ka`u community, the Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation, and
the Trust for Public Land's effort to purchase and permanently protect Ka`alaiki Kula—
approximately 1 ,600 acres located in Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, on Hawaii Island.
Ka`alaiki Kula extends between Highway 11 on the makai side and Ka`alaiki Road on
the mauka side. Protecting these kula lands would ensure the preservation of the entire
ahupua`a, allowing this area to serve as a living cultural and educational site that
demonstrates the importance of traditional ahupua`a land management practices. This
protection would also safeguard significant cultural and archaeological sites, including a
historic railroad trestle and `Imakakaloa Heiau—one of only two intact hula heiau
remaining in the Hawaiian Islands.
The Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation (EKF) is a Hawaiian cultural-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit
organization established in 1990 to perpetuate the teachings, beliefs, practices,
philosophies, and traditions of the late Luka and Edith Kanaka`ole. EKF's mission—to
elevate Hawaiian intelligence through cultural education grounded in these teachings—
reflects a deep reservoir of `ike Hawaii. The Foundation possesses extensive cultural
knowledge and expertise related to land and resource stewardship, cultural site
restoration, protocol, and ritual, making it uniquely qualified to care for and steward
Ka`alaiki Kula.
My organization, Lineage of Light—also registered as Ancient Hawaiian Bodywork—
perpetuates the ancient wisdom teachings of Kahu Abraham Kawai`i through retreats
ANCIENT HAWAIIAN BODYWORK • LINEAGEOFLIGHT.COM • PO BOX 790144 • PA'IA, HI 96779
Sugg.26-05
and trainings in Lomi KeAla Hoku. This work carries principles of restoring communion
with nature, both within ourselves and in relationship with the natural world.
As such, we are firmly committed to the authentic and enduring protection of cultural
and educational sites that support the restoration and continuation of Hawaiian cultural
practices and sacred places.
I also wish to share my personal connection to the Kanaka`ole `ohana and lineage. I
was an original cast member of `Ulalena, originating the featured role of "Taro."As part
of our training, we had the honor of receiving chants and hula from Aunties Pua and
Nalani Kanaka`ole, and of learning from their mana`o. Since that time, I have continued
to follow and support the work of the Kanaka`ole `ohana through lectures, performances,
and online offerings, including Kekuhi Kanaka`ole and her daughter, Kaumaka`iwa
Kanaka`ole.
Although I do not have Native Hawaiian ancestry, I feel a profound connection to the
Kanaka`ole Foundation's purpose through my own Indigenous roots. I am originally from
Jamaica, with ancestry that includes Arawak Indian, African, South American
Indigenous, and Japanese lineages. The shared Indigenous understanding of land as
living, conscious, and relational binds me to this effort in respect and reverence for the
wisdom of the land and those who malama her.
If Ka`alaiki Kula were to be developed, we would lose a rare and irreplaceable
opportunity to preserve and cultivate an entire ahupua`a. Beyond the loss of cultural and
archaeological sites, such development would diminish the mana of the land and
foreclose the possibility of demonstrating the profound effectiveness of traditional land
stewardship practices.
The benefits of preserving Ka`alaiki Kula extend to all. In the teachings I have received
—and across Indigenous cultures worldwide—the land is understood to be alive and
conscious. Protecting the integrity of the ahupua`a restores balance and respect among
all its interconnected elements. Land, water, plants, animals, and people are nurtured
together in harmony. In this way, the flourishing of each element strengthens the whole,
creating a living system far greater than the sum of its parts.
My hope for Ka`alaiki Kula is that it becomes a beacon for Indigenous-led preservation
—an enduring example of how natural and cultural resources can be protected,
restored, and honored through ancestral knowledge. May it stand as a powerful
educational site demonstrating how a resourceful, reciprocal, and harmonious
relationship with the natural world is both possible and essential.
Mahalo nui Ioa for your consideration.
With respect,
Jody Mountain • Founder, Lineage of Light/Ancient Hawaiian Bodywork
Contact: jody((�)Linea_.ecl ofLight.com •
ANCIENT HAWAIIAN BODYWORK • LINEAGEOFLIGHT.COM • PO BOX 790144 • PA'IA, HI 96779
Sugg.26-05
Sharon Rowe, PhD, MFA
January 30, 2026
VIA EMAIL: ekfn-edithkanakaolefoundation.ora
Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation
1500 Kalaniana'ole Street
Hilo, HI 96720-4914
VIA EMAIL: kamuela.kaapana@tpl.org
Trust for Public Land
1 164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka'alaiki Kula, Ka'alaiki, Ka'u, Hawaii Island
To Whom it May Concern,
My name is Sharon Rowe and I write in support of the Ka`u community, Edith Kanaka'ole
Foundation, and Trust for Public Land's, in their efforts to purchase and protect Ka'alaiki Kula
(approximately 1,600 acres) in Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii Island.
Ka`alaiki Kula runs between highway 11 on the makai side and Ka`alaiki Road on the mauka
side. Protecting the kula lands would ensure the entire ahupua`a is preserved, allowing this
area to serve as a cultural educational site demonstrating the importance of ahupua'a land
management practices as well as protecting significant cultural and archaeological sites
including a railroad trestle and `Imakakaloa Heiau, one of two intact hula heiau in the Hawaiian
Islands.
Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation is a Hawaiian cultural-based non-profit 501(c)(3) organization
established in 1990 to maintain and perpetuate the teachings, beliefs, practices, philosophies,
and traditions of the late Luka and Edith Kanaka'ole. EKF's mission is to elevate Hawaiian
intelligence through cultural education founded on the teachings and traditional practices of
Edith and Luka Kanaka'ole. EKF possess a high level of Hawaiian cultural knowledge and skills
relating to land and resource practices as well as cultural site restoration, protocol, and ritual.
I represent no organization and have no direct relationship to the EKF although I have been
privileged to learn from them over the years.
As a citizen of this state for more than 50 years I have seen what happens as the land is
continually developed and over developed. No longer, for example, do the clouds rest upon the
Ko'olaus as they once did, nourishing the land, keeping its climate temperate and providing
abundant clean water. Highrise development in Waikiki and downtown Honolulu has changed
the pattern of winds that once also lent to a temperate climate, offering a congenial environment
Sugg 26 09
for all things that live here. Lately, I look up into Manoa valley and see the mountains turn from a
rich vibrant emerald green to a somewhat lighter shade and I know that this reflects the drought
and increasing temperatures that are changing the landscape and seascapes that identify
Hawaii nei.
We all know what will happen if we continue to overdevelop the lands. Maui is a case study.
West Oahu serves one as well. We have drought, increased heat, decreased trade winds and
rains, acidification of our ocean and loss of beaches, and increasing numbers of plant and
animal invasive species to look forward to.
We will all benefit if land is preserved, better if lands are restored. I wish to see as much
preservation and restoration of Hawai`i`s lands and seascapes as is possible and believe the
EKF has proven itself capable and willing to continue with this trust for Ka`alaiki Kula.
Mahalo,
Sharon Rowe
Hawaii citizen
Sugg.26-05
Jan Wizinowich
ft
TalkStory.org
January, 22, 2626
Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation
1566 Kalaniana'ole Street
Hilo, HI 96729-4914
ekf(d,ed ithkana kaolefou ndation.org
Trust for Public Land
1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
ka m ue la.kaapana(d)tpl.org
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka'al5iki Kula, Ka'al5iki, Ka'u, Hawaii Island
To Whom it May Concern,
I would like to express strong support for the acquisition of Ka'al5iki Kula lands by the PONC
fund. I am the first generation of my family to settle on Hawaii Island and although a relative
newcomer(46 years here),this island occupies my heart space.A big part of that space resides
in the Hawaiian cultural practices I've experienced over the years. This cultural space and many
spaces like it hold the key to the well-being of the island and the humans who reside here.
Mahalo nui for the efforts to preserve Ka'al5iki Kula,
Jan Wizinowich
Sugg.26-05
_o
� P A L A M A
January 23, 2026
Re: Support for the Protection and Purchase of Ka'alaiki Kula, Ka'alaiki, Ka'u,
Hawai'i Island
To Whom It May Concern,
Palama Foundation strongly supports the Ka'u community, Edith Kanaka'ole
Foundation, and Trust for Public Land's effort to purchase and permanently
protect Ka'alaiki Kula, approximately 1,600 acres of culturally and ecologically
significant lands in Ka'alaiki, Ka'u, Hawai'i Island.
Palama Foundation is a Hawaii-based philanthropic organization committed to
the long-term protection of 'aina, the perpetuation of Indigenous knowledge
systems, and the stewardship of places that hold deep cultural, historical, and
environmental significance. Our mission aligns closely with the vision for Ka'alaiki
Kula, where the preservation of the full ahupua'a supports cultural education,
ecological restoration, and the intergenerational transmission of'ike Hawaii.
Ka'alaiki Kula spans from Highway 11 on the makai side to Ka'alaiki Road on the
mauka side, forming a critical corridor within the ahupua'a. Protecting these
lands ensures that this intact landscape can continue to function as a living
cultural classroom, demonstrating traditional Hawaiian land management
practices while safeguarding invaluable cultural and archaeological sites,
including the historic railroad trestle and 'Imakakaloa Heiau—one of only two
intact hula heiau remaining in the Hawaiian Islands.
If Ka'aWki Kula were to be developed, the impacts would be irreversible.
Development would threaten the integrity of sacred sites, disrupt cultural
practices tied to place, fragment native ecosystems, and sever the continuity of
the ahupua'a system that has sustained generations. Such loss would extend
beyond Ka'u, diminishing Hawai'i's collective cultural heritage and erasing
opportunities for future generations to learn directly from the land.
Phone: Email: Web Address:
808-225-5602 palamafoundation@gmail.com www.palamafoundation.com
Sugg.26-05
_o
� P A L A M A
Protecting, restoring, and stewarding Ka'al Mki Kula under community leadership-
guided by the cultural expertise of Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation-will provide
enduring benefits. These include strengthened cultural education, restoration of
native landscapes and food systems, and the reinforcement of community
kuleana to care for wahi pans. Palama Foundation values and supports models of
land stewardship that are 'ike-driven, community-centered, and grounded in
ancestral practice.
Our vision for Ka'alaiki Kula is that it remains a protected and vibrant cultural
landscape: a place where hula, ceremony, education, and malama 'aina continue
in perpetuity; where 'ike is honored in practice, not just in memory; and where
future generations can maintain a living relationship with this sacred land.
We respectfully urge the approval and support of this acquisition and commend
Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation and Trust for Public Land for their commitment to
protecting Ka'alMki Kula for the benefit of the people of Hawaii, now and into the
future.
Mahalo nui loa for the opportunity to express our support.
Me ke aloha,
Pele Kaio
Founder & President
Palama Foundation Inc.
Phone: Email: r Web Address:
808-225-5602 polamafoundation@gmail.com www.palamafoundation.com
Sugg.26-05
(Zhui mdlama
i ke ala `ulili
e h0'oMAU i ke kuamo`o pono
January 23, 2026
Trust for Public Land
1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka`alaiki Kula, Ka`alaiki, Ka`u,
Hawaii Island
To Whom it May Concern,
I, Haley Kailiehu, strongly supports the Ka`u community, Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation,
and Trust for Public Land's effort to purchase and protect Ka`alaiki Kula (approximately
1,600 acres) in Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii Island.
Ka`alaiki Kula runs between highway 11 on the makai side and Ka`alaiki Road on the
mauka side. Protecting the kula lands would ensure the entire ahupua`a is preserved,
allowing this area to serve as a cultural educational site demonstrating the importance
of ahupua`a land management practices as well as protecting significant cultural and
archaeological sites including a railroad trestle and `Imakakaloa Heiau, one of two intact
hula heiau in the Hawaiian Islands.
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation is a Hawaiian cultural-based non-profit 501(c)(3)
organization established in 1990 to maintain and perpetuate the teachings, beliefs,
practices, philosophies, and traditions of the late Luka and Edith Kanaka`ole. EKF's
mission is to elevate Hawaiian intelligence through cultural education founded on the
teachings and traditional practices of Edith and Luka Kanaka`ole. EKF possess a high
level of Hawaiian cultural knowledge and skills relating to land and resource practices
as well as cultural site restoration, protocol, and ritual.
As the Director of Creative Development for Hui Malama i ke Ala Ulili, a non profit
organization based in Koholalele, Hamakua on Hawaii island. Our mission is to
Sugg.26-05
hui mdlama
i ke ala `ulili
e ho`oMAU i ke kuamo`o pono
re-establish the systems that sustain our community through place-based educational
initiatives and `aina-centered practices that cultivate abundance, regenerate
responsibilities, and promote collective health and well-being. In the broader context of
reestablishing systems that are in healthy relationship with 'aina, I strongly believe that
EKF's and Luka's roles in malama 'aina in Ka'u will further our impact islandwide.
Increasing our presence through community work in each moku (land district) serves as
a beacon of transformative light. This effort creates a meaningful, visible impact that
demonstrates a viable path toward healthy futures.
All the best.
Mahalo,
v
Haley Kailiehu
Director of Creative Development
Sugg.26-05
PROTECT KAHWoLAWE 10HANA
1733 Wili Pa Loop, B-1
Wailuku, Hawaii 96793
January 24,2026
VIA EMAIL:ekf(dedithkaiiakaolefotuidatiou.org
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation
1500 Kalaniana`ole Street
Hilo,HI 96720-4914
VIA EMAIL:kam-aela.kaapana@tpl.org
tpl.org
Trust for Public Land
1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Honolulu,Hawaii 96813
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka`alaild Kula,Ka`alaiki,Ka`u,Hawaii Island
To Whom it May Concern,
The Protect Kaho`olawe `Ohara strongly supports the Ka`u community,Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation,
and Trust for Public Land's effort to purchase and protect Ka`alaiki Kula (approximately 1,600 acres)in
Ka`alaiki,Ka'u,Hawaii Island.
Ka`alaiki Kula runs between highway 11 on the ina kai side and Ka`alaild Road on the ma uka side.
Protecting the kola lands would ensure the entire ahupua`a is preserved,allowing this area to serve as a
cultural educational site demonstrating the importance of ahupua`a land management practices as well as
protecting significant cultural and archaeological sites including a railroad trestle and `Imakakaloa Heiau,
one of two intact hula heiau in the Hawaiian Islands.
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation is a Hawaiian cultural-based non-profit 501(c)(3)organization established
in 1990 to maintain and perpetuate the teachings,beliefs,practices,philosophies, and traditions of the late
Luka and Edith Kanaka`ole. EKF's mission is to elevate Hawaiian intelligence through cultural education
founded on the teachings and traditional practices of Edith and Luka Kanaka`ole. EKF possess a high
level of Hawaiian cultural knowledge and skills relating to land and resource practices as well as cultural
site restoration,protocol,and ritual.
The Protect Kaho`olawe `Ghana is an islands-wide grassroots Hawaiian organization celebrating and
activating around our 50th Anniversary this year.Our mission is to perpetuate Aloha`Aina throughout
our islands through cultural,educational and spiritual activities that heal and revitalize the cultural and
natural resources on Kaho`olawe.We are the Kahu`aina (stewards)of Kanaloa Kaho`olawe. We have
worked closely with the `Ghana Kanaka`ole,since Aunty Edith named us an`Ghana for Kaho`olawe in
1976 and together with her daughter,Nalani Kanaka`ole,gave us our Makahiki ceremony and protocols.
We continue to work with the Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation to protect sacred lands on Kaho`olawe and
Mauna a Wakea and engage in their workshops and planning.Having worked with them for over fifty
years,we have personally witnessed their undying aloha for our`aina that has been formalized in
intergenerational commitments to realizing the ea(life)of Hawaii.We wholeheartedly endorse their
initiative to purchase and support Ka`alaiki Kula lands in Ka`u,Hawaii.
5ugg.26-05
These lands, formerly cultivated in sugar,have the potential to be restored with native species and food
crops under the stewardship of EKF. The efforts would allow Ka`alaiki to thrive as a productive part of an
ahupu`a rather than be covered over with invasive species and pose a wildfire threat. The development of
these lands would strain the infrastructure of the district, and transform the way of life in Ka`u.
Protection of the Ka`alaiki lands under the stewardship of EKF would contribute to food production on
Hawaii island and protect the Imakakoloa heiau, a valuable cultural resource for the hula community of
Hawaii Nei. The kula lands can transform into a model of productive agriculture and a thriving native
species landscape under community stewardship.
Mahalo,
OA�— -
Craig Neff
Senior Kua
Protect Kaho`olawe `Ohana
Sugg.26-05
di
PO *5—X Ea3O5 K----Ia, HI 96743 A Nqn-Prof'et Orga.-.izatian EfM 46-22075 3 9
January 23,2026
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation VIA EMAIL: ekfnedithkanakaolefoundatiou.org
1500 Kalaniana`ole Street
Hilo,HI 96720-4914
Trust for Public Land VIA EMAIL: kamuela.kaapana@tpi.org
1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Honolulu,Hawaii 96913
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka`alaiki Kula,
Ka`alaiki,Ka`u,Hawaii Island
To Whom it May Concern:
The Waimea Hawaiian Civic Club strongly supports the Ka`u community,Edith
Kanaka`ole Foundation, and Trust for Public Land's efforts to purchase and protect Ka`alaiki
Kula(approximately 1,600 acres)in Ka`al5lki,Ka`d,Hawaii Island.
Ka`alaiki Kula runs between Highway 11 on the makai side and Ka`alaiki Road on the
mauka side.Protecting the kula lands would ensure the entire ahupua`a is preserved, allowing
this area to serve as a cultural educational site demonstrating the importance of ahupua`a land
management practices as well as protecting significant cultural and archaeological sites including
a railroad trestle and`Imakakaloa Heiau, one of two intact hula heiau in the Hawaiian Islands.
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation is a Hawaiian cultural-based non-profit 501(c)(3)
organization established in 1990 to maintain and perpetuate the teachings,beliefs,practices,
philosophies,and traditions of the late Luka and Edith Kanaka`ole. EKF's mission is to elevate
Hawaiian intelligence through cultural education founded on the teachings and traditional
practices of Edith and Luka Katlaka`ole. EKF possesses a high level of Hawaiian cultural
knowledge and skills relating to land and resource practices as well as cultural site restoration,
protocol,and ritual.
The Waimea Hawaiian Civic Club was established in Waimea(Kamuela),Moku O Keawe
in 1949. It received its charter from the Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs(AHCC)in 1959.
The purposes of our club are broad though focus primarily on advocacy and programs that
improve the conditions of Hawaiian people,education of Native Hawaiians, and kako'o me
ni lama i na Mea Hawaii.
The Waimea Hawaiian Civic Club's mission and activities are in line with and support
those of Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation.We believe that the work the Foundation has done since
its inception has uplifted the level of Hawaiian cultural knowledge and skills relating to land and
resource practices as well as cultural site restoration,protocol, and ritual.
It is our belief that the potential for culture loss through degradation of sites is extreme
should the property be developed by others who are not focused on preservation as is Edith
Kanaka`ole Foundation.That the Ka`u community,Edith Kanaku'ole Foundation, and Trust for
Public Land are united in this effort is a potent signal of the intent to auamo the kuleana to
preserve,protect,restore, and steward cultural knowledge and traditional sites. It is our further
belief that the impact of this effort will reach far beyond Ka`u's border for generations to come.
In closing,the Waimea Hawaiian Civic Club strongly supports the efforts of Edith
Kanaka`ole Foundation, in combination with the Ka'u community and the Trust for Public Land
to purchase and protect the Ka`alaiki Kula(approximately 1,600 acres)in Ka`alaiki,Ka`u,
Hawaii Island. Mahalo for the opportunity provide this testimony.
Me ka`__o++ is,,i'o no,
EDITH KAWAI, Pelekikena
Waimea Hawaiian Civic Club
RICHARD TEANIO JR
1/24/26
VIA EMAIL: LIKEKETEANIO(a)-ICLOUD.COM
Richard Teanio Jr
Kalamau Representative
465 Desha Ave
Hilo, HI 96720
VIA EMAIL: kamuela.kaapana@tpl.org
Trust for Public Land
1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka`alaiki Kula, Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii Island
To Whom it May Concern:
On behalf of the Kalamau `ohana, we strongly support the Ka`u community, Edith Kanaka`ole
Foundation, and Trust for Public Land's effort to purchase and protect Ka`alaiki Kula
(approximately 1,600 acres) in Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii Island.
Ka`alaiki Kula runs between highway 11 on the makai side and Ka`alaiki Road on the mauka
side. Protecting the kula lands would ensure the entire ahupua`a is preserved, allowing this
area to serve as a cultural educational site demonstrating the importance of ahupua`a land
management practices as well as protecting significant cultural and archaeological sites
including a railroad trestle and `Imakakaloa Heiau, one of two intact hula heiau in the Hawaiian
Islands.
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation is a Hawaiian cultural-based non-profit 501(c)(3) organization
established in 1990 to maintain and perpetuate the teachings, beliefs, practices, philosophies,
and traditions of the late Luka and Edith Kanaka`ole. EKF's mission is to elevate Hawaiian
intelligence through cultural education founded on the teachings and traditional practices of
Edith and Luka Kanaka`ole. EKF possess a high level of Hawaiian cultural knowledge and skills
relating to land and resource practices as well as cultural site restoration, protocol, and ritual.
Me ka mahalo nui,
_R� -
Richard Teanio r,
Kalamau Representative
Sugg.26-05
Letter of Support for the Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation and the Protection of
Ka`alaiki Kula
Aloha nui kakou,
My name is E. Makahiapo Cashman, and I serve as the Director of Ka Papa Lo`i `O
Kanewai and Ka Papa Lo`i `O Punalu`u at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Our
`ohana are mahi`ai kalo, kumu, caretakers of iwi kupuna, and cultural practitioners who
engage daily in traditional Hawaiian practices grounded in `aina, genealogy, and
kuleana.
I write in strong support of the Kau community, the Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation (EKF),
and the Trust for Public Land's efforts to purchase and permanently protect Ka`alaiki
Kula—approximately 1,600 acres of culturally significant land in Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii
Island.
Ka`alaiki Kula extends between Highway 11 on the makai side and Ka`alaiki Road on
the mauka side. Protecting these kula lands is essential to preserving the integrity of the
entire ahupua`a. This area holds immense cultural, educational, and archaeological
significance, including a historic railroad trestle and `Imakakaloa Heiau—one of only two
intact hula heiau remaining in the Hawaiian Islands.
The Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation is uniquely qualified to care for this place. Established
in 1990, EKF is a Hawaiian cultural-based nonprofit organization dedicated to
maintaining and perpetuating the teachings, practices, philosophies, and `ike of Edith
and Luka Kanaka`ole. EKF's mission to elevate Hawaiian intelligence through culturally
grounded education is not abstract—it is lived through decades of land stewardship,
cultural protocol, ritual practice, and intergenerational teaching.
At the University of Hawaii at Manoa, our Io`i malama more than seventy Hawaiian kalo
varieties. Our work depends deeply on the teachings and guidance of EKF. As mahi`ai
kalo, kumu, and practitioners, we rely on EKF's `ike in land and resource practices,
cultural site restoration, and ceremonial protocol. Their teachings are part of our daily
practice and ongoing conversations as we work to understand our responsibilities to
place and future generations.
For us, Ka`alaiki Kula is kupuna. It is a genealogical elder—holding vast `ike and
patiently waiting for us to return and learn. The loss of Ka`alaiki Kula would be the loss
of a matriarch. It would serve as a living classroom that teaches through landscape,
Sugg.26-05
presence, and practice. There are very few places that hold this depth of knowledge,
and even fewer `ohana capable of caring for it in the way it deserves.
If Ka`alaiki Kula were developed, the loss would extend far beyond a single parcel of
land. Organizations like ours—who depend on EKF's teachings and places like Ka`alaiki
to ground our work—would lose an irreplaceable source of understanding. Without
Ka`alaiki, we lose pathways to our mo`olelo, our genealogies, and our ability to teach
our children through place.
Our keiki would physically lose this knowledge. They would be disconnected from
kupuna, from `aina, and from Ka`alaiki itself.
I have personally witnessed the growth of the EKF `ohana across more than five
generations. I was a student of Luka Kanaka`ole and vividly remember preparing an imu
and black pig for ceremony. In the 1980s, I studied under Edith and Pua Kanahele and
worked Io`i kalo in Waipi`o Valley for the first time—an experience that shaped my life as
a mahi`ai kalo. These places and these teachers continue to guide my work daily, as
they do for many of us who have had the honor of learning from these kumu.
Ka Papa Lo`i `O Kanewai at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, along with our `ohana
Cashman, fully supports placing Ka`alaiki Kula and `Imakakaloa Heiau into the
permanent care of the Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation. The generational knowledge held
within this `ohana offers profound insight and guidance for our Iahui now and into the
future.
Protecting Ka`alaiki Kula is not simply land preservation—it is the protection of `ike,
genealogy, and continuity.
Ola EKF.
Me ke aloha nui,
i
E. Makahiapo Cashman
Director, Ka Papa Lo`i `O Kanewai & Ka Papa Lo`i `O Punalu`u
University of Hawaii at Manoa
Sugg.26-05
January 23, 2026
VIA EMAIL: ekf(a)-edithkanakaolefoundation.org
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation
1500 Kalaniana`ole Street
Hilo, HI 96720-4914
VIA EMAIL: kamuela.kaapana@tpl.org
Trust for Public Land
1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka`alaiki Kula, Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii Island
To Whom it May Concern,
I, Kalei Nihipali Cosma strongly support the Ka`u community, Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation, and
Trust for Public Land's effort to purchase and protect Ka`alaiki Kula (approximately 1,600 acres)
in Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii Island.
Ka`alaiki Kula runs between highway 11 on the makai side and Ka`alaiki Road on the mauka
side. Protecting the kula lands would ensure the entire ahupua`a is preserved, allowing this
area to serve as a cultural educational site demonstrating the importance of ahupua`a land
management practices as well as protecting significant cultural and archaeological sites
including a railroad trestle and `Imakakaloa Heiau, one of two intact hula heiau in the Hawaiian
Islands.
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation is a Hawaiian cultural-based non-profit 501(c)(3) organization
established in 1990 to maintain and perpetuate the teachings, beliefs, practices, philosophies,
and traditions of the late Luka and Edith Kanaka`ole. EKF's mission is to elevate Hawaiian
intelligence through cultural education founded on the teachings and traditional practices of
Edith and Luka Kanaka`ole. EKF possess a high level of Hawaiian cultural knowledge and skills
relating to land and resource practices as well as cultural site restoration, protocol, and ritual.
I am a former Hawaiian Language Immersion teacher for 15 years, and am currently a Hawaiian
Culture Based educator at a native Hawaiian educational institution. The Edith Kanaka`ole
foundation has helped me as an educational practitioner to see knowledge systems of my
kupuna (ancestors) as both rigorous and relevant to modern science and placed based
phenomena and way of knowing. By attenting various workshops and events sponsored by the
Edith Kanaka`ole foundation, I have both affirmed and reinvigorated my teaching and coaching
abilities.
My maiden name is Nihipali, and my `ohana come from Kalawao, Molokai. My married name is
Cosma/Waiwai`ole. My husbands `ohana is from Hana, Although I do not have any direct tie to
Ka`u or Ka`alaiki, I know that genealogically,that Hana, Maui and Moku o Keawe, Hawaii are
tightly entwined through geopolitical ties from the past. These political concerns of the past had
to do much with `aina or land acquisition. Today, any opportunity that reveals itself that would
re-engage kama `aina or people genealogically tied back to thei lands. Is a win. Lanakila! It is a
win because people begin to learn to aloha or bring love and attention back to reviving the land.
Sugg.26-05
As people begin to love and engage back to the land, life flourishes not just for native
Hawaiians, but for everyone living in Hawaii. The kupuna words of wisdom states: "Ua ola loko
i ke aloha."
Were there is love/engagement, there is life. I believe that if Ka`alaiki, Ka`u is allowed into the
hands of the Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation, life/ola will continue to be restored and flourish there.
It is a well documented fact, that when `aina is developed and bought for commercial purposes,
conflict begins. First and foremost with relationships between people. With Ka`Us tight knit
community, getting their voice as to how their `aina should be stewarded should be priority.
Secondly, relationship with the natural resources become unbalanced when development
happens. Much of Ka`u families are fisher people, farmer people. Commercial development will
throw off the balance of the symbiotic relationship between people and natural resources.
As I continue to seek opportunities to learn and grow, and engage with the Edith Kanaka`ole
Foundation for education, I foresee learning more about the `aina of Ka`u, and perhaps see the
connections within my own mo`oku`auhau/genealogy. I hope to see a flourishing and vibrant
revitalization of this space, one that allows for others to learn and take part of what it has to
share with all of us. I have continued faith in the Edith Kanaka`ole Foundations` mission and
vision of helping native Hawaiian educators, and practitioners of all nations in realizing the
authentically valuable contributions they have in making our world a more sustainable and
inclusive place to dwell together in harmony.
Mahalo,
Kalei Nihipali Cosma
Community Member
Sugg.26-05
From: Alizon Atkins
Current member of Kuku'ena of Unukupukupu Halau
Hawaiii Community College
Retired Teacher at Hawaii Community College
Mentor for STEMS2 program UH Manoa
01/24/2026
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka'alaiki Kula, Ka`alaiki, Ka'u, Hawaii Island
To Whom it May Concern,
I, Alizon Atkins strongly supports the Ka'u community, Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation, and Trust
for Public Land's effort to purchase and protect Ka'alaiki Kula (approximately 1,600 acres) in
Ka`alaiki, Ka'u, Hawaii Island.
Ka'alaiki Kula runs between highway 11 on the makai side and Ka`alaiki Road on the mauka
side. Protecting the kula lands would ensure the entire ahupua`a is preserved, allowing this
area to serve as a cultural educational site demonstrating the importance of ahupua`a land
management practices as well as protecting significant cultural and archaeological sites
including a railroad trestle and `Imakakaloa Heiau, one of two intact hula heiau in the Hawaiian
Islands.
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation is a Hawaiian cultural-based non-profit 501(c)(3) organization
established in 1990 to maintain and perpetuate the teachings, beliefs, practices, philosophies,
and traditions of the late Luka and Edith Kanaka`ole. EKF's mission is to elevate Hawaiian
intelligence through cultural education founded on the teachings and traditional practices of
Edith and Luka Kanaka`ole. EKF possesses a high level of Hawaiian cultural knowledge and
skills relating to land and resource practices as well as cultural site restoration, protocol, and
ritual.
My Hula halau Kuku'ena was invited to Ka'alaiki Kula, Ka`alaiki, Ka'u. We were focusing on
mele from Ka'u at the time and the visit was instrumental in connecting us to that land. After
protocol we helped to malama the area, thereby putting our hands into the land and helping to
care for it. Our halau has ties to the Kanakaole hula 'ohana and we were honored to participate.
I have had many instances where EKF has helped me in my education and connection to
Hawaiian Culture. I took part in some of the Papaku Makawalu conferences. I have taken
classes, conferred with Aunty Pua Kanahele on resources to use in my classroom and our
STEMS2 program has hosted members of EKF as honored guest speakers. I also recently
joined a visiting group that helped to malama Haleolono Lokoi'a in Keuakaha.
Developing this property would be another loss of a culturally important space in Ka'u. This
space should be used for educational purposes and to further preserve Hawaiian history.
My vision is to see Ka'alaiki Kula, Ka`alaiki, Ka'u preserved so that future students of STEMS2,
Papaku Makawalu, Hula, Geography, and Hawaiian Studies have a wonderful place to learn.
There are many (re)discoveries of the mana'o behind Ancient sites. This is mostly due to the
Sugg.26-05
fact that so many of our students are learning the Olelo Hawaii, the Hawaiian language. This
opens up a whole world of the research and mo'olelo, that is gathered in Hawaiian publications.
Then the connection to these places such as Ka`alaiki Kula, Ka`alaiki, Ka`u comes from Huaka'i
to these types of sites.
Please consider a PONC for Edith Kanakaole Foundation and help to preserve Ka'alaiki Kula,
Ka`alaiki, Ka`u,
Mahalo,
Alizon Atkins
Kukuena , Hawaii Community College
Sugg.26-05
VIA EMAIL: ekf(abedithkanakaolefoundation.org
Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation
1500 Kalaniana'ole Street
Hilo, HI 96720-4914
VIA EMAIL: kamuela.kaapanaCcotpLorg
Trust for Public Land
1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Honolulu, Hawai'i 96813
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka'alaiki Kula, Ka'alaiki, Ka'u, Hawaii
Island
To Whom it May Concern,
My name is Serafina Gajate and I am writing to express my strong support for the Ka'u
community, Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation, and Trust for Public Land's effort to purchase
and protect Ka'alaiki Kula in Ka'u, Hawaii Island.
Protecting the kula lands would ensure the entire ahupua'a is preserved, allowing this
area to serve as a cultural educational site demonstrating the importance of ahupua'a land
management practices as well as protecting significant cultural and archaeological sites
including a railroad trestle and 'Imakakaloa Heiau, one of two intact hula heiau in the
Hawaiian Islands.
Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation is a Hawaiian cultural-based non-profit 501(c)(3) organization
established in 1990 to maintain and perpetuate the teachings, beliefs, practices,
philosophies, and traditions of the late Luka and Edith Kanaka'ole. EKF's mission is to
elevate Hawaiian intelligence through cultural education founded on the teachings and
traditional practices of Edith and Luka Kanaka'ole. EKF possess a high level of Hawaiian
cultural knowledge and skills relating to land and resource practices as well as cultural site
restoration, protocol, and ritual.
As a professional conservationist, subsistence hunter and gatherer, alumni of the
University of Hawai'i at Hilo and cultural practitioner, I have seen firsthand the incredible
work that the Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation has done in the fields of education,
conservation and cultural stewardship. Their commitment to uplifting and strengthening
Sugg.26-05
community and culture has been an inspiration to me throughout my life here on Hawai'i
island, and I can think of now better stewards for this special place then their organization.
As development has accelerated exponentially in the past five years here on Hawai'i Island,
our food security- already precarious at best- has become increasingly devastated. EKF's
plan to not only restore the heiau and surrounding native forest, but also restore the ability
forthis land to produce food and sustain the Ka'u community demonstrates their
commitment to community and 'aina. Please support their efforts to purchase this parcel
and caretake the incredible resources there into perpetuity.
Me ka mahalo,
Serafina Gajate
Plant Propagation/Restoration Assistant
Sugg.26-05
y1Y Y Op
UNIVERSITY of HAWAI'l°
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4 HONOLULU
K M.A MA COMMUNITY COLLEGE
FFn •AiNP�v
January 27, 2026
VIA EMAIL: ekf@edithkanakaolefoundation.org
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation
1500 Kalaniana`ole Street
Hilo, HI 96720-4914
VIA EMAIL: kamuela.kaapana@tpl.org
Trust for Public Land
1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka`alaiki Kula, Ka`alaiki, Ka`u,
Hawaii Island
To Whom it May Concern,
On behalf of Honolulu Community Colleges Hulili Ke Kukui Hawaiian Center, we strongly
supports the Ka`u community, Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation, and Trust for Public Land's effort
to purchase and protect Ka`alaiki Kula (approximately 1,600 acres) in Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii
Island.
Ka`alaiki Kula runs between highway 11 on the makai side and Ka`alaiki Road on the mauka
side. Protecting the kula lands would ensure the entire ahupua`a is preserved, allowing this area
to serve as a cultural educational site demonstrating the importance of ahupua`a land
management practices as well as protecting significant cultural and archaeological sites including
a railroad trestle and `Imakakaloa Heiau, one of two intact hula heiau in the Hawaiian Islands.
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation is a Hawaiian cultural-based non-profit 501(c)(3) organization
established in 1990 to maintain and perpetuate the teachings, beliefs, practices, philosophies, and
traditions of the late Luka and Edith Kanaka`ole. EKF's mission is to elevate Hawaiian
intelligence through cultural education founded on the teachings and traditional practices of
Edith and Luka Kanaka`ole. EKF possesses a high level of Hawaiian cultural knowledge and
skills relating to land and resource practices as well as cultural site restoration, protocol, and
ritual.
Sugg.26-05
The mission of Hulili Ke Kukui "is our commitment to actively preserve and perpetuate
Hawaiian culture and values. Through an array of comprehensive services, we strengthen the
college's educational programs and enable students of Hawaiian ancestry to succeed in their
academic, career and individual endeavors." A statement that resonates with the impact Aunty
Edith Kanaka`ole, Aunty Pua Kanaka`ole, and Aunty Nalani Kanaka`ole perpetuated in their
work at Hawaii Community College and the continued work of the Edith Kanaka`ole
Foundation. EKF has provided a wealth of`ike and professional development opportunities for
faculty and staff through the Papakd Makawalu workshop training over the last 15 years, which
we have implemented into our service to our NH Student population here at Honolulu
Community College.
It is with great honor that we provide our unwavering support to the Edith Kanaka`ole
Foundation , and Trust for Public Land's effort to purchase, protect, and malama the Ka`alaiki
Kula (approximately 1,600 acres)in Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii Island.
Me ka ha`aha`a,
r-actk t Ah4&-S&UV1-
Faith Kahale Saito
Honolulu Community College
Hulili Ke Kukui Hawaiian Center
Native Hawaiian Counselor
874 Dillingham Blvd.
Honolulu. HI 96817
fsaito@hawaii.edu
808-845-9112
Sugg.26-05
3&A WA m loans Lef aqTwnAa&-w
or
1/27/2026
VIA EMAIL: ekf@edithkanakaolefoundation.org
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation
1500 Kalaniana`ole Street
Hilo, HI 96720-4914
VIA EMAIL: kamuela.kaapana@tpl.org
Trust for Public Land
1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka`alaiki Kula, Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii
Island
To Whom it May Concern,
The Keli`i William Ioane Legacy Foundation strongly supports the Ka`u community, Edith
Kanaka`ole Foundation, and Trust for Public Land's effort to purchase and protect Ka`alaiki
Kula (approximately 1,600 acres)in Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii Island.
Ka`alaiki Kula runs between highway 11 on the makai side and Ka`alaiki Road on the mauka
side. Protecting the kula lands would ensure the entire ahupua`a is preserved, allowing this area
to serve as a cultural educational site demonstrating the importance of ahupua`a land
management practices as well as protecting significant cultural and archaeological sites including
a railroad trestle and `Imakakaloa Heiau, one of two intact hula heiau in the Hawaiian Islands.
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation is a Hawaiian cultural-based non-profit 501(c)(3) organization
established in 1990 to maintain and perpetuate the teachings, beliefs, practices, philosophies, and
traditions of the late Luka and Edith Kanaka`ole. EKF's mission is to elevate Hawaiian
intelligence through cultural education founded on the teachings and traditional practices of
Edith and Luka Kanaka`ole. EKF possesses a high level of Hawaiian cultural knowledge and
skills relating to land and resource practices as well as cultural site restoration, protocol, and
ritual.
Sugg.26-05
Y
It is the mission of the KWILF to establish practices that reconnect the kanaka, native Hawaiian
with the `aina by preserving and protecting the cultural, historical, and archeological heritage and
life of King's Landing, Lehia and Pu`umaile Park as well as provide proper management
protocols of land and water resources in these areas in order to sustain future growth. Similar to
our Foundation's mission EKF and `ohana work diligently to protect the authenticity of Hawaii,
its people and culture.
The KWILF is honored to partner with EKF Papaku Makawalu to develop a cultural resource
and place-based framework for King's Landing. This essential research serves as the cornerstone
of our mission, providing the foundational principles and management tools required to steward
and protect the `aina.
The KWILF's kuleana to steward the `aina transcends the physical boundaries of King's
Landing. Our commitment is rooted in the truth that Hawaii moku and the entire pae`aina is our
home. By establishing excellence in stewardship at Ka`alaiki Kula, we set a precedent for the
stewardship and protection of all Hawaii.
Residential or commercial development of Ka`alaiki would compromise the authenticity of the
people and culture of Hawaii that the KWILF and EKF work to protect. Such development
poses a direct threat to significant cultural and archaeological remains, of`Imakakaloa Heiau.
`Imakakaloa is a foundational pillar of hula intelligence and is the source of our future prosperity.
By protecting, restoring, and stewarding Ka`alaiki Kula through the community, our organization
will benefit from the fulfillment of our kuleana. It allows us to realize our core mission: ensuring
that the care of the land is led by those who hold a deep-rooted, ancestral connection to it.
Fostering a living relationship with the `aina of Ka`alaiki directly mirrors and strengthens our
stewardship of King's Landing.
Mahalo,
`Ainaaloha W. Ioane
KWILF, Executive Director
Sugg.26-05
Ka `Ohara O Honu'apo
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r-
,cA-iA EW&MM
January 28, 2026
Pubic Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Commission
25 Aupuni Street, Suite 1101
Hilo, Hawaii 96720—4252
Re: Support for the Protection and Purchase of Ka'alaiki Kula, Ka'alaiki, Ka'u, Hawaii Island
Aloha Chair Chang and Members of the Commission,
Ka 'Ohana O Honu'apo strongly supports the Ka'u community, Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation,
and Trust for Public Land's effort to purchase and protect Ka'alaiki Kula (approximately 1,600
acres) in Ka'alaiki, Ka'u, Hawaii Island.
Ka'alaiki Kula runs between Highway 11 on the makai side and Ka'alaiki Road on the mauka side.
Protecting these kula lands would ensure the entire ahupua'a is preserved, allowing this area to
serve as a cultural education site demonstrating the importance of ahupua'a land management
practices, as well as protecting significant cultural and ecological sites including a railroad trestle
and 'Imakakaloa Heiau, one of only two intact hula heiau in the Hawaiian Islands.
Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation (EKF) is a Hawaiian cultural-based non-profit 501(c)(3) organization
established in 1990 to maintain and perpetuate the teachings, philosophies, and traditions of
the late Luka and Edith Kanaka'ole. EKF's mission is to elevate Hawaiian intelligence through
cultural education founded on their teachings. EKF possesses a high level of Hawaiian cultural
knowledge and skills relating to land and resource practices as well as cultural site restoration,
protocol, and ritual.
Ka 'Ohana O Honu'apo (KOOH) is a small, community-based organization committed to
protecting the natural and cultural resources of Honu'apo. Our mission is "to restore, care for,
and protect the natural and cultural resources within the Honu'apo area." Utilizing the values of
malama 'aina, kupono, and kuleana, we work in strong community partnerships to preserve this
area for future generations. KOOH was formed to protect Honu'apo from development, and
worked to raise federal, state, and private funds to purchase Honu'apo in 2006. We have also
helped to nominate and assist with the protection of Kaunamano in Ka'u using PONC funds, and
are the co-holder of a Conservation Easement in Honu'apo and H-i'ona'a Ahupua'a.
KOOH received a Hawai'i Tourism Authority Destination Management Action Plan (HTA-DMAP)
grant in 2023 and 2024 to create and lead an intensive stewardship training program in Ka'u,
Sugg.26-05
Ka `Ohara O Honu`apo
-
'cA`tk
the Ka'u Hoa Pili 'Aina Training Program. During this time, we worked with EKF to bring
haumana to 'Imakakaloa to learn about cultural resources management. We have also worked
with EKF through loko i'a restoration practices, host events, and share knowledge. KOOH has a
great relationship with EKF, and we wholeheartedly trust that they are more than capable
stewards of this 'aina, and cannot think of a better fit.
Ka'alaiki Kula is part of the greater coastal watershed where all impacts mauka directly impact
the coastal and marine ecosystems. Development on these lands will not only increase erosion
and sedimentation deposits, decrease fresh water reaches to the kai, and create community
uproar, but it will also erase history. We look forward to supporting the PONC commission in
their decision to support the acquisition and protection of this storied property, and mahalo to
each of you for the hard work that you do.
Mahalo for your time and consideration,
CjqkM"II'
Nohealani Ka'awa, President, Ka 'Ohana O Honu'apo
Sugg.26-05
(;ZT)
MA.H.A Malama Ka `Aina Hana Ka `Aina
1/27/2026
VIA EMAIL: ekf@edithkanakaolefoundation.org
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation
1500 Kalaniana`ole Street
Hilo, HI 96720-4914
VIA EMAIL: kamuela.kaapana@tpl.org
Trust for Public Land
1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka`alaiki Kula, Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii
Island
To Whom it May Concern,
MAHA strongly supports the Ka`u community, Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation, and Trust for
Public Land's effort to purchase and protect Ka`alaiki Kula(approximately 1,600 acres)in
Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii Island.
Ka`alaiki Kula runs between highway 11 on the makai side and Ka`alaiki Road on the mauka
side. Protecting the kula lands would ensure the entire ahupua`a is preserved, allowing this area
to serve as a cultural educational site demonstrating the importance of ahupua`a land
management practices as well as protecting significant cultural and archaeological sites including
a railroad trestle and `Imakakaloa Heiau, one of two intact hula heiau in the Hawaiian Islands.
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation is a Hawaiian cultural-based non-profit 501(c)(3) organization
established in 1990 to maintain and perpetuate the teachings, beliefs, practices, philosophies, and
traditions of the late Luka and Edith Kanaka`ole. EKF's mission is to elevate Hawaiian
intelligence through cultural education founded on the teachings and traditional practices of
Edith and Luka Kanaka`ole. EKF possesses a high level of Hawaiian cultural knowledge and
skills relating to land and resource practices as well as cultural site restoration, protocol, and
ritual.
Sugg.26-05
It is the mission of the MAHA to preserve and protect the cultural, historical, and
archaeological heritage of Kings Landing; To help maintain the proper ecological balance of
marine life on the shoreline and in the surrounding waters off King's Landing; To educate and
increase the knowledge of Native Hawaiians and their families in the art of alternative
subsistence living. To create a cultural school in the King's Landing area to teach the children of
Hawaii cultural aspects of ancient Hawaiian living, which shall include, but not be limited to, the
following: Heiau building, Fishing, Farming, Lauhala weaving, Hula, Hawaiian language, and
Medicinal plants.
MAHA is honored to have partnered with EKF Papaku Makawalu to develop a cultural resource
and place-based framework for King's Landing, which was a requirement of the Department Of
Hawaiian Homelands Settlement Plan process. This essential research served as the cornerstone
of our community settlement plan, providing the foundational principles and management tools
required to steward and protect the `aina.
MAHNs kuleana to steward the `aina transcends the physical boundaries of King's Landing. Our
commitment is rooted in the truth that Hawaii moku and the entire pae`aina is our home. By
establishing excellence in stewardship at Ka`alaiki Kula, we set a precedent for the stewardship
and protection of all Hawaii.
Residential or commercial development of Ka`alaiki would compromise the authenticity of the
people and culture of Hawaii that the MAHA and EKF work to protect. Such development
poses a direct threat to significant cultural and archaeological remains, of`Tmakakaloa Heiau.
`Tmakakaloa is a foundational pillar of hula intelligence and is the source of our future prosperity
in Kings Landing.
By protecting, restoring, and stewarding Ka`alaiki Kula through the community, our organization
will benefit from the fulfillment of our kuleana. It allows us to realize our core mission: ensuring
that the care of the land is led by those who hold a deep-rooted, ancestral connection to it.
Fostering a living relationship with the `aina of Ka`alaiki directly mirrors and strengthens our
stewardship of King's Landing.
Mahalo,
Kelii William Ioane Jr.
MAHA, Kupuna Council Member
Sugg.26-05
�ca
04coa
01/26/2026
Via Email: ekf@edithkanakaolefoundation.org
Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation
15oo Kalaniana'ole Street
Hilo, HI 96720-4914
Via Email: kamuela.kaapana@tpl.org
Trust for Public Land
1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka'alaiki Kula, Ka'alaiki, Ka'u, Hawaii
Island
To Whom it May Concern,
Ka 'ohana Po'oloa strongly supports the Ka'u community, Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation,
and Trust for Public Land's effort to purchase and protect Ka'alaiki Kula (approximately
1,600 acres) in Ka'alaiki, Ka'u, Hawaii Island.
Sugg.26-05
Ka'alaiki Kula runs between highway 11 on the makai side and Ka'alaiki Road on the
mauka side. Protecting the kula lands would ensure the entire ahupua'a is preserved,
allowing this area to serve as a cultural educational site demonstrating the importance
of ahupua'a land management practices as well as protecting significant cultural and
archaeological sites including a railroad trestle and 'Imakakaloa Heiau, one of two intact
hula heiau in the Hawaiian Islands.
Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation is a Hawaiian cultural-based non-profit 501(c)(3)
organization established in 1990 to maintain and perpetuate the teachings, beliefs,
practices, philosophies, and traditions of the late Luka and Edith Kanaka'ole. EKF's
mission is to elevate Hawaiian intelligence through cultural education founded on the
teachings and traditional practices of Edith and Luka Kanaka'ole. EKF possess a high
level of Hawaiian cultural knowledge and skills relating to land and resource practices as
well as cultural site restoration, protocol, and ritual.
Ka 'ohana Po'oloa is committed to the mission and vision of the Edith Kanaka'ole
Foundation and we wholly support their efforts to obtain this 'aina to protect Ka'alaiki
Kula from desecration and to restore this 'aina back to its very important cultural
significance. Ka 'ohana Po'oloa is Akamu, Keali'i, Tamateo, Kahili and Kaleilehua Po'oloa.
Akamu teaches fifth grade at Ka 'Umeke Ka'eo, Kahili and Kaleilehua both attend Ka
'Umeke and Keali'i sits on the board of directors for Hui 'ohana o Ka 'Umeke Ka'eo. We
firmly stand in support of our kuleana to this 'aina, community and to the mission and
vision of the Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation.
If this 'aina were to be developed, we would have lost an incredibly significant wahi pana
and development will have desecrated a holy space cultural practitioners have utilized
for centuries and continue to utilize as a part of our cultural lifeways. Perpetuation of
our cultural lifeways benefits everybody.We need these spaces such as 'Imakakaloa
Heiau to be protected in perpetuity, for all the generations to come.
The restoration and utilization of this wahi pana would become a special place for
learning about'imakakaloa Heiau, restoring native flora and fauna and building pilina
with Ka'alaiki Kula. Ka 'ohana Po'oloa will attend restoration efforts and support
however possible.
Sugg.26-05
Our hope is to protect, restore and utilize Ka'alaiki Kula and 'Imakakaloa Heiau as a place
of deep connection to our practices of hula, maoli ola and cultivation of native plants and
foods. We offer our support and deep gratitude to 'anake Nalani and the Edith Kanaka'ole
Foundation for all the ways they have diligently worked to keep our culture lifeways
alive.
Mahalo nui,
Keali'imakamana'onalani Po'oloa
Ka 'Ghana Po'oloa
Sugg.26-05
January 28" 2026
VIA EMAIL: ekfCc7edithkanakaolefoundation.org
Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation
1500 Kalaniana'ole Street
Hilo, HI 96720-4914
VIA EMAIL: kamuela.kaapana@tpl.org
Trust for Public Land
1 164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Honolulu, Hawai'i 96813
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka'alaiki Kula, Ka'alaiki, Ka'u, Hawaii Island
E aloha kakou!
I want to strongly support the Ka`u community, Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation (EKF), and Trust for Public Land's
effort to purchase and protect Ka'aMiki Kula (approximately 1,600 acres) in Ka'alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii Island.
have been associated with EKF, 'Imakakaloa heiau, and Ka`u Hawaii for most of my life. I have also been an
advocate for responsible land management through my training in Natural Resource Management.
Ka'alaiki Kula runs between highway 11 on the makai side and Ka'alaiki Road on the mauka side. Protecting
the kula lands would ensure the entire ahupua'a is preserved, allowing this area to serve as a cultural
educational site demonstrating the importance of ahupua'a land management practices as well as protecting
significant cultural and archaeological sites including a railroad trestle and 'Imakakaloa Heiau, one of two intact
hula heiau in the Hawaiian Islands.
Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation is a Hawaiian cultural-based non-profit 501(c)(3) organization established in 1990
to maintain and perpetuate the teachings, beliefs, practices, philosophies, and traditions of the late Luka and
Edith Kanaka'ole. EKF's mission is to elevate Hawaiian intelligence through cultural education founded on the
teachings and traditional practices of Edith and Luka Kanaka'ole. EKF possess a high level of Hawaiian
cultural knowledge and skills relating to land and resource practices as well as cultural site restoration,
protocol, and ritual.
My Puniwai ohana have family land in Ka'u and have frequented this coastline for generations. It is always
satisfying knowing that this precious coastline will be protected and given new life and stewardship. As a
dancer for many decades with Halau o Kekuhi under the Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation I have witnessed the
dedication they have to our people, our 'aina, and our culture. 1 have also personally participated in their
caretaking of Hale o Lono and Laehala in Honohononui and believe they have the experience and dedication
to steward Ka'alaiki Kula. Sacred spaces such as 'Imakakaloa are unique and must be preserved and elevated
for the continuance of our cultural practices.
Mahalo�,,
lvBeYG�.I"cu�.rrG.�
Noelani Puniwai, PhD
Associate Professor, Kamakakuokalani Center for Hawaiian Studies
University of Hawai'i at Manoa
Sugg.26-05
YVise
Ancestors wise@wise n cesto g
info wiseancestors.or
January 28, 2026
VIA EMAIL: ekfCo)edithkanakaolefoundation.ora
Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation
1500 Kalaniana'ole Street
Hilo, HI 96720-4914
VIA EMAIL: kamuela.kaapana@tpl.org
Trust for Public Land
1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka'alaiki Kula, Ka'alaiki, Ka'u, Hawaii
Island
To Whom it May Concern,
Wise Ancestors strongly supports the Ka'u community, Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation, and
Trust for Public Land's effort to purchase and protect Ka`a15iki Kula (approximately 1,600
acres) in Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii Island.
We are a nonprofit NG❑that embraces a two-eyed seeing approach to biodiversity
research, employing multiple knowledge systems in the design of ethical, impactful
conservation projects. Through collaborations utilizing cutting-edge biotechnology guided
by Traditional Ecological Knowledges, Wise Ancestors seeks to be a resource and a
partner for Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities, honoring their responsibility to
other than human relations in the lands and territories they steward.
Because of our interest in biodiversity conservation along with traditional knowledge and
cultural preservation, we are very supportive of this effort to protect Ka'alaiki Kula and the
entire ahupua'a. Such protection will allow this area to serve as a cultural educational site
demonstrating the importance of ahupua'a land management practices as well as
protecting significant cultural and archaeological sites, including a railroad trestle and
'Imakakaloa Heiau.
We are also excited by the intention to rehabilitate the land by restoring native growth
that occurred 100 years ago, as well as the planting of food crops, and would be pleased
to discuss how Wise Ancestors might support such efforts, if there is interest in future
collaboration.
Mahalo,
Ann Pace
Executive Director
ann@wiseancestors.org
Wise Ancestors a 501(c)3 corporation, ElN: 88-1628390.
6_05 Donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.
January 29th, 2026
VIA EMAIL: ekfaedithkanakaolefoundation.org
Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation
1500 Kalaniana'ole Street
Hilo, HI 96720-4914
VIA EMAIL: kamuela.kaapana@tpl.org
Trust for Public Land
1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka'alaiki Kula, Ka'alaiki, Ka'u, Hawaii Island
To Whom it May Concern,
Aloha, I am Makani Gregg from Puna Hawai'i and I strongly and wholeheartedly support the Ka'u
community, Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation, and Trust for Public Land's effort to purchase and protect
Ka'alaiki Kula (approximately 1,600 acres) in Ka'alaiki, Ka'u, Hawaii Island.
Ka'alaiki Kula runs between highway 11 on the makai side and Ka'alaiki Road on the mauka side.
Protecting the kula lands would ensure the entire ahupua'a is preserved, allowing this area to serve as a
cultural educational site demonstrating the importance of ahupua'a land management practices as well
as protecting significant cultural and archaeological sites including a railroad trestle and 'Imakakaloa
Heiau, one of two intact hula heiau in the Hawaiian Islands.
Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation is a Hawaiian cultural-based non-profit 501(c)(3) organization established in
1990 to maintain and perpetuate the teachings, beliefs,practices,philosophies, and traditions of the late
Luka and Edith Kanaka'ole. EKF's mission is to elevate Hawaiian intelligence through cultural education
founded on the teachings and traditional practices of Edith and Luka Kanaka'ole. EKF possess a high
level of Hawaiian cultural knowledge and skills relating to land and resource practices as well as cultural
site restoration,protocol, and ritual.
I am the program coordinator for non-profit 501(c)(3) Pohaku Pelemaka and our mission is to protect,
perpetuate, and enhance the transmission of intergenerational knowledge and practices, Native
Hawaiian wellbeing, and natural and cultural resources. We hold right-of-entry s to both county and
Kamehameha School properties for cultural and educational programming so that these wahi pana are
protected and managed efficiently and sustainably. As an organization,we have been participating in
EKF workshops and teachings for at least 10 years. And I have been an'olapa hula'aiha'a for 7 years
(under the same lineage as Halau o Kekuhi) and I truly trust and know that EKF is most qualified
Sugg.26-05
community leaders in Hawaii pae'ama to protect and serve Ka'alaiki Kula which includes 'Imakakaloa
Heiau in Ka'alaiki, Ka'u, Hawaii Island.
There are so many significant benefits to EKF being approved. However,if denied the consequences will
be very complex and long lasting. The property will most likely be dozed, misused, disrespected, and
repurposed into something it was not intended for. Hawaii will lose another powerful, sacred and
irreplaceable monument which has the ability to save people's lives for generations to come. There is so
much evidence that human health,prosperity, and wellbeing is connected to their relationship to place
and practice. And such is this place which has one of two known hula heiau present. Heiau and hula
traditions have ways to heal a nation (biotic and abiotic) as it teaches and transforms people's perspective
and respect towards all things seen and unseen. If EKF is awarded,the benefits will be profoundly felt for
generations just as they have already done for Kaho'olawe, Maunakea, and many other places. I still
reference their work from 15 years ago, as Ike Hawaii is time less but ever evolving to the situations at
hand. I reference and revisit their work all the time till this very day. I even attended their 20th Annual
Papaku Makawalu workshop to which I still gained valuable takeaways for my own'ohana and
community. I use their work to teach about environmental processes, seasonality,function, ceremony
and ritual, and how to behave in a particular space and time. I am forever grateful for their teachings and
aloha as an'ohana and organization. Land preservation and protection rooted in cultural practices such
as hula also can create sustainable job opportunities especially in Ka'u which has fewer opportunities
than other places in Hawai i.
I humbly request you support the Ka'u community, Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation, and Trust for Public
Land's effort to purchase and protect Ka'alaiki Kula (approximately 1,600 acres) in Ka'alaiki, Ka'u, Hawaii
Island which includes 'Imakakaloa Heiau.
Mahalo a nui loa,
Makani Gregg
Program Coordinator, Pohaku Pelemaka
Sugg.26-05
HAWAVI LAND TRUST
January 29, 2026
County of Hawaii, Department of Finance, Property Management Division
Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission
25 Aupuni Street, Suite 1101
Hilo, Hawaii 96720
Dear Commissioners:
The Hawaii Land Trust(HILT)is pleased to support the Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation, Trust for
Public Land, and the Ka`u community in their effort to protect Ka`alaiki Kula. Located in the
ahupua`a of Ka`alaiki, moku of Ka`u, Hawaii Island, these approximately 1,600 acres represent
a rare opportunity for conservation at a landscape level scale.
HILT's mission is to protect, steward, and cultivate reciprocal relationships between people and
`aina that sustain Hawaii. Our priorities include biocultural ecosystem secologically
significant landscapes that are woven together with Hawai`i's cultural heritage, knowledge,
practices, and traditions. Ka`alaiki Kula perfectly embodies this synergy and is an opportunity to
demonstrate ahupua`a land management practices while also protecting significant cultural sites.
As respected cultural and conservation leaders, the Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation is uniquely
qualified to steward this land. They already care for `Imakakaloa heiau located on the property,
one of only two intact hula heiau remaining in Hawaii. Their expertise, in partnership with the
Ka`u community, ensures the preservation of this land and the perpetuation of`ike kupuna.
We respectfully urge your support for this acquisition, ensuring that Ka`alaiki Kula remains a
vibrant resource for our pae `aina.
Mahalo nui,
Dane Kealoha
Director of`Aina Transactions
Hawaii Land Trust
Board of Directors 2025
Jennifer Luck,Board Chair I U'ilani Tanigawa Lum,Vice Chair I Teresa Young,Treasurer I Rob Alston,Secretary
Lisa Grove Past Chair Neil Hannahs Randy Vitousek I Jocelyn Herbert I Joey Aquino I Beth Robinson
Duff Janus Mason Chock Tyler Gomes I Olin Lagon I Raul Pomares I Keali'i Papali
`Olu Campbell,President&CEO
Hawaii Land Trust 1108 Fort Street Mall,Suite 4,Honolulu,Hawaii,96813 1 808.744.AINA I HILT.org
Sugg.26-05
•
Blueprint
FORChange
Shayne Kukunaokala Yoshimoto, Executive Director
PO Box 4560
Honolulu, HI 96812
January 28, 2026
Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation Trust for Public Land
1500 Kalaniana'ole Street 1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Hilo, HI 96720 Honolulu, HI 96813
ekf@edithkanakaolefoundation.org kamuela.kaapana@tpl.org
RE: Support for the Protection and Purchase of Ka'alaiki Kula, Ka'alaiki, Ka'u, Hawaii Island
To Whom It May Concern,
Blueprint for Change strongly supports the Ka'u community, Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation, and Trust
for Public Land's effort to purchase and protect Ka'alaiki Kula, comprising approximately 1,600 acres
in Ka'alaiki in the moku or district of Ka'u on Hawai'i island.
Ka'alaiki Kula runs between Highway 11 (makai) and Ka'alaiki Road (mauka). Protecting the kula lands
would ensure the entire ahupua'a is preserved. Allowing this area to serve as a cultural education
site for the greater Ka'u and outlying communities will solidify ahupua'a land management practices
that include protection of significant cultural and archaeological sites, for example, 'Imakakaloa
Heiau, one of two intact hula heiau in the Hawaiian islands.
Established in 1990 as a Hawaiian culturally-based non-profit 501(c)3 organization, Edith Kanaka'ole
Foundation is purposed to elevate Hawaiian intelligence through cultural education founded on the
teachings and traditional practices of the late Luka and Edith Kanaka'ole. EKF is renown as being a
formidable pillar of Hawaiian cultural knowledge and skills relating to land and resource practices
that include protocols, rituals, and restoration of cultural sites.
Blueprint for Change envisions every child in Hawai'i growing up in a loving family, a nurturing home, and a
safe environment, and we develop and support community-driven services that promote the safety and
well-being of children and families. For Native Hawaiians, that safety and well-being originates in large part
in ensuring the integrity and viability of Hawaiian identity which is cleaved to the lands of Hawai'i. Blueprint
for Change is responsible for supporting efforts that ensure individual and family strengthening especially for
the sake of Hawai'i's children.
'O wau - me ka ha'aha'a,
! r
Shay nee Kukunaokala Yoshimoto, Executive Director
Sugg.26-05
29 January 2026
VIA EMAIL: ekf(a)-edithkanakaolefoundation.org
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation
1500 Kalaniana`ole Street
Hilo, HI 96720-4914
VIA EMAIL: kamuela.kaapana@tpl.org
Trust for Public Land
1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka`alaiki Kula, Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii Island
To Whom it May Concern,
My name is Hoaloha Westcott and I strongly support the Ka`u community, Edith Kanaka`ole
Foundation, and Trust for Public Land's effort to purchase and protect Ka`alaiki Kula
(approximately 1,600 acres) in Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii Island.
Ka`alaiki Kula runs between highway 11 on the makai side and Ka`alaiki Road on the mauka
side. Protecting the kula lands would ensure the entire ahupua`a is preserved, allowing this
area to serve as a cultural educational site demonstrating the importance of ahupua`a land
management practices as well as protecting significant cultural and archaeological sites
including a railroad trestle and `Imakakaloa Heiau, one of two intact hula heiau in the Hawaiian
Islands.
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation is a Hawaiian cultural-based non-profit 501(c)(3) organization
established in 1990 to maintain and perpetuate the teachings, beliefs, practices, philosophies,
and traditions of the late Luka and Edith Kanaka`ole. EKF's mission is to elevate Hawaiian
intelligence through cultural education founded on the teachings and traditional practices of
Edith and Luka Kanaka`ole. EKF possess a high level of Hawaiian cultural knowledge and skills
relating to land and resource practices as well as cultural site restoration, protocol, and ritual.
For example; EKF has been instrumental in the efforts to restore the island of Kaho`olawe
following decades of bombing by the US military. The efforts of EKF include both Environmental
and Cultural contributions to the restoration as follows:
• Cultural Restoration: EKF, in conjunction with the Protect Kaho`olawe `Ohana (PKO),
has been instrumental in restoring and rededicating old shrines and, specifically, reviving
the Makahiki ceremony on the island.
• Environmental & Cultural Planning: EKF provides research and consultation to support
the Kaho`olawe Island Reserve Commission (KIRC) and PKO in developing long-term
strategies, such as the Kukulu Ke Ea A Kanaloa culture plan.
• Ancestral Knowledge (Papaku Makawalu): EKF applies traditional methodologies to
understand the environment, promoting stewardship that aligns with indigenous
practices.
Their proven track record of environmental and cultural stewardship on Kaho`olawe
demonstrates that the EKF is the ideal organization to manage and care for Ka`alaiki Kula.
1
Sugg.26-05
The Ka`alaiki Kula area is an extremely culturally important area. There is a mulit-century
Hawaiian history in this area that was governed by the likes of Kalaniopu`u (1754-1782),
Kiwala❑ (1782), and Keoua Kuahu`ula (1782-1791). These high chiefs governed the land, and
natural resources of the Ka`u district. In like manner, the EKF will continue this long history of
aloha 'aina.
I have engaged with EKF through their cultural workshops, their many research publications, as
well as academic discussions and interactions with some of their personnel. EKF is an
extremely professional organization whose members dedicate their lives to environmental
stewardship and cultural knowledge and preservation.
The negative impacts of development on this land are immeasurable, such as, increased
pressure on the water supply, decrease in ground water, impacts from human waste
management systems, increased stress on the native plants and animals in the area, and loss
of culturally significant structures and features.
Having this land protected and restored benefits the entire community. Natural areas such as
this are essential for fostering physical health, reducing mental stress, and strengthening
community bonds. They improve air quality, mitigate heat, and manage stormwater runoff.
These areas provide critical, cost-effective environmental and public health benefits, as well as
significant cultural benefits.
Mahalo,
Hoaloha Westcott
Inde endent Researcher
2
Sugg 26 05
nsC.:F
K A W A I K I N 1
29 Ianuali 2026
VIA EMAIL: ekf(Ledithkanakaolefoundation.or
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation
1500 Kalaniana`ole Street
Hilo,HI 96720-4914
VIA EMAIL: kamuela.kaapanana,tbl.or4
Trust for Public Land
1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Honolulu,Hawaii 96813
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka`alaiki Kula, Ka`alaiki, Ka`u,Hawaii Island
To Whom it May Concern,
Kawaikini Public Charter School strongly supports the Ka`u community, Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation,
and Trust for Public Land's effort to purchase and protect Ka`alaiki Kula (approximately 1,600 acres)in
Ka`alaiki, Ka`u,Hawaii Island.
Ka`alaiki Kula runs between Highway 11 on the kai side and Ka`alaiki Road on the uka side. Protecting
the kula lands would ensure the entire ahupua`a is preserved, allowing this area to serve as a cultural
educational site. This is a vital to protecting significant cultural and archaeological sites including a
railroad trestle and `Imakakaloa Heiau, one of two intact heiau hula in the Hawaiian Islands.
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation is a Hawaiian cultural-based non-profit 501(c)(3) organization established
in 1990 to maintain and perpetuate the teachings,beliefs,practices,philosophies,and traditions of the late
Luka and Edith Kanaka`ole. EKF's mission is to elevate Hawaiian intelligence through cultural education
founded on the teachings and traditional practices of Edith and Luka Kanaka`ole. EKF possesses a high
level of Hawaiian cultural knowledge and skills relating to land and resource practices as well as cultural
site restoration,protocol, and ritual.
Mahalo,
C
Namomi McCorriston
Executive Director, Kawaikini Public Charter School
pookula.namomi4k-awaikini.com
3-1821_J Kaumuali`i Hwy
Uhu`e, HI 96766
Sugg.26-05
Darlene E Martin, PhD
EDU Solutions LLC
January 30, 2026
ekf C&edithkanakaolefoundation.or
Edith a o e Foundation
1500 Kalaniana`ole Street
Hilo,Hawaii 96720-4914
Re: Support for the Purchase and Protection of Ka`alaiki Kula, Ka`alaiki, Ka`u,Hawai`i Island
Aloha mai kakou,
I am writing to express my strong support for your application to the Hawaii County Public
Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission. This letter is written with
much gratitude for your familial commitment to the enduring effort of protecting and preserving
Ka`alaike Kula.
Yes, a few decades have past since I've had the professional opportunity to work with Dr.
Pualani Kanahele, her Papaku Makawalu scholars, and other Foundation staff members in the
redevelopment of resort lands owned by Kamehameha Schools. Through the collaborative and
collective involvement of others, commercial land that housed a well known hotel transformed to
that of the preservation of na heiau and establishments of Hawaiian cultural learning sites.
While time has distanced this experience, the process engaged and outcomes obtained in na
ahupua`a of Kahalu`u a me Keauhou in Kona, Hawaii remain with me. As Dr. Kanahele led the
effort for us to intimately know who were there standing before of us,experts of various related
fields were collaborated with. Research into Hawaiian references were conducted with much
depth,inclusive of primary research that validated culture,place, and heiau information. As
natural and vital as breathing is, cultural protocol were taught and performed establishing
spiritual connections with 'aina and ancestors,ensuring participant readiness and proper, safe
engagement with the environment. `Ike a`o, teaching and lear•Ldg, occurred simultaneously and
astutely shared in timely and diverse ways with key administrators and lineal descendants,
families,cultural practitioners,educators, and relevant members of the broader conununities.
I draw upon this direct experience from 2007 through 2016 to state the following.
First through its people, the Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation's knowledge and abilities so
steadfastly demonstrated back then, only continue to deepen and expand. The inherited, ancestral
`ike proliferates as next generation faun)y members step unto leadership roles. Their present
community endeavors and active research benefits more than us who live today. In their work,
life too is brought back to mistreated or forgotten cultural places that are vital to the quality of
life here. The way that knowledge is timely and respectfully shared with all ho desire to learn
more about Hawaii and the Hawaiian culture,inspires one to apply what is learned in one's
daily life,in one's practice. The generational and continuing ethos of Edith Kanaka`ole
Foundation ensures quality of performance linked to genuine and successful achievements. There
is aloha, there is kuleana.
Bugg.2&05
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation
Page 2
January 30, 2026
Secondly, as a resident of Hawaii,I am grateful for the Foundation's desire to engage with such
a long-standing commitment to Ka`u and to the late Nalani Kanaka`ole-Zane. From small-kid
time, when ever I am in Ka`u, there are feelings of oldness,longevity, and connection that I
respect. Ka`u felt like home too,even though I was raised in the upper, inland reaches of
Kaumana in the Hilo side.
Finally,mahalo a nui loa for this occasion to express my,observations and opinions. The time
taken to reflect and envision what is to come for Ka`alaiki was meaningful to me as well.
Na`u me ka ha`aha`a,
Darlene E Martin, PhD
5ugg.26-05
The Nature Conservancy, Hawaii and Palmyra Tel (808) 537-4508
TheNatl�re
(1
923 Nu`uanuAvenue Fax (808) 545-2019
CollserVallCy . Honolulu,HI 96817 nature.org/HawaiiPalmyra
Hawaii and Palmyra
January 30, 2026
VIA EMAIL: ekf(a)edithkanakaolefoundation.org
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation
1500 Kalaniana`ole Street
Hilo, HI 96720-4914
VIA EMAIL: kamuela.kaapana@tpl.org
Trust for Public Land
1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka`alaiki Kula, Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii Island
To Whom it May Concern,
The Nature Conservancy strongly supports the Ka`u community, Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation, and
Trust for Public Land's effort to purchase and protect Ka`alaiki Kula (approximately 1,600 acres) in
Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii Island.
Ka`alaiki Kula runs between highway 11 on the makai side and Ka`alaiki Road on the mauka side.
Protecting the kula lands would ensure the entire ahupua`a is preserved, allowing this area to
serve as a cultural educational site demonstrating the importance of ahupua`a land management
practices as well as protecting significant cultural and archaeological sites including a railroad
trestle and `Imakakaloa Heiau, one of two intact hula heiau in the Hawaiian Islands.
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation is a Hawaiian cultural-based non-profit 501(c)(3) organization
established in 1990 to maintain and perpetuate the teachings, beliefs, practices, philosophies, and
traditions of the late Luka and Edith Kanaka`ole. EKF's mission is to elevate Hawaiian intelligence
through cultural education founded on the teachings and traditional practices of Edith and Luka
Kanaka`ole. EKF possess a high level of Hawaiian cultural knowledge and skills relating to land
and resource practices as well as cultural site restoration, protocol, and ritual.
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is a global nonprofit conservation organization whose mission is to
conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. TNC started as a small land trust
protecting 60 acres of forest in New York in 1955. TNC has been working to protect lands in
Hawaii for people and nature since 1969. Through real estate transactions, TNC has helped
protect approximately 195,000 acres in the State of Hawaii. TNC manages over 40,000 acres in
fourteen Preserves in Hawaii.
In 2002, The Nature Conservancy established the 3,511-acre Ka`u Preserve on Hawaii Island to
protect biologically rich and intact native forest in and near the 61,500-acre Ka`u Forest Reserve on
Mauna Loa's southeast flank, one of the largest areas of intact forest land in the State. These
forest ecosystems provide sanctuary to 153 endemic plant species (including 32 known rare or
endangered) and support one of Hawaii's richest remaining assemblages of endangered forest
birds.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Duke E.Ah Moo Kris Billeter Dr.C.Tana Burkert Anne S.Carter(Chair) Ka`iulani de Silva Daniel J.Dunn Dave Eadie
Jan Elliott Matt Emerson Hon.Judith Epstein Dr.Alan M.Friedlander Benjy Garfinkle Sean A.Hehir Puni Jackson
Brett MacNaughton Janet Montag Alicia Moy John R.Sabas Bradley E.Smith Julie Smolinski Vern Yamanaka
Ihupani Advisory Council:Paul D.Alston Christopher J.Benjamin Kenton T.Eldridge Eiichiro Kuwana
Duncan MacNaughton Jean E.Rolles Crystal K.Rose Nathan E.Smith
Sugg.26-05
Founders:Samuel A.Cooke Herbert C.Cornuelle
The Nature Conservancy, Hawai'i and Palmyra
January 30, 2026
Page 2
The Ka`alaiki Kula property is a central part of the Ka`u District viewshed and is significantly
viewable from the district's three county beach parks, Punalu`u, Kawa Bay, and Honu`apo, and
from along Hawaii Belt Road and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, an International Biosphere
Reserve and World Heritage Site. The proximity to nearby Kohaikalani heiau and the three large
heiau downslope at Punalu`u, Ninole and Kawa form a compact arrangement of significant ritual
centers that speaks to the importance of this area as a historical seat of power in the district.
Within the County of Hawai`i's Ka`u community development plan and community-based
collaborative action guide, the vision for future development being focused in the present-day town
centers rather than across the mauka landscape was identified as a core value. Edith Kanaka`ole
Foundation's work to preserve `Imakakaloa Heiau and protect these agricultural lands will
perpetuate that vision and ensure that these lands remain a source of sustenance for the future of
district as they have in the past.
Mahalo,
Shalan Crysdale
Director, The Nature Conservancy's Hawaii Island forest program
P.O. Box 1132
Na`alehu, HI 96772
Sugg.26-05
P44(j �Ilk
Arowc OLTURIF
STEt14rAAGSHIP
PO Box 4, Kunia, Hawaii, 96759 11 808-622-9026 11 www.agstewardshiphawaii.org
January 30, 2026
ekf@edithkanakaolefoundation.org
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation
1500 Kalaniana`ole Street
Hilo, HI 96720-4914
kamuela.kaapana@tpl.org
Trust for Public Land
1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Re: Support for the protection and purchase of Ka`alaiki Kula, Ka`alaiki, Ka`n, Hawaii
Island
To Whom it May Concern,
Agriculture Stewardship Hawaii (Ag Stew) strongly supports the Ka`u community, the Edith
Kanaka`ole Foundation, and Trust for Public Land in their effort to purchase and protect
Ka`alaiki Kula (approximately 1,600 acres)in Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii Island.
As an organization committed to improving the viability and sustainability of Hawai`i's
agricultural producers through technical assistance, resource coordination, and stewardship-based
business education, AgStew recognizes the profound importance of protecting lands that sustain
cultural knowledge, community identity, and future agricultural opportunity. Our work regularly
brings us into conversation with farmers, ranchers, and agricultural professionals across the pae
`aina including through our Women Farmers Network and we consistently hear the need for
secure, culturally grounded landscapes where community-led stewardship can thrive. We are
providing this letter on behalf of AgStew and informed by the perspectives shared through the
Women Farmers Network.
Ka`alaiki Kula, stretching from Highway 11 to Ka`alaiki Road, represents one of the rare
opportunities to preserve an entire ahupua`a system. Protecting these kula lands would safeguard
significant cultural and archaeological sites, including the historic railroad trestle and
`Imakakaloa Heiau one of only two intact hula heiau in the Hawaiian Islands. Beyond cultural
significance, the preservation of this landscape ensures that future generations can learn from and
practice traditional land management systems that continue to inform sustainable agriculture
today.
If this property were to be developed, the impacts would be severe: loss of irreplaceable cultural
sites, fragmentation of an intact ahupua`a, diminished opportunities for community-based
Agriculture Stewardship Hawaii is a DBA of:
Sugg.26-05 Oahu Resource Conservation and Development Council, a 501c3 Nonprofit Corporation
education, and the erosion of a landscape that holds deep meaning for Ka`u families and
practitioners. Development would also limit future agricultural potential and reduce the ability of
local producers to steward land in ways aligned with Hawaiian values and regenerative practices.
By contrast, community-led protection, restoration, and stewardship of Ka`alaiki Kula would
create long-term benefits for agricultural producers, cultural practitioners, and the broader Ka`u
community. For AgStew, this project represents a model of how land can be held, cared for, and
activated in ways that strengthen food systems, cultural education, and community resilience.
Our vision for this land is one where cultural knowledge, agricultural practice, and community
stewardship coexist a place where producers can learn from traditional systems, where
families can reconnect to ancestral landscapes, and where the integrity of Ka`u's heritage is
protected for generations to come.
Mahalo for your consideration and for your commitment to protecting Ka`alaiki Kula.
Sinc rely,
Dave Elliott
Executive Director
Agriculture Stewardship Hawaii
admin@agstewardshiphawaii.org
Agriculture Stewardship Hawaii is a DBA of:
Sugg.26-05 Oahu Resource Conservation and Development Council, a 501c3 Nonprofit Corporation
Attachment D
Identify and provide contact information of community organizations, land trusts, or
individuals willing to be part of this property's long-term management/maintenance.
The following non-profit would like to work with the County to facilitate stewardship with
local community members/groups. This model of community ownership through a non-
profit organization empowers community-grounded, community-led stewardship of the
property's (and the greater ahupua`a) resources.
D1. Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation
a. Mission Statement
b. Staff and Board
c. `Aina and Programming
Sugg.26-05
Edith Konoko'o!e Foundation
Mission, Board and Staff, `Aina,and Programing
Mission: Founded in the spring of 1990, the Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation is a Hawaiian cultural-based non-profit
501(c)(3) organization. Established on the vibrant traditions and rich cultural heritage of the Kanaka'ole family, the
Foundation's mission is to elevate Hawaiian intelligence through cultural education founded on the teachings and
traditional practices of Edith and Luka Kanaka'ole.
The Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation leadership structure can be demonstrated in our loko i'a
(traditional Hawaiian fishponds)design.
The concept is based on loko Va and outlines the various components of this system and
how each must function together for a successful environment.
The Puhiokaoka is a priest versed in all aspects of the profession. The Puhiokaoka is
p p
depicted as the current,the constant movement of water sustainingthe life of the pond.The
Puhiokaoka are the eldest living generation who provide a thread of constancy but allow movement and change. Like
the incoming current flowing from the greater ocean, the Puhiokaoka connects us to the ancestors allowing us to
tap into traditional ancestral knowledge.
The Kalaimoku are Councilors. The Kalaimoku is depicted by the pa pohaku (stone wall), which is the physical
structure of the loko providing a safe environment for all the po'e who dwell here.The pa pohaku symbolizes strength,
nurturing, and our connection with the kai and 'aina.The Kalaimoku are the directors of the board who protect the
organization from threats and are tasked with caring for its health.
The Ilamuku is the Executive Officer, the Waha `61elo is the Communications Officer, and the Kuhikuhina is the
Executive Director. These administrators work together to manage the daily activities of the organization. They are
depicted as the makaha. In every loko Va, there must be a minimum of two makaha for adequate water movement.
The makaha regulate the movement within the loko Va. The Ilamuku, Waha 'Olelo, and Kuhikuhina bring new
opportunities into the organization, develop and manage projects, and serve as a regulating system to provide the
optimum environment for the success of the organization.
The No'eau are the skilled workforce who implement and support our initiatives.They are depicted by the kai in the
loko,the element that supports all within the loko.The No'eau include the No`eau Ho`okele (Operations&Finance
Manager), Kia`i (guardians), Kumu (teachers), and K511<5`61elo (media specialist).
The Lehulehu are those we serve.The Lehulehu are depicted as the Va (fish)who dwell within the calm waters of the
loko Va. They are the students, the workshop attendees, the hula spectators, the cultural practitioners, and others
who benefit from our various initiatives.The Va are the motivation for the loko Va.
The Malama Ola are the donors who provide support for our initiatives.They are depicted by Kanehoalani (the sun),
illustrated in the overall shape of the design, which nourishes life in the loko allowing seaweed and phytoplankton
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to grow and feed the Va.The generosity of individuals'donations and the support of partner organizations sustain the
life of the Edith Kanka'ole Foundation.
Every aspect of the fishpond is needed to successfully raise fish,just as every individual is necessaryfor a successful
organization.The loko Va is a cycle within a cycle,each part playing an important role in continual harmony.
Puhiokaoka:
Pualani Kanahele
Dr. Pualani Kanaka'ole-Kanahele has retired from the University of Hawai'i and the Community College
System in 2013 with fortyyears of service. Kumu Pualani Kanaka'ole-Kanahele has retired as Kumu Hula or
Dance Teacher of the Hawaiian traditional dance in 2011, she has been involved with hula since infancy.
Aunty Pua has passed on her responsibility as President of the Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation (EKF) in 2012
with twenty fouryears of leadership. EKF is a 501C-3which mission is to elevate Hawaiian intelligence.
This retirement vein has seeped into all other phases of life with committees,communitywork,
broadcasting, etc.
Pualani Kanaka'ole-Kanahele is of pure Hawaiian ancestry and is very passionate about being Hawaiian
and living on these islands. This passion does not diminish with age therefore no retirement from being.
There is in fact an energy that pushes forward to increase understanding.
Pua is a mother,grandmother,great-grandmother, photographer, teacher, author, pilot, researcher,
adventurer,sailor,dancer, choreographer, chanter,thinker, activist, creator and a believer of things Hawai'i.
All of these experiences cast the mold of who she is and how she lives her life.
I am Hawai'i,this I know! Ua 'ike au!
Kalaimoku (Board of Directors):
Kuha`o Zane
Board President
Kuhao Zane, recently named CEO of Sig Zane Designs and founder of SZKaiao Studio comes from a
generational Hula family practice that grounds and informs his day to day career as a designer and
entrepreneur.
Zane, has worked with his father,company founder Sig Zane for the past 24 years, from sweeping sidewalks
to opening two Oahu locations,Sig On Smith and Kaiao_Space.With his design studio SZKaiao, Kuhao
employs their unique approach that blends culturalvalues with design.Theirworkwith both local and
international clients range from branding,art installations, airplane liveries and architectural way-finding.
Currently, Kuhao serves as the president of Edith Kanakaole Foundation, a non-profit that employs his
family's generational cultural insight through curriculum development,site restoration, consulting, and
publishing. Kuhao weaves this range of sectors and interests together as a platform to serve his
community.
Nalani Garmon
Board Vice-President
Nalani Garmon is the Vice President of the Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation,a graduate of the University of
Hawaii at Hilo with a B.A.degree in Religion and Philosophy, and resides at Hilo Paliku with her three
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youngest teenage children. Nalani is the Executive Director of Kap6ai, a non-profit organization focused on
activating the indigenous consciousness of youth, their families, and our communities in the areas of
cultural practice, leadership, performing arts, water-based sports and activities, and agriculture. Projects
under Kap6ai include 360Hilo,focused on perpetuating bodyboarding through competitions and free
community clinics for keiki ages 5-14. 360Hilo riders include young promising bodyboarders who compete
world-wide on both the amateur and professional stages. Hui Ho`auhuli,the inaugural project under
Kap6ai, is a youth leadership consortium focused on indigenous rights of our people and resources. `Opio
involved in this endeavor have testified at the County Council and teach other young adults how to write
and deliver testimonies.They also partner with other community-based organizations like Hui Aloha `Aina
O Hilo for cleanup and restoration projects, and Malama `Aina Compostables for a Zero-Waste future.
Haunani Rae Joaquin
Board Secretary
I graduated from Hana High School in 1985. 1 am a mother of four and was married for 21 years. I attended
Hawaii Community College at the age of 32 and graduated with a certificate in Hawaiian Lifestyles and
Human Services. I have been employed at Turning Point for Families since 2001. Turning Point for families
merged with Child & Family Services and provides Temporary Restraining Orders to victims of domestic
violence and court advocacy.We have a Youth Service Component for adolescents who are in juvenile
court and need anger management. My job title,"Program Supervisor", is to complete monthly and
quarterly reports to our contractors and grants, help with grant writing, attend community meetings with
other agencies, complete intake/assessments with appointments,facilitate men's domestic violence
intervention group, and perform presentations regarding Domestic Violence or Healthy Relationships to the
community.
I am currently on the Board of the Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation and have been a board member, advisory
member, or general member of this organization since 2002.
After living on Hawaii island for 30 years, I found my way back home to Hana, Maui. Herein Hana, 1 am the
Manager for Dining Services at the Hotel Hana Maui. I have also been working with the current hotel
administration to develop cultural and place-based workshop sessions for staff,thereby giving them the
capacity to authentically share this place with visitors.
Adrian Kamali`i
Board Director
Adrian Kamali`i is a trusted leader in strategic communications, government relations, and cultural
strategy.
With over 22 years of experience, he has guided organizations across the U.S., Pacific, and Asia through
pivotal moments, building trust between institutions, communities, and policymakers.
As Founder and President of Hawaii based Pae `Aina Communications and New York City based The Island
Agency, Adrian's work bridges policy, perception, and people rooted in a deep understanding of place,
culture, and purpose.
Proud of his Maui roots, he brings cultural fluency and political insight to help clients communicate with
integrity and impact.
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Kaua Kanaka`ole-loane
Board Director
Kaualililehua Kanaka`ole-loane (Kaua) is a 29yearveteran of Halau O Kekuhi whom has been ritually
elevated to Pi`ikuahu and instructor in 2018. Born and raised in Keaukaha, Hilo, she has grown to love her
community and native Hawaiian language that thrives exponentially here. So much so,that she became a
teacher and instructor at Ka `Umeke K5'eo Hawaiian Immersion School for nearly 10 years. She is a mother
of twin daughters and a wife to a community-loving police officer for 15 years. She thrives to keep Hawaii
Hawaiian and to fulfill the legacy of her late aunt, her matriarch and Kumu Hula, Nalani Kanaka`ole.
Kekai Perry
Board Director
Associate Professor Kekailoa Perry teaches classes at the University of Hawaii at Manoa on the
intersection of race and culture in education policy and emancipatory pedagogies centered on Kanaka
`Oiwi refusal and Guerrilla Intellectualism.With a background in Hawaiian studies and cultural practices,
Kekailoa applies Kanaka `Oiwi methodologies through community engagement. His legal education at the
William S. Richardson Law School blends advocacywith cultural practices that support meaningful, pono
research, emancipatory education, and nation-building.
Kekailoa is a cultural practitioner, storyteller, and Guerrilla Academic who focuses on building a pono and
beloved community. His current research explores Hulikua Refusal Pedagogy, Aloha `Aina Theory,the
Ideology of Purity, Guerrilla Praxis, and the Aloha Spirit law. His work tackles the complex relationship
between Hawaiian cultural knowledge and the settler-occupier system. He follows a path laid out by his
mentors,who ask us to consider: how are we actively transforming our lahui, and how do our individual
actions contribute to a greater purpose?
Kuhikuhina (Executive Director):
Huihui Kanahele Mossman
Executive Director
Huihui Kanahele-Mossman is a student and a purveyor of Papa hanaumoku-the practice of observing,
documenting, and deconstructing all biomes of Hawaii pae`aina and all such recorded data. Her practice
is Hula, specifically hula pertaining to the volcano and natural phenomenon of Hawaii Island, since
1977. She is presently a kumu hula for Halau o Kekuhi under the direction and mentorship of her
grandmother Edith Kanaka`ole, her mother Pualani Kanaka`ole Kanahele, and her aunty Nalani
Kanaka`ole. Her formal academic instruction consists of a 4-year degree in physics and natural science,
and a PhD from the University of Hawaii at Manoa in Curriculum and Instruction. She is currently the
Executive Director of the Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation. Huihui's current projects include KIPA, a
certification in Hawaii landscape and cultural ecology forvisitor industry service providers, Honuaiakea, a
community planning framework that uses `oli(chants), mete (songs), and ka`ao (stories/fables) interpreted
through the eyes and experiences of a group to understand the important resources that are crucial for
ecosystem stability and community survival(kapu)and the actions the actions needed to maintain said
resources (kanawai).
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115moku (Executive Officer):
Kal5ho`ohie Mossman
Executive Officer
Kalaho`ohie Mossman (Kala) is the Executive Officer of the Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation,a non-profit
organization established to preserve the cultural beliefs and practices of Edith and Luka Kanaka`ole and to
heighten Hawaiian intelligence through research and cultural programming. Kala is originallyfrom
Ko`olaupoko, Oahu, and currently resides on kuleana land in Wai`ohinu, Ka`u, on the island of Hawaii.
Kala is a graduate of the Kamehameha Schools and holds a B.A. degree from the University of Hawaii at
Hilo in Hawaiian Studies,Anthropology,and Art, and an M.A.degree in Heritage Management. Kala
specializes in restoring cultural sites for utilization today. He has been involved with the restoration of loko
Va, lo`i kalo, heiau,and kau hale. Together with spouse Huihui Kanahele-Mossman, Kala cares for
`Imakakaloa heiau in neigboring ahupua`a of Ka`alaiki, a hula heiau dedicated to Laka. Kala is a trained,
practicing kalai la`au (carver), an archaeologist,farmer, fisherman,father, and husband.
Waha `Olelo (Communications Officer):
Kalaionamkou Kanakaole
Communications Officer
Kalaionamoku"Luka"Kanakaole is a dedicated leader in indigenous resource management and
conservation,with extensive experience coordinating restoration and sustainability projects across
Hawaii.As Kuhina/Communications Officer and Project Coordinator at the Edith Kanakaole Foundation,
Luka integrates traditional Hawaiian knowledge into strategic operations,fostering partnerships in land
management,education,and native species conservation. Luka also serves as Haleolono Fishpond
Manager, overseeing ecological stewardship and research initiatives.With a background in fisheries
outreach and watershed management, Luka excels in multi-group facilitation, grant writing,and project
execution. Luka's work includes developing training programs for tourism operators,facilitating community
workshops, and conducting research trips to culturally significant sites. Recognized with the Champions of
Change Award for Sustainable Fisheries, Luka is committed to bridging ancestral wisdom with modern
practices to advance environmental sustainability and community well-being.
No`eau Ho`okele (Operations&Finance Manager):
Leina`ala Thornton
Operations&Finance Manager
Leina`ala Thornton is the Operations and Finance Manager with over 25 years of experience in nonprofit
administration, education, and Hawaiian cultural initiatives. Leina`ala oversees project coordination,
budget management, personnel, and event planning. She has served as a board member and officer for
several local organizations, including Ka `Umeke K5'eo Public Charter School(of which she is a founder)
and Na Maka Haloa, reflecting her commitment to education and community empowerment. Leina`ala
holds a B.A. in Psychologywith a minor in Hawaiian Studies from the University of Hawaii at Hilo with
specialized training in Hawaiian language, culture, and technology. Leina`ala resides in Waiakea Uka with
her family.
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Edith Konako'ole Foundation
`Aina
EKF maintains sites in Hilo, Hamakua, Ka'u, and Puna on the island of Hawai'i. EKF promotes the Hawaiian value of
noho papa, to know one's place thoroughly through generational learning and active practice and study.
Visitation to our sites is a hands-on experience in which students and practitioners will learn different aspects of
Hawaiian culture and traditional practices.We employ a traditional learning style, so participants should expect to
get dirty,wet, and tired. Group size is limited to 30; however, special arrangements can be made with advance
notice.An EKF facilitator must be present on site visits;therefore,facilitator availability will govern site visits.A site
fee may be assessed (site use fee may be waived under special conditions).To request a visitation to accessible
sites, please complete and submit the EKF Site Usage Request Form for approval.You may fill out the online Site
Usage Request Form or download the Site Usage Request Form and fax the completed form to Leina'ala Thornton
(808)961-4789. Once your form has been approved, everyone visiting the site must complete and turn in the EKF
Release of Indemnity Form. Information on the cultural protocol for visiting EKF sites can be found in Na Oli no ka
'Aina o Kanaka'ole,a compilation of oli and cultural practices.
Pa Hoaka
PA HOAKA is a multifunctional space that houses the following: Hale
- - - Kanaka'ole:The main office of the Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation, Halau O
Kekuhi, and Kula Kamali'i o Hi'ikeakaikamalama and partner school Ka
'Umeke Ka'eo.
Haleolono
HALEOLONO is the birthplace of one of Hawai i s premier ali i,
Kalaninui'iamamao,where we continue the aquaculture traditions of this
wahi pans. Students learn about traditional mahi Va (fish farming). Rockwall
" building and repair,fishpond maintenance,fish propagation, and innovative
limu propagation techniques can be learned at this site.Join us on the second
. .. Saturday of the month for the Haleolono Community Work Day from 9:00 am-
12:00 pm.This is an opportunity to learn about the fishpond,work hard, and
connect with the'aina. Bring tabi,dive gloves,water, and sunscreen.
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Kaupo
P KAUPO is a traditional canoe landing.This site is used for ocean observation
or kilo kai.
-r
Napo`opo`o
NAPO`OPO`O is our Hamakua site located in Wai i`o Valley where we
maintain traditional lo`i kalo (taro patches) and its highly sophisticated
;x traditional irrigation engineering.
ir
`Imakakaloa Heiau
`IMAKAKALOA HEIAU is our KA`U site located in Ka`alaiki, Ka`u. `Imakakaloa
Heiau is a hula heiau dedicated to Laka.A garden of hula plants associated
with hula is kept here. Hula practitioners visit this site to conduct ceremony
and protocol.
a<
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Edith Kanoko'ofe Foundotion
Ka Kakou Hana
E Ho Mai Ka `Ike:A commemorative quarter honoring the late Edith Kanaka`ole,venerated Hawaiian cultural icon,
kumu hula, composer, chanter, and a key influence in the Hawaiian renaissance of the 1970s has been released
into circulation by the U.S. Mint. Her designation as an honoree is an unbelievable honor for her family,foundation,
and people. Featured on the quarter depicting Edith Kanaka'ole is the inscription"E h6 mai ka 'ike,"which refers to
the intertwined role hula and chants play in this perpetuation of Hawaiian Knowledge systems.
The Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation co-hosted the E Ho Mai Ka `Ike Events in recognition of Aunty Edith
Kel<uhil<uhipu'uoneon5ali'i6l<ohala Kanaka'ole's contributions and legacy on May 5th and May 6th, 2023.
The May 5th Celebration was held for the schools in the Keaukaha community, offering workshops based on her
teachings.The public attended the May 6th Celebration at the University of Hawai'i at Hilo. You can view the live-
streamed portion of the even here: https:/Igo.hawaii.edu/XXT.
Hosted by.Edith Kanaka'ole Foundation, University of Hawaii at Hilo, Hawaii Community College, United States
Mint,Smithsonian American Women's History Museum, the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian,
and"Smithsonian Our Shared Future:Reckoning With Our Racial Past"Initiative.
Halau O Kekuhi: Halau o Kekuhi is the halau hula (classical dance company) and the center of cultural Knowledge
for EKF.The cultural beliefs and practices in which EKF is anchored radiate from the traditional practices of the
halau that can account for eight generations of kumu hula.
Halau o Kekuhi is celebrated for its mastery of the 'aiha'a style of hula (dance) and oli (chant). The'aiha'a is a low-
postured,vigorous, bombastic style of hula that springs from the eruptive volcano personas of Pete and Hi'iaka,
characteristic of Hawai'i Island's creative forces. Halau o Kekuhi has earned local, state, national, and
international recognition for its art.
The leadership of the dance company is currently transmitted through matrilineal succession, and with the passing
of Edith Kanaka'ole, her daughters Pualani Kanaka'ole Kanahele and Nalani Kanaka'ole assumed the role of kumu
hula. In 2007, Pualani relinquished her position to her daughters, Kekuhi KealVikanaka'oleohaililani and Huihui
Kanahele-Mossman,who, along with Nalani, became the kumu hula of the halau. Currently, the halau is under the
direction of Nalani and Huihui.
Halau o Kekuhi has embarked on a mission to promote hula as a classical dance. Hula is often categorized as folk
art in many settings.We feel this has its advantages, such as common sources of dance inspiration with other
indigenous peoples. We also think it has disadvantages, such as a watered-down version of both martial and
dance art forms. We want to place hula in the world of classical dance as a physically rigorous dance form on par
with modern dance, ballet, and the like.
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Hi`iaka ke Kaula:The Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation is thrilled to announce our hula book series, Hi`iaka ke Kaula:
Hula for Practitioners in 2025&Beyond,the result of years of research and discussion about the vital elements of
hula such as Hi`iaka, Laka, Kapo, Pete, Kane, Lono, Kanaloa, Ha`iwahine,and so on under the direction of Pualani
Kanahele Kanaka`ole and Nalani Kanaka`ole.
Eia Au E Laka, Iho Mai E Kapd: Who is Laka?Who is Kapd?A Collection of Essays by Kumu Hula for Hula People in
2025&Beyond is the launch publication in this series and is available to purchase in our web store .This is
the first book in a series of 10 hula books.
• Book 1:Eia au E Laka;Iho Mai E Kapd: Who is Laka?Who is Kapd?
"Eia Au E Laka, Iho Mai E Kapo:Who is Laka?Who is Kapo?:A Collection of Essays from Ku mu Hula for
Hula People in 2025&Beyond"is a beautiful expression made up of 19 unique writings about each
person's personal, professional,social, natural, spiritual,academic, novel,and reminiscent relationship
with and experiences of Laka &Kapo—primal hula elements.
• Book 2: MELE. Eia Au E Laka, Iho Mai E Kapo?
• Book 3: Kapo: She-who-holds-space
• Book4: MELE. Kapo: She-who-holds-space
• Book 5:WAI
• Book6: MELE.WAI
• Book 7: Hi`iaka's Journey Into Ha`inakolo
• Book 8: MELE. Hi`iaka's Journey Into Ha`inakolo
• Book 9: Hulihia: Pete's Evolutions
• Book 10: MELE. Hulihia: Pete's Evolutions
Kula Kamali`i o Hi`ikeakaikamalama: Kula Kamali`i o Hi`ikeakaikamalama Preschool is a comprehensive
Hawaiian cultural-based, educational preschool program that believes in the holistic approach to education: "In a
learning communitythat is steadfastly rooted in the culture,everyone has something to learn and something to
teach.Students, parents,and community are partners in the educational process and achievements of all."
Kula Kamali`i o Hi`ikeakaikamalama acknowledges the family as the foundation upon which a child is reared,
fosters positive values and morals,and strengthens ties within the community. Children between three years of
age and the age of compulsory school attendance are welcome to enroll and participate in Kula Kamali`i o
Hi`ikeakaikamalama.Students must be able to care for their own toileting needs.
KIPA: Indigenous Alignment Certification
Under the challenges of a global pandemic, people across Hawaii have taken the opportunity to turn our focus
toward building more conscious and sustainable communities.The KIPA certification program was created to help
visitor industry service providers(VISPs)deliver rich experiences that honor the culture, environment,and history
of our home.Acknowledging the harm that unregulated tourism has caused to our lands and communities, the
KIPA certification is a commitment by companies to engage in informed, respectful,and reciprocal interactions
with both the people and places of Hawaii.A KIPA certification will be given to VISPs who complete the training
and performance-based assessment and form lasting relationships with our Hawaii practitioners and places.
The KIPA curriculum will challenge participants (both individuals and businesses)to learn the deep connections
the people of Hawai`ishare with their landscape, understand the origins of those connections, and begin to form
connections of their own.
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PAPAKU MAKAWALU is the study and application of kupuna-methodologies to the observation,
understanding, and organization of our environment.This practice is grounded in the geography and
phenomena of Hawaii, laying the foundation on which KIPA is built.
WAHI PANA are all places throughout the pae`aina that have kept people physically and spiritually attuned
to the nature and genealogy of this land.As such,these places demand an appropriate approach by
visitors and kama`aina alike.
To obtain a KIPA certification, participants will train in the four pillars of kupa`aina practice, learning howto enact
respectful engagement with our wahi pana and communities.
KIPA I NA WAHI PANA: Educate our visitors to recognize and be conscious of wahi pana and approach it
with appropriate protocol and reverence.
KIPA IA KUAULI:Welcome visitors to participate in huaka`i with purposeful intent toward a healthy and
vibrant `aina.
KIPA I KE KAMA: Help visitors demonstrate respectful regard for kama`aina and be attentive to interactions
with the host culture, language, and way of life.
KIPA KUNIHI: Engage visitors to participate safely here on Hawaii Moku and return home with a healthy
respect for island culture and natural resources.
Standards for engagement were developed in collaboration with place-based stewards from across Hawaii
Moku.Trainings consist of 4 6-8 hour sessions.
Papaku Makawalu:
Haae wale ka hanauna lolo
• Papahulihonua,
• Papahulilani,
• Papanuihanaumoku
(Kumulipo—Wa `Umikumakolu)
Papaku Makawalu is the ability of our kupuna to categorize and organize our natural world and all systems of
existence within the universe. Papaku Makawalu is the foundation for understanding, knowing, acknowledging,
becoming involved with, and most importantly, becoming the experts of the systems of this natural world.
Papaku Makawalu connotes the dynamic Hawaiian worldview of the physical, intellectual, and spiritual
foundations from which life cycles emerge.The categorizing and organizing of the natural world was divided into
three houses of knowledge and the combination of the three houses of knowledge is Papaku Makawalu.
The three major houses of knowledge are foundations for understanding existence and our place in it:
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Papa huli[ani is the space from above the head to where the stars sit. It
is inclusive of the sun, moon, stars, planets,winds,clouds, and the
measurement of the vertical and horizontal spaces of the atmosphere.
Papahulihonua is inclusive of the earth and ocean. It is the ongoing
study of the natural earth and ocean and its development,
transformation, and evolution by natural causes.
Papahanaumoku moves from the embryonic state of all life forces to
death. It is the birthing cycle of all flora and fauna, inclusive of man. It is
All the process of investigating, questioning, analyzing, and reflecting upon
all things that give birth, regenerate and procreate.
AdIIIIIIIIIIIIIII
The Papaku Makawalu team offers a workshop yearly in January.Workshops explore the Papaku Makawalu
methodology through the lens of a Hawaiian culture topic. Past workshop topics have included, but are not limited
to mahina, Kane, Lono, kumulipo, and Haumea. If you would like to receive notices regarding the workshops,
please send a request to be added to our email list to ekf@edithkanakaolefoundation.org.
Papaku Makawalu images can be viewed at: https://papaku.smugmug.com.
Publications:All Hawaiian cultural and educational materials are created and/or published by EKF to heighten
indigenous Hawaiian cultural awareness.
CD
HA`AKU`I PELE I HAWAVI
by Edith Kanaka`ole 1979
Na Hoku Hanohano Award Winner for Best Traditional Hawaiian Album. Not available through EKF.
Currently owned by Hula Records.
HVIAKA I KA POLI O PELE
by Ha(au o Kekuhi
To listen to the myth of Pete and Hi`iaka is to open your spirit to the secret of eternality,to resurrect
ancestral memories and connections, and to engage them toward the betterment of our earthly life.The
myth of Pete and Hi`iaka was not intended to be read; rather, it was meant to be told,transmitted from
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generation to generation through storytelling, chanting, dancing, healing, and day-to-day living in a sacred
environment.
HVIPOI I KA`AINAALOHA
by Edith Kanaka`ole 1980
Na Hoku HanohanoAward Winnerfor BestTraditional HawaiianAlbum. Not available through EKF.
Currently owned by Hula Records.
PUKA KAMA`EHU—AN ISLAND IS BORN
by Halau o Kekuhi
The island child of Haumea (earth)and Kanaloa (sea) is born. Kama`ehu,the red island child, rises from the
deep in the ocean floor.
ULU MAU
by Ku`ulei Higashi Kanahele, PhD
Ulu Mau is a supplemental native Hawaiian plant guide created for the Ma`iola Indigenous Health
Curriculum investigating the pharmaceutical uses of native Hawaiian flora.
UWOLANI
by Halau o Kekuhi
A recording of traditional chants with a 28-page CD booklet providing Hawaiian lyrics and English
translations along with powerful imagery. 1999 Na Hoku Hanohano Award winner for Haku Mete (best
composition in the Hawaiian language) and Best Hawaiian Language Performance. Out of Print.
BOOKS
HOLO MAI PELE
byPualani Kanaka`ole Kanahele, PhD
The epic saga expressed in hula of Pelehonuamea,goddess of the volcano, and her youngest and favorite
sister, Hi`iakaikapoliopele. It is also the story of a family and their responsibility to the land around them.
Out of Print.
KA HONUA OLA
byPualani Kanaka`ole Kanahele, PhD
A collection of 25 chants from the epic tale of Pete and Hi`iaka.These mete reveal the richness of Hawaiian
genealogy, migration, poetry, and hula.Through skillful interpretations and ancestral memory, Pualani
Kanaka`ole Kanahele summons ancient wisdom and renews our profound connection to the living earth.
KUMULIPO WA`AKAHI
byPualani Kanaka`ole Kanahele, Ku`ulei Higashi Kanahele, Kaumakaiwa Kanaka`ole
To better understand our island universe, the Pa paku Makawalu team takes an in-depth look at the wa
`akahi of the Kumulipo.
KUMULIPO WA`AKOLU
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by Ku`ulei Higashi Kanahele
To better understand our island universe,the Papaku Makawalu team takes an in-depth look at the wa
`akolu of the Kumulipo.
KUMULIPO WA`ALUA
by Kalei Nu`uhiwa, PhD
To better understand our island universe,the Papaku Makawalu team takes an in-depth look at the wa `alua
of the Kumulipo.
MAHINA
by Papaku Makawalu Team
A Papaku Makawalu look at Mahina.
NOHO PAPA: KAHALU`U, KONA
by Papaku Makawalu Team
A Papaku Makawalu look at Noho Papa: Kahalu`u, Kona.
PELE& HI`IAKA—A MYTH FROM HAWAI`I
by Nathaniel B. Emerson
This is the epic story of Pete and Hi`iaka, ...a documentation of a mythic journey toward the sacred interior
of the Hawaiian psyche,of a people dwelling on sacred ground, and of a journey toward the recovery of the
sacred inherent in every individual.
THE HA`A CONDITION
by Huihui Kanahele-Mossman, PhD
Hula is art, nature, and on the surface, entertainment,and for high-performance classical hula dancers,
hula is physically demanding. Forthis reason,the Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation and Halau o Kekuhi have
produced The Ha`a Condition, a short guide written specifically for hula `olapa.
The Ha`a Condition provides basic information concerning hula `olapa, including ceremonial, lifestyle,and
kinesthetic habits a dancer should exhibit.We have made the publication available in PDF or ePub format.
This project was made possible thanks to funding provided by the Hawaii Tourism Authority through the
Kukulu Ola Program.
UNWRITTEN LITERATURE
by Nathaniel B. Emerson
Unwritten Literature possesses the timeless, unlimited depths and imageries of the hula tradition.
Wrapped within Unwritten Literature is a bounty of life experiences,from amorous indulgences of the
singing psalmists, including genealogies, reasons for exalting the chiefs, lessons of living in this land,
descriptions of the characteristics and uses of flora and fauna, relationships of the living and the dead, and
births and deaths of creatures of the earth.
Research/Consulting:The Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation conducts research and professional contractual
consultation in its mission to elevate Hawaiian intelligence. EKF has conducted cultural studies for government,
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private, and non-profit entities. Our research has taken us from the slopes of Maunaloa to the seas surrounding
Mokumanamana.Through our research,we can encourage modern land management practices that coincide with
that of our ancestors,as revealed in the kumulipo.We encourage the process of Papaku Makawalu, a method of
understanding our environment through our ancestor's perspective.We offer multiple workshops on this process
annually to practitioners, educators, land managers, and others from across the State.While it is important to
provide our services to our community,the goal is that our research will be understood and that Hawaiian
intelligence can be elevated.
Scholarship: EKF's scholarship program encourages and supports native Hawaiians toward higher educational
opportunities. It was the greatest wish of Luka and Edith Kanaka'ole for Native Hawaiian youth and adults to realize
the value of a Western education while maintaining one's Hawaiian cultural identity through cultural education.
The EKF scholarship is an annual award that provides supplemental financial assistance (This scholarship is not
meant to be the applicant's primary source of higher education funding). EKF assists students in higher education
both in Western and formal native Hawaiian institutions of education.
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Attachment E
Please answer the following 10 points by providing summaries and/or abstracts (rather
than full reports). Include, if necessary, citations or links to reference the documentation
related to the suggested site or project.
E 1. Questions and Answers
E2. Excerpts from "Restoration of `Imakakaloa Heiau, Ka`alaiki, Ka`u, Hawaii:
Redefining Ancient Structures For A Living Culture" by Konrad Kalaho`ohie Mossman
E3. Excerpts from "Ka`u Community Development Plan"
E4. Photos
E5. Willing Seller Letter
E6. TPL Transparency Letter
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Attachment E
1) How would this proposed acquisition or project benefit the general public?
Conservation of Ka`alaiki Kula will ensure protection and preservation of a cultural and
natural landscape in perpetuity.This space will not only showcase the beauty of Ka`u and
its majestic pu`u (hills) but it will provide a cultural educational space to better understand
our past.
Protecting Ka`alaiki Kula will return traditional ahupua`a management practices ensuring
protection of the natural and cultural resources and producing healthy foods.This property
will add to the community's effort in the protection of its watershed, creating a continuous
protected landscape from mauka to makai, increasing forest cover and watershed
resources.This protection effort also aligns with the Ka`u Community Development Plan's
goals to protect agricultural lands and open space, protect mauka forests and the
shorelines, and protect, restore, and enhance Ka`u's unique cultural assets, including
archeological and historic sites and buildings.
2) Describe anysignificant historic, cultural, ornatural resources on the property. Please
be as specific as possible and include onlya summary of documentation(i.e.,
archaeological reports, flora/fauna surveys, etc.)
While there are many cultural sites on the property such as agricultural features, ahu
(markers), burials, habitations and shelters the most impressive and culturally significant
site is `Imakakaloa heiau. Built by the rebel chief of Puna also named `Imakakaloa,this
heiau is said to be for hula and was built in the mid to late 18th century. It is the only
example of a hula heiau on the island and one of two still intact in the State.The other is
located on the north side of Kauai. Heiau hula are still being used today by hula
practitioners to conduct ceremonies and to pay homage to Laka,the patron of this
practice.The heiau has been cared for by the Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation for the past ten
years at the request of Mr. Olson and continues to serve the hula community today.
Historically, `Imakakaloa is noted as rebelling against Kalani`opu`u who later captured him
and was to have him sacrificed at heiau near Wai`ohinu.The honor of delivering the death
blowwas given to Kiwala`o the son of Kalani`opu`u but when he hesitated Kamehameha the
nephew of Kalani`opu`u stepped in and delivered the blow.This is seen as the pivotal
moment of Kamehameha`s journey to become M61 of Hawaii.The heiau is located in the
northwest sector of the project area not far from Ka`alaiki road and is easily accessible.
Some of the native plants are still found in the area such as `a`ali`i, `alahe`e and lama as well
as food plants like kukui, ulu and `uala. Much of the property had been used for sugar and
cattle grazing so remediation is needed to remove the invasive species and bring back the
natives. Native birds such as the`io, kolea and nene have been seen in the project area as
well as the`ope`ape`a (bat).There is also a perennial stream along the northern border of
Sugg.26-05
Ka`alaiki called Hi lea gulch.Ala rge kukui forest can be found along the southern border
where many of the habitations can be found.
A railroad trestle stretches across the`ahupua`a and is an excellent example of the
technology of the time. It was built using crushed coral and stone and stands 10` high in
some places. It was built by Michael Maurice O`shaughnessy, a well-known engineer in the
late 1800`s early 1900`s accredited with many civil engineering projects mainly in the bay
area but also in Hawaii.This incredible engineering feat is located near highway 11 and is
easily accessible.
3) Describe(and include maps if available)anysignificant relationship to the larger
historical, cultural, and/or natural landscape(i.e corridors, complexes, agricultural
field systems, conservation strategies etc.)
The most significant relationship regarding this area is the relationship the three main heiau
in the area have with one another. `Imakakaloa heiau sits at an elevation of 1,000 feet near
the northwest border of Ka`alaiki and Hilea. Directly north of it is Kohaikalani heiau on the
top of pu`u Makanau and directly east is the sacred site of Koloa storied coastal area known
for the large stones that give birth to the multitude of pebbles found here.Also,to the east
on a coastal pinnacle sits Ke`eku heiau. Ke`eku heiau is in a direct alignment with the rising
sun on winter solstice when the sun is the furthest to the south.This is very important in
that it validates the use of heiau in the determination and calibration of the changing
seasons.This is whywe should not look at heiau as a singular archaeological site but look
at them as cultural resources that are associated with one another and part of a larger
cultural landscape.Therefore, in order to truly understand the workings of a heiau the entire
cultural landscape needs to be protected.
In addition, protection of Ka`alaiki Kula aligns with the goals set in the Ka`u Community
Development plan which include the protection and restoration of Ka`u's unique cultural
assets.
4) Describe the level of urgency(i.e. the propertyis currentlyon the open market or for
sale and if so, for how long, there are current plans for development, the propertyhas
an active filed application for re-zoning/subdivision, is an area of high public use, etc.)
The trustees of the Olson Trust have an obligation to sell their land assets that the Trust
accumulated over the years. Ka`alaiki Kula is one of the properties that the Olson Trust are
interested in selling.Although the Olson Trust is supportive of Edith Kanaka`ole
Foundation's vision in protecting these lands, should EKF not secure the necessary funding
needed to purchase this property, the property may be sold to a potential buyer who's
interests do not align with the community's effort to protect its natural and cultural
resources.
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In addition, Ka`alaiki Kula faces other threats to its natural and cultural resources including
wildfire and/or lack of wildfire management. In recent years, Hawaii as a whole has seen an
increase in wildfire and the importance of establish ingthoughtfuIwildfire management
practices. In past instances in Ka`u, one of theta ctics of mitigating the wildfire is to
bulldoze the land to create firebreaks.Although the purpose of these fire breaks are to
prevent the spread of the fire,this type of action can result with the loss of native species
and the destruction of cultural sites.
Other possible threats at Ka`alaiki Kula include damage of cultural sites and lack of
property management.As mentioned, Ka`alaiki Kula includes various cultural sites,
including`Imakakaloa Heiau. Invasive vegetation,trespassing, and lack of management of
land and its resources all play a factor in the health and well-being of the cultural
resources.
5) Describe any special opportunities for acquisition that presently exist(special funding
available, etc.)
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation and Trustfor Public Land are partneringto protect Ka`alaiki
Kula.TPL and EKF will apply for State Legacy Land Conservation Program funding for fiscal
year 2027.
6) Have partnerships with other government agencies, private or nonprofit entities to
leverage resources(funding, grants, managing partnerships) been identified? If yes,
please describe.
Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation is committed to collaborative stewardship with various
stakeholders which include the Ka`u community, lineal descendants, and community
organizations, such as Ka `Ohana o Honu`apo,The Nature Conservancy, Ka `Umeke Ka`eo
Public Charter School, and other schools from Pahala and Na`alehu as well as Volcano
School of Arts and Sciences
7) is/Are the property(s)or property easement(s)available for acquisition?if yes,please
describe.
Yes,the landowner is willing to sell for conservation and has provided a signed Willing
Seller Letter(Attachment E5).TPL is currently seeking appraisal cost estimates to conduct
an appraisal. If an agreement on price and terms can be reached,TPL will negotiate an
option or purchase and sale agreement with the landowner.
EKF and TPL propose that the County hold a conservation easement over the property.
8) Are there any covenants, encumbrances, restrictions(i.e., association or
maintenance), or easements on the property?if yes,please describe.
TPL has requested a preliminary title report on the property from the landowner.
9) Describe any known hazards on the property(i.e., flood zone, lava hazard zone,
mudslide,pollution, etc.).
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No known hazards exist on the property.A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment will be
conducted.
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RESTORATION OF `TMAKAKALOA HEIAU, KA`ALAIKI, KA`U HAWAI`L
REDEFINING ANCIENT STRUCTURES FOR A LIVING CULTURE
A THESIS SUBMITTED IN PARTIAL FULLFILMENT OF THE REQUIItMENTS FOR THE
DEGREE OF
MASTERS OF ARTS
IN
HERITAGE MANAGEMENT
University of Hawaii at Hilo Department of Anthropology
May, 2017
By
Konrad Kalaho`ohie Mossman
Committee Members:
Kathleen Kawelu Chairperson
Keola Awong
Peter Mills
Jack Rossen
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Edith Kana-ka-'Ple- Foundation
UNIVERSITY
OF HAWA H
HILD HERITAGE MANAGEMENT
An t h-r,p.l ujy h7
U,,:-r,,C/a Hi—m',at H-I❑
Copyright 2017, Konrad Kalaho`oh'e Mossman
ii
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the Hilea ahupua`a. School records for the district of Ka`u report there were 49 students at the
Hilea School in 1865. The State-owned school lot at the coast in Ka`aldiki Ahupua`a was never
used for school purposes. The Hilea mill was closed by 1907, and in 1928 the Hilea plantation
houses were moved to Na`alehu (Mann and Bowen 1976), but the plantation fields in the area
continued to be used for sugarcane cultivation into modern times. Today only one family lives
within the Ka`aldiki boundaries. Although some old names are still used, many have been
forgotten, fortunately many have been recorded in land documents and maps.
Place Names ofKa`aldiki
The place names of Ka`aldiki are listed in the following table with simple definitions and
descriptions. TABLE 2. is derived from Lloyd J. Soehren's A Catalog ofHawai`i Place Names,
Compiled from the Records of the Boundary Commission and The Board of Commissioners to
Quiet Land Titles of the Kingdom ofHawai`i, Part 4:Ka`u (2005:14-16). It is important to
examine place names as they often describe an area and tell the stories of a place.
Place Name Definition Source
Kahalehuki—"...Oioina and The twisted house BCT 1:420.
ahua nui"between
Kapohakunui and Kihaopai on
Ka`alaiki/Hileanui boundary.
47
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Place Name Definition Source
Kahalehuki—"...Oioina and The twisted house BCT 1:420.
ahua nui"between Kapohakunui
and Kihaopai on
Ka`alaiki/Hileanui boundary.
Kahoenakapua`a—Between The paddle of the pig BCT 1:421
Papaloa and Kaumukukui on
Ka`alaiki/Hileanui boundary. The breath of the pig
Ka`ili`ili—A cove or small bay The small pebble USGS 1962.
noted for its abudance of
pebbles.
Kamakawili—Claim no. 7091:1 The twisted eye NT 8:405
by Naluahine is for his
"mo`o`aina o Kamakawili ma
Ka`alaiki."
Kapapakonane—"...a kauhale The konane (checker like game) BCT 1:420,421.
on the Kona side of the board
boundary"between Kaumukukui
and Paneenee on
Ka`alaiki/Hileanui boundary
Pu`u Moa—Claim no. 7091:2 by Green hill RM 1455; USGS 1966; BCT
Naluahine is for his "kihapai ma 1:420,421,433.
Puumoa ma Ka`alaiki"
Palahalaha—"Hileanui ends at Spread out sprawling RM 1455; BC 113 (3:265);
Palahalaha a pall above BCT 1:424.
Kapalimuku"
Pu`u Ndhaha- Cracked hill USGS 1962.
48
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Place Name Definition Source
Wailea- Joyful water USGS 1962
Kinihonu—Claims no. 7489 by Multitude of turtles NT 8:483,484
Kaele and 10217 by Muo for
"kihapai kalo ma Kinihonu ma
Ka`alaiki"
Kipapaloa—"...a kauhale Long pavement BCT 1:420
mauka of Pu`u Iki"between
Malumaluakua and
Kaumukukui on
Ka`alaiki/Hileanui boundary
Ma`akole—a point To be somewhat shiftless USGS 1962.
Malumaluakua—Above a pall, Protected by the god BCT 1:420
between Kihaopai and
Kipapaloa on
Ka`alaiki/Hileanui boundary.
Mountain House USGS 1962
Na Manua Ha`alo`u—A The bent over birds USGS 1967.
swampy area,elev. Between
5440 and 5880 ft. The
Kahuku/Kaalaiki boundary jogs
mauka around it.
49
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Place Name Definition Source
Haleolono—Claim no. 7093:1 House of Lono NT 8:432.
by Kauikoaole is for his parcel
in `ili aina o Haleolono ma
Ka`alaiki ahupua`a.
Hdnai—A point To raise or feed USGS 1962.
Hawaloa—A point Very filthy USGS 1962; RM 1455
`Ilikahi—Claim no. 10561 by Cut or shaved skin or land NT 8:484
Apau for an"apana aina ma division
Ilikahi ma Kaalaiki"
`Imakakaloa—Heiau of Overlooking Kanaloa(sea), Stokes 1991:126
`Imakakaloa or `Imakakoloa
Located on the slope of the Overlooking Koloa(place),
open county, a mile from the The rumbling of Kanaloa(sea)
sea...a series of enclosures
with walls.
Kamoku—Claim no. 10952:2 The district NT 8:431,432.
by Wa`apo is for"2 kihapai
ma Kamoku ill no Ka`alaiki."
Ka`alaiki—Returned by The small waterworn stones MB 14,189
Keohokalole,retained by
Government
50
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Naunuamaia-The Mauka The stones of the calm RM 1455; USG 1966; BC 113
corner of Hilea Nui where (3:265); BCT 1:420, 424
Ka`alaiki and Ninole join.
Also,Naunuamala`e
Palimuku—"...a second large Short cliff RM 1455; USGS 1966; BC
pall"between Paneenee and 113 (3:265); BCT 1:421, 424
Palahalaha on Ka`alaiki/Hilea
Nui boundary
Pane`ene`e—"Paneenee Pali" To move along little by little RM 1455; USGS 1966; BC
on USGS. The northern two slowly. 113 (3:265); BCT 1:420, 421,
waterfalls. Pane`ene`e 433.
Papaloa—"a pull pohaku" at Long flat RM 1455; USGS 1966; BC
the north corner of RPG 2948 113 (3:264); BCT 1:421
between Kapohakunui and
Kapuna on Ka`alaiki/Hilea
Nui boundary
Kapohakunui—"...a large The large rock BCT 1:420
rock in the sea"marks the
boundary of Hilea Nui and
Ka`alaiki.
Kapuna—Located between The spring RM 1455; USGS 1966; BC
Papaloa and Paneenee on 113 (3:264)
Ka`alaiki/Hilea Nui boundary
Kauali`i—Claim no. 10217 By
Muo: "ko`u mo`o `aina o
Kauali`i, 1 mala wauke,ma
Ka`alaiki, 3 kihapai kaki'
51
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Place Name Definition Source
Kea`a—Claim no. 7093:2 by The root NT 8:431,432,483
Kauikoaole is for"4 kihapai
kalo ma Kea`a ill"
Kiha`6pa`i—"...kauhale Trembling supernatural lizard BCT 1:420
kahiko at the foot of a pall"
Kaumukukui—"...a kauhale The candlenut oven BCT 1:42,421
kahiko on the Kona side of
Kaiholena there is a kahawai
[Hilea Gulch] between the
Kauhale and the hill'
Ka`ehumauiki—A pall mauka The continuous fine spray BCT 1:399
of the land of Kioloku, above
Ndpumai`a and Kumuloulu.
Ka`ehuma`uiki
The slightly damp mist
Kdwa Springs—Large springs Distance Between two points USGS 1962; Stearns&
at the shore have "a visible Macdonald 1946:262.
discharge of about 10 million
gallons a day. More probably
discharges beneath the sea
TABLE 2. Ka`alaiki place names (Soehren 2005:14-16)
52
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and hide form detection for the better part of a year. He was known as the dark `awa among the
hala blossoms, with long black hair down to his ankles and was loved by his people. While the
rebel chief was sought, Kalani`6pu`u "went to Ka`u, and erected a heiau called Pakini, or
Halauwailua, near Kama`oa" (Kamakau 1992:108 [1961]). `Tmakak6loa was eventually captured
and brought to the heiau, where K7iwala`6 (Kalani`6pu`u's son) was to sacrifice him as an
offering to Ku. Papamoana Heiau in Wai`6hinu is also mentioned as being the site where this
event took place (Stokes and Dye 1990:123).
The routine of the sacrifice required that the presiding chief should first offer up the pig
prepared for the occasion, the bananas, fruit offerings, Kamehameha following counsel of chiefs
loyal to him, "grasped the body of`Tmakak6loa and offered it up to the god, and the freeing of
the tabu for the heiau was completed" (Kamakau 1992:109[1961]). Upon observing this single
act of insubordination many of the chiefs believed that Kamehameha would eventually rule over
all of Hawaii. Mary Kawena Puku`i tells a variant of this story as told to her by her senior
relatives in an unpublished compilation on genealogies, a portion of this story is found in a
footnote in Kamakau's Ruling Chiefs of Hawai`i (Kamakau 1992:109).
I-maka-koloa was the chief who was put to death at the heiau of Halau-wailua in Pakini,
and, according to the historians was laid on the altar by Kamehameha. The tale told to
me by my senior relatives did not agree with this. I-maka-koloa was captured in Puna
and brought to Ka`u to be put to death. A retainer of his, and his son (who looked exactly
like the chief) discussed the matter and decided to spare the chief by guile. The father
waited by the roadside and upon seeing the chief and his captors, cried out, "That is not
the chief you have there, that is his retainer." "Where is the chief, then?" "There!" and
pointed to a house where his son awaited to replace their beloved chief. Hence came
these Ka`u personal names, I kauwa(I-the lowly), I-kanaka (I-the-retainer) and I-pa`a-
puka (I-who-closed-the-door) (of death) (Puku`i in Kamakau 1992:109).
34
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Genealogy of`Imakakoloa
I=Kaouliko`okeaokalani
Keaweikekahimakao`i=Kanaloa (brother sister union)
Ha`akahea=`Imakakoloa=Kaikil ani
`Imaikalani=? `Imaka`ae`ae=Ululani
Kiniakua Kilinahekeli`iokapa`alani
FIGURE 8. Genealogy of`Imakakoloa(Puku`i in an unpublished compilation of genealogies:
45,46,72).
It is not clear if`Imakakaloa Heiau is associated with Kanaloa the ocean, the kahuna(priests) of
`Imakakoloa, `Imakakoloa the rebel chief of Puna, or the K61oa area. In Stokes's field notes, he
states the heiau: "said to be built by `Imakakaloa and dedicated to Laka (Stokes 1906). His field
notes reflect that his informant was an old native from the coast. The genealogy of`Imakakaloa
(Figure 8) shows that he was the result of a brother sister union and direct descendent to `I,
which would have made him of very high rank and therefore a threat to Kalani`6pu`u. His name
stresses his important rank by combining parts of his parent's names, `Imaka and
Keaweikekahimakao i and Kaloa short for Kanaloa exclaiming to all that he is the high-ranking
35
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Hanai a -ai.
To care for and eat from
'Olelo No'eau
Section 4 focuses on protecting and enhancing Ka'u's rich
including coastal areas, agricultural land, mauka forests, s
cultural features, and public access and trails. Four basic ap
use policy protections, governmental initiative, and collabora
the community.
Section 4.1 guides the community- and government-led exp
focus on coastal areas. It also supports landowners who see
easements or use agricultural and forestry land preservation
Section 4.2 protects coastal areas from development with
setbacks, the Special Management Area, and encouragement
the community voice in land use decisions.
Section 4.3 protects agricultural land and open space from
growth boundaries, permit conditions, and limits on Specia
stronger farm dwelling regulations and tax incentive progra
development of transfer of development rights (TDRj an
Agricultural Land designations, and expedited lot consolidatio
Section 4.4 protects mauka forests from development with th
r
x
Section 4.5 protects open space, areas with natural beauty
controls and by prioritizing view plane regulations and scenic
Section 4.6 encourages the removal of unexploded ordna
implementation of resource management plans,and the enfo
Section 4.7 prioritizes the preservation of historic buildings a
streetscapes and rural road standards. It also guides commu
buildings, retain village and town character, and document or
Section 4.8, 4.9, and 4.10 ensure appropriate public access
community-led access management and trail development,an
trails programs and facilities.
6ak gCJ2&ftnity Development Plan 40
expand the Local System of Preserves
This section of the CDP guides the expansion of lands held in public trust, supports landowners
establishing conservation and agricultural easements and using agricultural and forestry land preservation
programs, and encourages the National Park to pursue acquisition priorities.
4.1. '.ommunity Objective!
■ Objective 1: Encourage future settlement patterns that are safe, sustainable,and connected. They
should protect people and community facilities from natural hazards, and they should honor the
best of Ka'u's historic precedents: concentrating new commercial and residential development in
compact, walkable, mixed-use town/village centers, allowing rural development in the rural lands,
and limiting development on the shorelines.
■ Objective 2: Preserve prime and other viable agricultural lands and preserve and enhance
viewscapes that exemplify Ka'u's rural character.
■ Objective 3: Protect, restore, and enhance ecosystems, including mauka forests and the shorelines,
while assuring responsible access for residents and for visitors.
■ Objective 4: Protect, restore, and enhance Ka'u's unique cultural assets, including archeological and
historic sites and historic buildings.
..�.Jty Action
Through the strategic and collaborative use of the resources identified in Appendix 4A,the County should:
Policy 20 Support the National Park Service's expansion plans for the Hawai'i Volcanoes National
Park. (GP 14.9.3(e))
Policy 21 Support the efforts of landowners to establish conservation and agricultural easements.
Policy 22 Secure in public trust (fee simple or by easement) priority coastal land that achieves one or
more of the Community Objectives.
See Policy 82 on page 67.
4.1.? Advocac,
4.1.3.1 U. S. Congress
■ Advance legislation to complete the requisite special resource study to assess the feasibility of
designating the Ka'u coast as a unit of the National Park System or otherwise protect coastal
resources, in full collaboration with County, State, and private interests and with the cooperation of
private citizens and property owners within the study area.
4.1.3.2 National Park Service
■ As outlined in the Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park General Management Plan (GMP), continue to
pursue acquisition priorities, such as the Great Crack parcels (TMKs (3)9-6-013:003, (3)9-6-013:008,
(3)9-6-013:009) and other properties as described in the GMP.
SQgg.26-05 Ka'u Community Development Plan
4.1.4 Community-Based, Collaborative Action
Community Action 2:Secure in public trust(fee simple or by
more of the Community Objectives.
Community Action 3: Encourage the use of agriculture, ranch
90
ih—
w
■
.�
!
w
w-
6akggCJ2&ftnity Development Plan t
4.2 Protect the Coast from Development
This section of the CDP protects coastal areas from development with the CDP Land Use Policy Map,
shoreline setbacks, the Special Management Area, and encouragement to the State to strengthen
protections and the community voice in land use decisions.
4.2.1 ` --..`.. .,I_:--� -
■ Objective 1: Encourage future settlement patterns that are safe, sustainable, and connected. They
should protect people and community facilities from natural hazards, and they should honor the
best of Ka'u's historic precedents: concentrating new commercial and residential development in
compact, walkable, mixed-use town/village centers, allowing rural development in the rural lands,
and limiting development on the shorelines.
■ Objective 3: Protect, restore, and enhance ecosystems, including mauka forests and the shorelines,
while assuring responsible access for residents and for visitors.
■ Objective 4: Protect, restore, and enhance Ka'u's unique cultural assets, including archeological and
historic sites and historic buildings.
' = 4 Use Policy
Policy Intent
Policy 23 Protect the shoreline from the encroachment of man-made improvements and structures.
(GP 8.3(d))
Policy 24 Maintain the shoreline for recreational, cultural, education, and/or scientific uses in a
manner that is protective of resources and is of the maximum benefit to the general public.
(GP 8.3(c))
Policy 25 Protect and conserve forest and coastal areas with native wildlife, natural ecosystems, and
wilderness. (GP 8.4)
Policy 26 Encourage those developments that are not coastal dependent to locate in inland areas.
(HRS 205A-2(c)(3(D))
Policy Controls
See Policy 10 on page 40, Policy 11 on page 40, Policy 12 on page 40, Policy 13 on page 40, and Policy
14 on page 40.
Policy 27 To reinforce existing protections, the official Ka'u CDP Land Use Policy Map designates
coastal areas in Ka'u as open space to be preserved, protected, and connected to the rich
network of natural and cultural resources in the region. Development and construction in
the coastal "Conservation" and "Open" areas shall be minimized and, when necessary,
limited to recreation, research, and education facilities unless otherwise permitted by law.
Policy 28 On lots that are at least partially within the Special Management Area (SMA) in the Ka'u
CDP Planning Area, establish shoreline setbacks at the earliest stages of the land use
planning and development process at a minimum of 1,320 feet (1/4-mile); however, the
SZgg.26-05 Ka'u Community Development Plan
applicant may request that the setback be r
❑epartment, including information required f❑
assessment of the proposed activity's impact
limitations of the property. For lots created pri
an average lot depth of two hundred feet or less,
Policy 29 No development, including subdivision, shall
development will not have any substantial adver
205A-22(3) &205A-26(2)(A)j
Pursuant to Planning Commission (PC) Rule 9-10(
Director to accurately evaluate whether the prop •
effect, pursuant to PC Rule 9-4(e)(4), the Dire
Assessment and Use Permit applications include
the proposed activity's impacts in the Special M
to, ■
■ A description of the environmental setting an
assessment of impacts ❑n rare, threatened,
on fresh and coastal water quality(PC Rule 9-
■ A description of valued cultural resources o
extent to which traditional and customary nati
(PC Rule 9-10(b)(6)& (h)(1));
■ An assessment ❑f impacts on coastal scenic a W.
including those outlined in the General Plan
other adopted plans, as well as the line of si
nearest the coast and along the shoreline(HR
205A-26(3)(E), and PC Rule 9-10(h)(1));
■ Identification and detailed information of exis
to the specifications required by Na Ala Hele
(PC Rule 9-10(b)(10));
■ An assessment of impacts on hazard risk, inclu
and/or sea level rise over the life of the devel
■ A description of the relationship of the prop
control of the affected area, including the G
Plan (PC Rule 9-10(b)(5)(13)).
Any development permitted, including those det
of development in Planning Commission Rule 9
10(e) & (g)), shall be subject to terms and condi
and policies, including conditions that protect
resources; preserve agricultural land, open space
impacts of coastal hazards; limit coastal develop
(particularly if it is not coastal dependent) ❑n v
Sak gCO&Mnity Development Plan 53
converting agricultural land to residential uses), and discouraging speculative residential
development. Conditions could include but not be limited to setbacks, restrictions on artificial
light, lateral and mauka-makai access requirements, dedication of conservation and trail
corridor easements, cooperation with efforts to manage access and use of coastal resources,
minimizing the number of lots abutting or near the shoreline, and maximizing the use of land
in the State Land Use Urban district and/or urban LUPAG categories.
4.2.3 County Action
Policy 30 Amend Planning ❑epartment Rule 11 to specify that the Planning Department establish
shoreline setbacks in the Ka'u CDP Planning Area in accordance with Policy 28.
Policy 31 Review SMA boundaries in Ka'u and initiate appropriate amendments.
4.2.4 Advocacy
4.2.4.1 Department of Land and Natural Resources
Amend HAR 13-5 to designate the coastal Conservation District subzones in Ka'u Limited or
Protective.
Following the recommendation of the South Kona-Ka'u Coastal Conservation Task Force, amend HAR
13-5-40(b) to require that public hearings before the Board of Land and Natural Resources be held
in the judicial district in which the land is located.
Community-Based, Collaborative Actior
See Community Action 2 on page 51.
F
M,` - *
r -
S4gg.26-05 Ka'u Community Development Plan
4.3 Protect Agricultural Lands & Open Space
This section of the CDP protects agricultural land and open sp
the CDP Land Use Policy Map, urban growth boundaries, li
restrictions on residential development. It also prioritizes ag
water catchment variance rules, stronger farm dwelling
development of transfer of development rights (TDR) a
Agricultural Land designations, and expedited lot consolidatia
4.3.1 Community Objectives
■ Objective 1: Encourage future settlement patterns that a
should protect people and community facilities from natu
best of Ka'u's historic precedents: concentrating new co
compact,walkable, mixed-use town/village centers, all❑
and limiting development on the shorelines.
■ Objective 2: Preserve prime and other viable agricu
viewscapes that exemplify KaVs rural character.
4.3. Land U.. .-olicy
Policy Intent
Policy 32 Conserve and protect agricultural lands. (State C
2.3(s), 14.1.2(b), & 14.2.2(a))
Policy 33 Preserve the agricultural character of Ka'u,
agricultural land. (GP 14.2.2(b)& 14.2.3(d))
Policy 34 Vacant lands in urban areas should be made avai
agricultural lands are converted into residential
Policy 35 Limit development of agricultural land to ag .
residential development and urban encroachme
Policy 36 Agricultural lands shall not be rezoned to parcel
farming units. (GP 14.2.3(s)) rl
Policy 37 Maintain the open space and rural character of
Sands areas, including continued inclusion in th
Rural),except in the areas in Land Use Policy Ma
Policy Controls
See Policy 10 on page 40, Policy 11 on page 40, Policy 12 on
14 on page 40.
Policy 38 To reinforce existing protections, the official K
agricultural lands in Ka`u as areas to be pr
Development and construction in "Import
I A
6ak gCJ2&ftnity Development Plan S
Agriculture" areas shall be limited to agriculture, related economic infrastructure and
cottage industries,renewable energy,open area recreational uses,and community facilities
unless otherwise permitted by law.
Policy 39 The urban growth boundary between agricultural areas(designated"Important Agricultural
Land" or "Extensive Agriculture") and developed areas (designated "Rural,"
"Low/Medium/High Density Urban," "Industrial," or"Resort") is parcel-specific in the Ka'u
CDP planning area, except at Punalu'u and the Low/Medium Density Urban and Industrial
nodes in Ocean View. Areas outside designated developed areas shall be preserved as
agricultural lands,open space,scenic view planes,and natural beauty areas, unless the CDP
and the General Plan are in direct conflict.
Policy 40 Special permits of any kind in the"Important Agricultural Land"and"Extensive Agriculture"
Land Use Policy Map categories should not be permitted in the Ka'u CDP planning area,
except for the following uses (as defined in HCC chapter 25):
■ Agriculture and Related Economic Infrastructure: Animal hospitals, Veterinary
establishments, Fertilizer yards utilizing only manure and soil, for commercial use
■ Cottage Industry related to Agriculture: Bed and breakfast establishments,Guest ranches,
Lodges, Home occupations
■ Community Facilities: Community buildings, Public uses and structures, Shooting ranges,
ATV courses (in areas without cultural, natural resource, or scenic value)
■ Quarries whose permit conditions address geotechnical, engineering,safety, private road
use, oversight, and any site-specific issues.
■ Urban Uses in Ocean View: Uses consistent with the LDU, MDU, and Industrial LUPAG
categories indicated on the Ka'u CDP Land Use Policy Map in Ocean View, until the SLU
boundaries are amended (from Agriculture to Urban).
The Planning Commission shall also include in any Special Permit approval (or recommend
for approval to the State Land Use Commission) appropriate performance conditions to
achieve CDP objectives and implement CDP policies. (HRS 205-6(c) and Planning
Commission Rules 6-3(a)(5)(G), 6-7, & 6-8)
Policy 41 Special permits of any kind in the "Rural" Land Use Policy Map category should not be
permitted in the Ka'u CDP planning area, except for the following uses (as defined in HCC
chapter 25):
■ Agriculture and Related Economic Infrastructure: Animal hospitals, Veterinary
establishments, Kennels
■ Cottage Industry: Bed and breakfast establishments, Home occupations, Commercial or
personal service uses, on a small scale
■ Health and Dependent Care: Day care centers, Family child care homes, Adult day care
homes, Group living facilities
S(ugg.26-05 Ka'u Community Development Plan
■ Community Facilities: Community building
temples and synagogues, Public uses and str
(e.g., road maintenance facilities),Tennis cou
■ Urban Uses in Ocean View: Uses consistent
categories indicated on the Ka`u CDP Land U
boundaries are amended (from Agricultural t
■ Quarries in Hawaiian Ocean View Estates
concern with current mining operations, in
private road use, regular oversight by agencie
site restoration plans, and any other site-spe
The Planning Commission shall also include in a
for approval to the State Land Use Commissio
achieve CDP objectives and implement CD
Commission Rules 6-3(a)(5)(G),6-7, &6-8)
Policy 42 Landowners interested in subdivision of agricultu
be encouraged to subdivide pursuant to HCC sec
Policy 43 When considering applications to consolidate a
the Director of Planning shall only permit lots Iri
Use Agricultural district if the applicant clea
economic hardship cannot otherwise be preven
to the objectives and policies of the CDP. (HRS 211
Policy 44 Through permit conditions, development agre
means, ensure that areas in the "Important Agri
Land Use Policy Map categories continue to be
speculative or other residential development.
LA
0 � � irni int�i Ortin� S
See Policy 21 on page 50.
Policy 45 Establish agricultural subdivision standards that
farmsteads by reducing infrastructure requirem
with appropriate rural water systems and ro
development.
Policy 46 Amend Planning Department Rule 22 to increase
catchment variance, in consideration of zoning,
specific characteristics.
Policy 47 Amend the Hawaii County Code and associate
reporting and inspection requirements, as wel
additional farm dwellings to ensure that dwell in
A 2,Nov
6ak gCJ2&ftnity Development Plan 57
Policy 48 Update the County of Hawai'i's tax reduction programs to ensure that public tax incentives
for agricultural land use result in actual public benefits and promote local agricultural
production where possible.
Policy 49 Conduct a feasibility study for a County-wide Transfer of development Rights(TI)R) and/or
Save Land for the Future (SLF) program. If feasible, adopt any necessary enabling County
legislation.
Policy 50 Recommend lands to be designated State Important Agricultural Lands. (GP 14.2.2(a) &
14.2.3(i))
Policy 51 Preserve open space in Green Sands, Mark Twain, and Ocean View subdivisions by
streamlining the lot consolidation process with, for example, fee waivers and exemptions
from signage requirements.
See Policy 143 an page 90 and Policy 150 on page 94.
4.3.4 Auvocacy
4.3.4.1 State Legislature
■ Appropriate funds to the County of Hawaii to develop recommendations of lands to be designated
State Important Agricultural Lands.
■ Pass legislation enabling land banks that counties can use to acquire tax-delinquent properties and
use them to preserve agricultural land and open space.
Community-Baser' Collaborative Acti—
See Community Action 2 on page 51 and Community Action 3 on page 51.
ri
58gg.26-05 Ka'u Community Development Plan
4.4 Protect Mauka Forests
This section of the CDP protects mauka forests from develop
,umriiunity Objective:
■ Objective 1� Encourage future settlement patterns that a
should protect people and community facilities from natu
best of Ka`u's historic precedents: concentrating new col
compact,walkable, mixed-use town/village centers, allow
and limiting development on the shorelines.
■ Objective I Protect, restore, and enhance ecosystems
while assuring responsible access for residents and for visi
■ Objective 4: Protect, restore, and enhance KaVs unique
historic sites and historic buildings.
4.4.2 Land Use Policy
Policy Intent
See Policy 25 on page 52, Policy fit on page 62, and Policy 69
Policy Controls
Policy 52 To reinforce existing protections, the official K
mauka forests in Ka'u as open space to be pre
region's rich network of natural and cultural res
mauka"Conservation"areas shall be minimized a
research, and education facilities unless otherwi
■
n A 2 County Actior
See Policy 21 on page 50 and Policy 64 on page 62. LA
4.4.4 Advocacy 0
See 4.2.4.1 Department of Land and Natural Resources on p
! C
4.4.4.1 Office of Planning, Department of Business, Ec
■ Designate forest and watershed areas into the Conservat
comprehensive reviews. (GP 8.3(m)}
4.4.E Community-Based, Collaborative Actior
See Community Action 2 on page 51 and Community Action
6a`ggCJ2&ftnity Development Plan S0
4.5 Preserve Scenic Areas
This section of the CDP protects open space, areas with natural beauty, and scenic view planes with
permitting controls and by prioritizing view plane regulations and scenic routes.
Community Objectiv,
■ Objective 2: Preserve prime and other viable agricultural lands and preserve and enhance viewscapes
that exemplify Ka'u's rural character.
and Use Policy
Policy Intent
See Policy 33 on page 55.
Policy 53 Protect, preserve and enhance the quality of open space, areas endowed with natural and
scenic beauty, and public views to and along the shoreline. (HRS 205A-2(b)(3)(B), HRS 205-
26, Charter section 13-29, & GP 7.2(a), 7.2(c), 8.2(e), 14.8.2(a), & 14.8.3(d))
Policy 54 Protect scenic vistas and view planes from becoming obstructed, considering structural
setbacks from major thoroughfares and highways to protect view plans. (GP 7.2(b) &7.3(f))
Policy 55 Do not allow incompatible construction in areas of natural beauty. (GP 7.3(i))
Policy Controls
See Policy 12 on page 40, Policy 14 on page 40, Policy 27 on page 52, Policy 28 on page 52, Policy 38 on
page 55, and Policy 39 on page 56.
Policy 56 In the Ka'u CDP Planning Area, the environmental report for proposed changes of zone on
property that may impact open space,view planes,and areas of natural beauty shall include
view plane and, as appropriate, line-of-sight analysis and, to facilitate implementation of
Policy 10, proposed conditions to mitigate scenic impacts. (HCC 25-2-42)
Policy 57 In the Ka'u CDP Planning Area,applications for Special Permits that may impact open space,
view planes, and areas of natural beauty shall include view plane and, as appropriate, line-
of-sight analysis and proposed performance conditions to mitigate scenic impacts.
(Planning Commission Rule 6-3(a)(5)(G), 6-7, & 6-8)
Policy 58 In the Ka'u CDP Planning Area, applications for Use Permits for wind energy facilities and
telecommunications antennas and towers shall include view plane and,as appropriate,line-
of-sight analysis to demonstrate how the request does not cause substantial, adverse
impact to the community's character, including open space, public views, and areas of
natural and scenic beauty, and proposed conditions to mitigate scenic impacts. (HCC 25-2-
60&64)
60gg.26-05 Ka'u Community Development Plan
4.5.3 County Actior
Policy 59 ❑evelop and establish view plane regulations to
scenic resources, vistas, view planes, ❑pen sp
natural beauty identified in the General Plan. (C
7.3(b), 7.3(e), 7.3(f), 7.3(h), 7.3(i), & 14.8.3(d)}
Policy 60 Introduce a resolution to initiate the establishm
Policy 61 Maintain a continuing program to identify,acqui
(GP 7.3(c))
•
4.5.4 Community-✓used, Collaiaorative Actioi,
Community Action 4: Advance development of scenic routes.
Ir
•
■
Sak gCO&Mnity Development Plan 1
4.6 Protect and Enhance Ecosystems
This section of the CDP encourages the removal of unexploded ordnance,the collaborative development
and implementation of resource management plans, the use of Hawaiian plants, and the enforcement
necessary to protect ecosystems.
'.ommunity Objective!
■ Objective 3: Protect, restore, and enhance ecosystems, including mauka forests and the shorelines,
while assuring responsible access for residents and for visitors.
■ Objective 6: Encourage community-based management plans to assure that human activity doesn't
degrade the quality of Ka'u's unique natural and cultural landscape.
4.6.. Land Use Policy
Policy Intent
See Policy 25 on page 52.
Policy 62 Protect, preserve, and effectively manage forests, watersheds, shoreline areas, natural
areas, and rare or endangered species and their habitats. (GP 8.2(d) & (e), 14.1.2(c), &
14.8.2(b))
Policy Controls
See Policy 12 on page 40, Policy 14 on page 40, Policy 27 on page 52, Policy 28 on page 52, Policy 29 on
page 53, and Policy 52 on page 59.
Policy 63 The Director of Public Works should condition grading and grubbing permits to require
screen planting, landscaping, erosion control planting, or other treatments to maintain the
good appearance of graded areas and reduce the detrimental impact on adjacent
properties. (HCC 10-12(c))
4.6.3 County Actior
See Policy 22 on page 50 and Policy 31 on page 54.
Policy 64 Collaborate with the Department of Health,the Three Mountain Alliance,the USDA Natural
Resource Conservation Service, and the Soil and Water Conservation District to reduce
runoff, maximize soil and water conservation, and protect and effectively manage
watersheds and natural areas. (HRS 342D, HAIR 11-54-3, GP 4.3(g), 5.2(e) & (f), 5.3(e), (n), &
(o), and 8.2(e) & (j))
Policy 65 Actively implement the Honu'apo Park Resources Management Plan.
Policy 66 Complete and implement the Kawa Stewardship plan.
Policy 67 Develop and implement resource management plans for coastal properties secured by the
County in the future.
6ugg.26-05 Ka'u Community Development Plan
Policy 68 Encourage the use of Hawaiian plants [indigen
state, county, and private landowners in order
ensure that our cultural heritage is reflected
displacement and decline of Hawaiian plants.
4.6.4 Advocacy
4.6.4.1 U.S. Congress
■ Provide sufficient funding to the Department of Agricult
Service (NRCS) Pacific Islands Area (PIA), the Farm Servi
and the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS)to adequately id
■
4.6.4.2 Army Corps of Engineers
■ Expedite the removal of unexploded ordnance in the
surveying of potential sites with unexploded ordnance.
4.6.4.3 State Legislature
• Provide the Department of Land and Natural Resources
support local Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SW
• Authorize and fund a South Hawai'i Marine Protected A)
4.6.4.4 Department of Health
■
■ Require implementation of management measures to p
r
4.6.4.5 Department of Land and Natural Resources
■ Following the recommendation of the South Kona-Ka`u C ■
least one State DOCARE officer to the Ka'u district to aid
4.6.4.6 Department of Hawaiian Home Lands CA
■ Maintain the Ka Lae (South Point) coastal areas and rela
education, and/or scientific uses in a mannerthat is prote
Hawaiian Homes Commission Act and all applicable laws
■
shoreline access. (GP 8.3(c)& 12.5.9.2(d)).
4.6.4.7 Three Mountain Alliance(TVA)
■ Strengthen the community and County role in the TMA.
■ Actively implement the Ocean Resources Management
plan,and the Ka'u Forest Reserve Management Plan.
■ Develop watershed management plans for high priority
r-.S Community-Based, Collaborative Action
Community Action 5: Develop and implement site-specific an
high priority areas and resources. ORR
SakpCiMftnity Development Plan 63
Community Action 6: promote soil and water - practices.See Community Action • on page 83 and Community Action 29 on page 97.
- .. �!!.•�� . ram. .. �t r'�y r I.
Development
4.7 Protect and Enhance Cultural Assets
This section of the CDP prioritizes the preservation of cultural
the development of historic streetscapes and rural road stan
to restore historic sites and buildings, retain village and town
video histories.
4.7.1 Community Objective,!
■ Objective 4: Protect, restore, and enhance Ka'u's unique
historic sites and historic buildings.
■ Objective 5: Establish and enforce standards for de •
community values of architectural beauty and distinctiv
■ Objective 6: Encourage community-based management
degrade the quality of Ka`u's unique natural and cultural 1
4.7.2 Land Use Policy
Policy Intent
See Policy 24 on page 52.
Policy 69 Protect, restore, and enhance the sites, buildin
i.mi
cultural importance to Hawaii. (GP 6.2(a])
•
Policy 70 Protect all rights, customarily and traditionall
religious purposes and possessed by ahupua'a
Hawaiians who inhabited the Hawaiian Islands pr
to regulate such rights. (Hawai'i State Constituti
Ka Pa'akai o ka `Aina v. Land Use Comm'n,94 Ha
73 Haw. 578 (1992)j
Policy Controls 0
See Policy 12 on page 40, Policy 14 on page 40, Policy 27 on
s
Policy 71 Review and comment by ❑LNR's State Histor
requested for any permit or entitlement for use
abject, district, area, or site that is over fifty ye
6E-42.2. (HRS 6E-42)
Policy 72 In the "Low Density Urban" (LDU) and "Medi
categories, in those cases where provisions
inconsistent with the character of surroundin
maintain consistent village/town character shou
Policy 73 The development of commercial facilities shou
minimal intrusion while providing the desired
design concerns shall be incorporated into the r
SaWCi3Bftnity Development Plan >
Policy 74 As appropriate to maintain community character while also accommodating drainage,
walkability, maintenance, and other site-specific needs when improving existing roads in
Pahala, N5'51ehu,and Wai'6hinu, retain the current road design, including pavement width
and lack of curbs,gutters, sidewalks, or paved shoulders and swales.
Policy 75 As appropriate to maintain community character while also accommodating drainage,
walkability,maintenance,and other site-specific needs,new roads(both public and private)
in the Ka'u CDP planning area may be constructed without curbs, gutters, sidewalks, or
paved shoulders and swales. (HCC 23-41, 86, 87, & 91)
4J_q rnunty Actinr
See Policy 22 on page 50 and Policy 31 on page 54.
Policy 76 Restore and enhance the sites, buildings, and objects of significant historical and cultural
importance to Hawai'i. (GP 6.2(a)and 6.3(e), (f), & (j))
Policy 77 Adopt and implement street design standards that accommodate, where appropriate,
flexibility in the design of streets to preserve the rural character of an area, including
pavement width, unpaved shoulders/swales,rock walls, lighting, and landscaping featuring
native plants. (GP 13.2.3(I); North Kohala CDP Strategy 4.8)
Policy 78 Install an historic streetscape on Kamani Street in Pahala.
4.7.4 Advocacy
4.7.4.1 State Legislature
■ Following HRS 6E, provide the Department of Land and Natural resources sufficient staff and funding
for the State Historic Preservation Division to fulfill its mandate.
. Community-Based, Collaborative Actions
See Community Action 2 on page 51 and Community Action 4 on page 61.
Community Action7: Develop and implement a regional plan for managing cultural and historic
resources.
Community Action 8: Develop and implement site-specific cultural resource management plans for high
priority areas and resources.
Community Action 9: Restore the N5'51ehu Theater.
Community Action 10: Develop and implement place-based strategies to retain village and town
character.
Community Action 11: Document, maintain, and share the mo'olelo of Ka'u through oral,written, and/or
video histories.
Community Action 12: Establish a Ka'u Cultural Network.
See Community Action 19 on page 83 and Community Action 29 on page 97.
6Ergg.26-05 Ka'u Community Development Plan
4.8 Establish and Manage Public Access
This section of the CUP ensures appropriate public access t
community-led access management, and prioritizes a County
4.8.1 Community Objective_
■ Objective 3' Protect, restore, and enhance ecosystems, i
while assuring responsible access for residents and for vi
■ Objective 6: Encourage community-based management
degrade the quality of Ka`u's unique natural and cultural
4.8.2 Land Use Policy
Policy Intent
See Policy 70 on page 65.
Policy 79 Ensure appropriate public access to the shorelin
and vistas, and significant historic sites, bui
Additionally, ensure access for cultural practition
Policy Controls
Policy 80 Appropriate public access to and along the shorel
exemptions and permits. (HRS 205A-26)
Policy 81 Subdividers of six or more lots, parcels, units,or i
for public access for pedestrian travel from a pub
high-water mark on any coastal shoreline or t❑
s
existing facilities for hiking, hunting, fruit-picki
purposes, and where there are existing mountai
4.9.3 Countv Action
See Policy 22 on page 50.
Policy 82 In co-sponsorship with the State when possible, •
sites and objects and to the shoreline where safe
GP 6.3(d)y
Policy 83 Establish and maintain an active public access pr,
4.8.4 Advocacy
4.8.4.1 State Legislature
■ To facilitate greater public access to and along the sh
Hawai`i's Recreational Use Statute (RUS), to make it le
lawsuits.
6ak gCJ2&ftnity Development Plan 67
4.8.4.2 Three Mountain Alliance(TWA)
■ Actively implement the TMA and Ka'u Forest Reserve management plans, including steps to:
o Maintain existing public access roads
❑ Increase public access for hiking and other recreational activities on public lands
o Support public hunting on appropriate lands, where compatible with watershed protection
values
Establish access agreements and management partnerships with landowners and local
ranchers,farmers, and hunters
Develop new access routes to increase access in cooperation with neighboring uses,
particularly on existing roads or other alignments just within the Reserve boundary, and
across private and State-leased lands below the Reserve
C; Develop a mauka access management system, building on lessons learned from the Ka papaIa
Ranch access system.
4.8.5 Community-Based, Collaborative Action
Community Action 13- Develop and implement plans to establish and manage specific access points and
trail segments.
r .
rl • Ya
M��
, ..
?
6Sgg.26-05 Ka`u Community Development Plan
4.9 Establish and Manage a Regional Trail Syst
This section of the CDP prioritizes and guides the developmen
,ornmunity Objective
■ Objective 8- Establish a rural transportation network, incl
a regional trail system, and an interconnected transit sys
Q r1 7 1 nnrl Use Policy
Policy Control
Policy 84 Where a subdivision is traversed by a natural #
stream, the Planning Director should require a p
when the opportunity exists to connect to ex1stin
23-30)
4.9.3 County Action
Policy 85 Develop a network of pedestrian access trails
recreational values. This system of trails shall pr
connecting major parks and destinations. (GP 12
0-1
Policy 86 Actively implement the Ala Kahakai National His ro
in Ka'u.
Policy 87 Appropriate, finance, allot, and encumber capit
development as part of a regional trail system.
R Q R IIe-1�rnr3r�i �
4.9.4.1 National Park Service LA
■ Actively implement the Ala Kahakai National Historic Tr
4.9.4.2 Department of Land and Natural Resources
■ Actively implement the Ala Kahakai National Historic Tr
ri
4.9.4.3 Three Mountain Alliance
■ Actively implement the TMA and Ka'u Forest Reserve m
C, Maintain existing trails in the TMA area
Facilitate development of the Mauna Loa Trail.
"nmmi init��-Racnrl f nllahnrati��p Artin •
See Community Action 13 on page 68 and Community Actio
6ak gCJ2&ftnity Development Plan 6q
4.10 Establish and Manage Access and Trail Facilities
This section of the CAP prioritizes and guides the development and management of access and trail
facilities.
4.10.1 Community Objective
■ Objective 7- Identify viable sites for critical community infrastructure, including water, emergency
services and educational facilities to serve both youth and adults.
4.10.2 County Actior
See Policy 22 on page 50, Policy 65 on page 62, and Policy 67 an page 62.
Policy 88 Establish the Punalu'u-Ninole Springs region as a recreation area. {GP 12.5.9.2(c) &(g))
4.10.3 Advocacy
4.10.3.1 Department of Land and Natural Resources
■ Establish Ka'alu`alu Bay or nearby coastal areas as a remote camping-beach park provided that the
state and private landowners can resolve liability and resource management issues. (GP 12.5.9.2(e))
■ Develop wilderness recreation uses in Manuka.
4.10.3.2 Department of Hawaiian Home Lands
See 4.6.4.6 Department of Hawaiian Home Lands on page 63.
4,10.3.3 Three Mountain Alliance(TWA)
■ Actively implement the TMA and Ka'u Forest Reserve management plans, including steps to develop
low-impact recreational amenities.
4.10.4 LurrirrtuMly-nosed, Collaborative Actior.
Community Action 14. Support facilities development and management at access points and along trail
corridors.
_r.
SOgg.26-05 Ka'u Community Development Plan
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7
Edmund C. Olson Trust No 2
January 30, 2026
To Whom It May Concern,
Edmund C. Olson Trust No-2 is the landowner of approximately 1,749.4 acres located in
Ka`alaiki, Ka`u,Hawaii County, State of Hawaii Tax Map Key numbers 9-5-016.008, 010,
011, 024, 026, 031, 033, 034, and 035 ("Property"). We are currently discussing with the Trust
for Public Land a possible sale of the Property for conservation and cultural preservation. If an
agreement can be reached on price and terms,we would be willing to voluntarily move forward
with a conservation sale of the Property in fee simple to the Trust for Public Land.
B
y:jPaul Alston, Trustee
dmund C. Olson Trust No. 2
cc:
Kamuela Kaapana
Trust for Public Land
1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1512
Honolulu,Hawaii 96813
kamuela.kaapana cr.tpl.org
5ugg.26-05
TRUST FOR
PUBLIC
LAND®
H A W A I ` I January 30, 2026
1164 Bishop St., Ste. 1512
Honolulu, HI 96813 Count of Hawaii
tpl.org Department of Finance—PONC
HAWAII BOARD 24 Aupuni Street, Suite 101
Marco Abbruzzese, Chair Hilo, Hawaii 96720-4252
Bank of Hawai'i
Kirstin Punu,vice Chair Re: The Trust for Public Land—Transparency Letter
AES
Ane Bakutis
Kealopiko&LIH Manoa Plant Aloha Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Preservation Commission,
Extinction Prevention Program
Cathy Camp As a matter of policy, the Trust for Public Land (TPL)provides this type of transparency
Central Pacific Bank
ekama Helm letter providing more information about itself and its projects to all of its funding and takeout
Conservationist partners. Please feel free to provide copies of this letter to your staff and other interested
Chris Hochuli parties. We are currently working on the following project:
Merrill Lynch
Nalani Kaina Ka`alaiki Kula,Ka`alaiki, Ka`n,Hawaii Island. Trust for Public Land is assisting the
Kamehameha Schools
Steve meh Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation to protect and purchase Ka`alaiki Kula— 1,749 acres, TMKs
elly
James Campbell Company LLC (3) 9-5-016:008, 010, 011, 024, 026, 031, 033, 034, and 035 for `aina-based restoration and
Ala'amoe Keolanui community and cultural stewardship. Protecting Ka`alaiki Kula will provide opportunities to
OK Farms enhance its natural, cultural, and archaeological resources including `Imakakaloa Heiau, one
Troy Keolanui of two intact hula heiau in all of Hawaii, habit for native birds such as `io, nene, and k6lea
OKOK Farms
McLean and the native bat, `6pe'ape`a, as well as remove invasive vegetation and replant native
MinoIsland Sotheby's Intl. Realty species including `a`ali`i, wiliwili, alahe`e, kukui, and others. The Edith Kanaka`ole
John Meier Foundation is a Hawaiian cultural-based non-profit established on the traditions and cultural
Conservationist heritage of the Kanaka`ole family. Their mission is to elevate Hawaiian intelligence through
Blake Oshiro cultural education founded on the teaching and traditional practices of Edith and Luka
Capitol Consultants of Hawaii
Kanaka`ole.
Jeff Overton
G70
Mahina Paishon What is the Trust for Public Land?
Waiwai Collective
Mike B. Pietsch The Trust for Public Land is a national, non-profit land conservation organization that creates
Title Guaranty Hawaii parks and protects land for people, ensuring healthy, livable communities for generations to
Brad Punu come. TPL assists public agencies, communities and other non-profit organizations in
Green Climate Fund p g p g
Race Randle achieving their park and open space conservation goals through conservation finance and
Maui Land&Pineapple Co. conservation real estate services. The Trust for Public Landis a qualified tax-exempt 501(c)3
Tom Reeve charitable, public benefit corporation.
Conservationist
Ward
Villa Sodaro
Village/Howard
Experience in Acquiring Land
Ward Village/Howard Hughes p q g
Jonathan Sprague
Pajama Lanai The Trust for Public Land relies on its legal, real estate and finance expertise to successfully
Dr. Rachel Sprague complete conservation land transactions. Since The Trust for Public Land's founding over 50
Pajama Lana'i years ago, it has, through its national network of offices, protected or transformed over 5,500
Jan Sullivan special laces over 4 million acres and helped generate over $112 billion in public funding
oceanit P P P g P g
for parks, open space and conservation through over 680 ballot measures in 38 states.
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In Hawai'i, The Trust for Public Land has protected over 79,000 acres and 56 special places since our founding in
1972. A one page fact sheet summarizing our projects in Hawaii is attached to give you a sense of the range and
diversity of The Trust for Public Land's work.
How The Trust for Public Land Works
The Trust for Public Land works in the marketplace, acting quickly and independently to acquire land in its own
name from willing landowners for conservation. The Trust for Public Land acts as a principal in these transactions
and not as an agent of the landowner or of any public agency. The Trust for Public Land seeks to have the
landowner pay as many of the pre-acquisition costs as possible, either directly or through a tax-deductible
contribution to the Trust for Public Land.
The Trust for Public Land's position as a principal also clearly puts it in a risk position. During the course of
negotiations and pre-acquisition work, the Trust for Public Land incurs significant costs. These costs are
substantially increased if The Trust for Public Land acquires the property and holds it well in advance of the public
agency's or non-profit's acquisition from The Trust for Public Land. If a project fails, these costs must be absorbed
by the organization.
The Trust for Public Land has experience working with landowners to satisfy their particular needs including those
related to tax, timing, or estate planning issues. It is the Trust for Public Land's policy to preserve the
confidentiality of its dealings with landowners, which can often be the difference between success and failure in an
acquisition.
As a principal with access to its own capital, the Trust for Public Land can sometimes offer landowners much
shorter closing timetables than might be possible with public agencies which must, of necessity, deal with public
board and council approvals and long lead-time financing mechanisms.
The Trust for Public Land has assisted many agencies at the local, state and federal level in nearly every state in the
nation. The Trust for Public Land tackles complicated transactions that public agencies may not have the staff or
resources to do themselves. It offers a professional and streamlined approach and brings extra hands and minds to
assist often over-extended government staff.
It is the Trust for Public Land's intention that the property it purchases be preserved and used eventually for public
open space purposes, agriculture, heritage lands and ecological services. The Trust for Public Land targets its work
to those properties identified by agencies or other non-profits as priorities for protection, and it is entirely up to a
public agency or non-profit as to whether or not it wants to acquire property from The Trust for Public Land.
Typically, the Trust for Public Land secures a property with a purchase option agreement. During the option
period, on average 12-18 months, the Trust for Public Land performs, at significant cost, the due diligence
associated with the purchase, such as obtaining an appraisal, title review, environmental investigations, and surveys.
The Trust for Public Land understands the need to meet the requirements of funding programs and to coordinate its
due diligence with public agency staff to ensure that the legal and physical condition of the property is acceptable to
funders and the ultimate owner and property manager. If the public agency or other non-profit has decided to
acquire the property, the land is typically sold by the Trust for Public Land at its purchase price, which cannot
exceed the fair market value as established by an appraisal.
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As described in the attached Land Appraisal Policy, the Trust for Public Land will work to ensure that this appraisal
report is prepared in accordance with the highest professional standards and the specific agency's or non-profit's
requirement. The Trust for Public Land will provide the agency or non-profit with whatever additional assistance
we can for its review of this report. Please let us know if your agency has its own appraisal rules or procedures that
need to be followed. Otherwise, The Trust for Public Land will use its own national guidelines in engaging an MAI
or other qualified appraiser acceptable to your agency.
Once the due diligence has been completed, the acquisition funding has been secured, and an agency or non-profit
has agreed to purchase the property, the Trust for Public Land normally exercises its option, buys the property from
the landowner and sells it to the public agency or non-profit. While every transaction brings its own opportunities,
challenges, and quirks, a project can, in some instances, take up to two years or more to complete from the date of
the initial introduction to the landowner to the conveyance of the property to the public agency or other
conservation entity.
What does The Trust for Public Land Charge for its Services?
The Trust for Public Land assumes the risks and liabilities of land ownership, as well as the costs associated with
buying, owning and selling land. The Trust for Public Land believes that public agencies and non-profits have
enough burdens in just paying for the land. The Trust for Public Land's business philosophy is to charge the
government or non-profit only for the land, and to obtain our operational support from charitable donations from
individuals, landowners with whom we work, foundations, and other philanthropic sources. This arrangement
allows The Trust for Public Land to meet its financial needs while assuring public agencies that they are paying no
more than a property is worth. In keeping with this philosophy, we will be requesting a donation from the
landowner, interested community members and individuals, surrounding landowners, and foundations, on the
projects described above. [Please see the attachment for further information on the Trust for Public Land's Public
Benefits Policy.]
A public agency or non-profit is under no financial obligation to The Trust for Public Land until a specific purchase
agreement has been entered into with The Trust for Public Land. At that point, the agency or non-profit is buying
the land from The Trust for Public Land using dollars that have been identified by the agency or non-profit and
which The Trust for Public Land may have assisted in securing.
Conclusion
I hope this letter helps to clarify how the Trust for Public Land works to conserve land for public use and
enjoyment. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. We look forward to working with you
on these important projects.
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Sincerely,
Kamuela Kaapana
Project Associate
Trust for Public Land
Attachments: TPL Appraisal Policy
TPL Public Benefits Policy
TPL Hawaii Fact Sheet
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The Trust for Public Land Appraisal Policy
The appraisal is a key element in any Trust for Public Land (TPL, www jpi.org) assisted conservation transaction. An
appraisal sets the property value for public agencies and non-profits, many of which are legally required to offer fair
market value for property, and an appraisal assures that TPL will not be overpaying for a property, and thus
conferring a private benefit on a landowner.
It is in TPL's, the acquiring agency's or non-profit's and the public's best interests that appraisals be performed by
qualified appraisers, in conformance with appropriate standards and methodologies, and based upon the best data
suggesting value, with rigorous review of the final results.
TPL's policy is to support a public agency appraisal process that is independent, fair and has integrity. TPL
believes it is important to assure the public, and the public agencies to which we transfer lands, that they are
acquiring land from TPL for a fair price.
To implement this policy, TPL will:
• rigorously follow each agency's or non-profit's appraisal rules and procedures;
• hire only the most accomplished appraisers;
• instruct appraisers to conform to the standards identified in the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal
Practice, and where applicable, the Uniform Appraisal Standards for Federal Land Acquisitions,
• provide to the agency or non-profit, upon its request, any written information in our possession that is
relevant to the value of the subject property, unless TPL is prohibited from releasing this information by a
confidentiality agreement; and
• conform to the highest ethical standards.
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Trust for Public Land Public Benefits Policy
The Trust for Public Land (TPL, www.tpl.org)is a national nonprofit organization that conserves land for people to
enjoy as parks, community gardens, historic sites, rural lands, and other natural places. Protecting the places people
care about—from inner city to wilderness—is at the heart of TPL's work.
TPL's work depends on the generous support of donors and volunteers who share our mission of conserving land
for people. The Wall Street Journal's SmartMoney magazine, Money, Forbes, and The Chronicle of Philanthropy
have all rated TPL among the most efficient charities in the United States for keeping fund-raising and operating
costs low while meeting mission goals.
TPL is a recognized 501(c)(3)public charity and as such, donations to TPL are tax deductible. TPL is not a
membership organization and receives no dues. Instead, TPL receives donations and support from corporations,
foundations and individuals—including landowners. We ask landowners to contribute to TPL in virtually every
transaction, and because they well understand our mission, skills and dedication, we usually are successful in
receiving their support.
All donations to TPL are plowed back into our work to conserve land for people. Our donors voluntarily support
TPL because of their interest in the land we protect, and because of our"Land and People" mission.
This support allows TPL to risk its own funds to protect threatened lands for the public, to pay for the considerable
project costs that we incur, and to generally support the organization and our mission.
The public, and public agencies in particular, benefit from TPL's approach to funding land protection in several
ways:
Save cherished lands. Because we are independently funded, we can take financial risks to protect extraordinary,
and often threatened, properties - risks that public agencies are appropriately reluctant to take. As an experienced
organization with a fifty-year track record of success, TPL has protected over 3.7 million acres of land valued at
over $8.2 billion.
Allow limited public funds to go further. Our goal is to create savings for the public by conveying land to public
agencies for less than fair market value, the price that many agencies are required to offer.
TPL typicallysaves agencies project costs. We save agencies hundreds of thousands of dollars each year in
appraisal, survey, staff, option consideration and other project costs by absorbing them ourselves. Thanks to our
donors, we are able to pay for costs that otherwise would be borne by the government agency, and ultimately, by the
taxpayer.
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■ ' ■ ■■■ OUR COMMITMENT IN
ACTION TPL's work and programs are
focused on creating meaningful connections
between people and 'aina.
Aloha 'Aina
O The Aloha 'Ai na program reconnects people to ancestors,culture,
history and each other.We have the privilege of working in partnership
with dedicated Native Hawaiian communities to protect'Ai na in perpetuity,
return lands to Hawaiian organizations for community-based stewardship and
empower everyone to aloha 'aina.
w r
P ❑to Credit:Trust or Public Lan Photo C red it:Keoni Fox P otocr W-Trust or Pu is Lanc
Alakoko Fishpond Waikapuna Ka Iwi Coast Mauka Lands
102 acres I Kauai 2,317 acres I Hawaii Island 182 acres 1O'ahu
Sustainable Hawaii
Our vision for Hawaii is'aina momona—self-sufficient islands abundant in food,healthy forests,and clean
water.We work with private landowners to conserve working lands,creating opportunities for farmers
to own and lease land at affordable rates over long terms.These efforts improve food security and help
to diversify the economy.Our work also protects Hawai`i's upland native forests to safeguard fresh water,
control stormwater runoff that pollutes our oceans,and enhance hiking and other outdoor recreation
opportunities.
,.. _ it- ,,y r■�'lv+.� —.. ........... • _
00 re i; rna ❑linson P'• ?or Public Land o a re i; rus or u rc
MA`O Organic Farms Kamehamenui Forest Reserve Waimea Native Forest
Agricultural production 1O'ahu Reforestation I Maui Watershed preservation I Oahu
Sugg.26-05
Parks for People
We believe everyone should have a park,playground,trail or natural area within a 10-minute walk from
home.Park creation and revitalization have the potential to transform communities,fostering a sense of
place and connection to nature.We engage communities in designing shared visions for parks,improving
the quality of life for all who live and work in the area.
.000
Photo Credit:John Bilderback Photo Credit:Trust for Public Land Photo Credit:John Bilderback
`A`ala Park
Grassroots pilot program designing a shared vision for the Park's future in collaboration with community D'ahu
How we're diff ere nt.
Community is at the center of everything
we do.Driven by our dedicated team,TPL
has made significant conservation impact
throughout Hawaii, preserving more than
78,000 acres of land—and counting—in -
perpetuity. ■
"Trust for Public Land's commitment, -
perseverance and aloha for our state's * '
precious land is unrivaled,"said Catherine
Ngo,Chair of Central Pacific Financial Corp. _ _ `
"The individuals leading this organization g❑ _
above and beyond to protect Hawai'i's land
from development,all while ensuring the
community has a voice and an active role in
stewarding these special places."
"For decades,our family has given to
Trust for Public Land because they have
a proven track record of service for the
community,"said Pard Erdman,Founder -
of Ulupalakua Ranch."So many of
Hawai'i's precious natural resources, ■
cultural sites and agricultural ❑• ❑ ■ .■ ■ ■ '
lands have been saved from �r me...
. • • • •
development thanks to =� j
their dedication." r _ i ■ ■ ■ ■
5ugg.26-05
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