2014-01-13 Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission Minutes

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which is the source of the mud that created all life. He talked about how they continue the connection with their natural environment so that it takes care of them. Since the weather is always changing, . Through education, children are taught about the legend of Poliahu and the Wao akua which is the area below the mist. Traditional relationships continue worship for native practitioners. He spoke of the impact of post- logging, sandalwood extraction and the shift from subsistence to commercial economy. A recent survey was done and there were less than 200 sandalwood found. Their goal is to work off the MKWA Action Plan which includes the Mauna Kea Forest Reserve fence, Mauna Kea Forest Restoration Project, Kanakaleonui Bird Corridor and other various restoration projects in the South and North Hilo area. Also through the Rain Follows the Forest Initiative, the State wants to double the amount of managed areas for watershed. Ms. Matsumura asked if protecting the watershed area, where is the water being harvested. Mr. Perry replied that it would be from the Dept. of Water Supply for most of the areas. To protect the priority areas they were looking for intact native forests because they are more affordable to manage versus restoration projects. Ms. Matsumura commented that the areas above Hilo are not true watersheds. Mr. Perry said that most of the area above Hilo is forest reserve and is managed by the State. They are also looking into doing projects for Hilo -offs like the to make it easier to build reservoirs underwater. Mr. Perry replied that native Hawaiian forests are designed to slow the water down; the trade-winds bring the moisture from the ocean into the forest which acts like a sponge and holds the water. This year the MKWA is continuing to help the State on the Mauna Kea Forest Reserve fencing project by doing inspections and maintenance and also continuing to manage the gorse populations in the Kukaiau Ranch area. The 1,100 acre Laupahoehoe area owned by DHHL is their priority and they are looking at quantity and quality of the water and the long-term benefits of having a native forest. In regards to access, they are working with the State to provide better access on the mauka side in the Laupahoehoe area by creating trails to the Mana Road. Mr. Hirakami asked how can PONC help his program. Mr. Perry replied that he just wanted to educate them about the MKWA and if they were interested in participating to let him know. Ms. Hecht told Mr. Perry that if he knows any property owners that are going to sell their land that should be preserved for parks, this Commission could be a resource. Maybe these lands could be preserved by leases to protect the watershed and forests. Mr. Hirakami noted especially for access. Mr. Perry commented that for access it is very important, you need to have that connection. - 2 -