HomeMy WebLinkAboutComm. 25-009 Comm. 25-009
NA ALA HELE
Hawaii Trail & Access System
January 31", 2025
TO: Hawai'i County Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resource Preservation
Commission
UJ
FROM: Jackson Bauer awai'i Island Na Ala Hele Trail and Access Program Manager
Division of Forestry and Wildlife, Department of Land and Natural Resources
SUBJECT: Na Ala Hele Support for PONC Acquisition of 77 Acres in Kuamo'o Ahupua'a
The Na Ala Hele Trail and Access Program within the Division of Forestry and Wildlife, Department of
Land and Natural Resources, thanks you for the opportunity to provide our support regarding the
nomination for the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resource Preservation Commission (PONC)
acquisition of 77 acres in the Kuamo'o Ahupua'a.
The five adjacent parcels (totaling 77 acres) that are up for nomination have rich oral cultural history
and archeological resources, notably two heiau (Lonohelemoa and Pio'a), and the site of the 1819 Battle
of Kuamo'o and subsequent burials in lava tubes and mounds.The preservation of these parcels, a large
portion of the Kuamo'o ahupua'a, ensure the protection of Hawaiian heritage and offer equitable
educational access.The proximity to existing historic trails and areas (a portion of which is crossed by
the Ala Kahakai Historic Trail alignment) offer the potential for enhancing public access,trail
connectivity, and engagement with the cultural and natural significance of the land.The parcels also
include natural features, such as lava tubes, coastal landscapes, and native flora/fauna habitats, and
should be safeguarded to prevent further environmental degradation.
The current opportunity to acquire these parcels is urgent, as development could result in the loss of
these invaluable resources. Na Ala Hele strongly urges immediate action to secure the parcels and fulfill
their potential for preservation, public benefit, and education.
Thank you again for your consideration of our support for the PONC acquisition of the 77 acres in
Kuamo'o Ahupua'a. I welcome you to contact me directly if you have any questions:Jackson Bauer,
Hawai'i Island Na Ala Hele Trail and Access Program Manager, 808-657-8041,
9ackson.m.bauer@hawaii.gov.
Division of Forestry and Wildlife Department of Land and Natural Resources 19 E.Kawili Street,Hilo,HI 96720