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HomeMy WebLinkAboutSTU.23-01 - Report as of June 30Stewardship Grant Progress Report, Page 1 of 10 OFFICIAL USE ONLY: PO No. Vendor # Rcv’d: Approved for payment: ___________________ Dated: _____________ County of Hawai‘i Department of Finance Property Management Division 25 Aupuni Street, Suite 1101 Hilo, HI 96720 Telephone: (808) 961-8069 PLEASE CHECK TYPE OF PROGRESS REPORT: SEMI-ANNUAL ANNUAL ENTER INFORMATION IN THE FIELDS PROVIDED. 1.NAME AND ADDRESS OF ORGANIZATION: 2.PERSON TO CONTACT: 3.CONTRACT NO.: 4.CONTRACT AWARD AMOUNT: 5.PROJECT NAME (same name used on contract): 6.PROJECT PERIOD: 7.PROGRESS REPORT PERIOD: 8.PROJECT LOCATION (list all TMKs from the contract): 9.CERTIFICATION: The Applicant certifies that the information contained in this report is true and correct to the best of his/her knowledge. NAME OF AUTHORIZED OFFICIAL: TITLE OF AUTHORIZED OFFICIAL: SIGNED:___________________________ DATE:___________________________ STEWARDSHIP GRANT PROGRESS REPORT Interim Report/not Final Report Stewardship Grant Progress Report, Page 2 of 10 A.PROJECT OVERVIEW: B.PROJECT ACCOMPLISHMENTS C.PROJECT CHALLENGES D.FUTURE PLANS RELATING TO THE PROJECT E.PHOTOGRAPHS, MAPS, AND OTHER EXHIBITS (These must be attached at the end of the report as a Word document. If you attach photos, be sure to caption each photo with a date and subject. If it is a group picture, please identify the group and date photo was taken. No need to name the individuals in the photo. There is no need for the same location maps that were attached in the original application. Maps can be sketches and/or drone photos illustrating before and after activities.) 1 MALAMA O PUNA PONC WAI`ELE INTERIM REPORT – Nov. 6, 2023- June 30, 2024 This report details most of the stewardship activities conducted by Malama O Puna at the PONC property “Wai`ele” from FY contract initiation Nov. 6, 2023 to 6/30/24. As only 7 months was provided to conduct 12 months of activities, we are requesting to continue to complete activities that we can by Sept. 30, 2024. We have tried repeatedly to request meetings with the PONC staff to discuss the issues, but have not been granted a meeting. We have approximately $9,000 left in our budget to complete the proposed activities: 1) a Resource Management report, 2) 2nd Marine Debris Clean-up, 3) periodic invasive species/LFA control, 4) Steering Committee final report, and 5) SMA assessment. (1) Archaeological Study: Other activities identified in our FY 2023-24 contract that we cannot perform are a result of an archaeological study that the County did not contract. Ahen applying in August 2022, MOP was informed that the County would contract the archaeological study. That didn’t happen and instead MOP was asked to include the archaeological study in their FY 2024-25 application which we did. MOP’s proposed activities associated with the archaeological study include work hours by Steering Committee member, Keone Kalawe ($5,500), to assist the archaeological consultant with that survey and to help develop curriculum to train youth in identifying and preserving cultural sites. MOP also proposed signage and coordination of youth volunteers ($11,000) which cannot proceed until the archaeological study and training curriculum are completed. Lastly, we over-estimated the hours needed by the Steering Committee members to do their initial work on an appropriate governing structure and will have a balance of $9,000 to roll over to the next contract for their work. That totals $25,500 to be rolled over to the next contract which includes the archaeological work as approved by the PONC Commission in Sept. 2023. MOP would also like an answer from the County regarding whether they intend to do the land survey or should it remain in the MOP FY 2024-25 application for us to complete that task. The quote may need to be updated due to inflation. (2a) Botanical Survey and Identification of Invasive Plant Species The goal to produce a comprehensive vegetation study— complete with assessments of native and invasive plants and maps—was completed, and the final version of the study is attached. Between 11/23 and 2/24, botanical specialists Jon Rathbun and Will Stein set up their GIS system, determined their transects, and conducted more than three full field days of systematic observations. During this time, in addition to the expected study of vascular plants, they collected preliminary data on marine algae, mosses, liverworts, lichens, fungi, and animals. From 2/1/24 to 5/14/24 the vegetative study was authored, including research for literature review, methodological 2 calculations, generation of mapping, composing/editing of photographs, and basic layout. From 5/14/24 to 6/25/24, the paper underwent extensive review, being proofed by volunteer amateur editors Diga Kern, Norris Thomlinson, and Ann Kobsa. In-kind editing was also contributed by credentialed botanists Rex Palmer and Cindy (Jaya) DuPuis. In addition, the study was reviewed by Leila Kealoha from the Steering Committee Formation group, who will be adding a forward this summer. (2b) Resource Management Assessment Over the course of the summer, and based in part on the vegetation survey findings, Leila Kealoha will conduct a conservation-oriented inventory of resources to be used by the Steering Committee in shaping future management planning. (3a) Control of Little Fire Ant The goals for this category were to continue regular LFA barrier maintenance, to test for LFA along the more than 1.5 miles of unestablished boundary, and to treat and ongoingly maintain any infestations discovered. All goals were completed. Contractor Geoffrey ‘Diga’ Kern took over barrier maintenance work from volunteer Ann Kobsa who had regularly treated 350m/1148ft of the S Mauka border since January, 2022. This section was tested every 12 weeks using peanut butter on locally-fashioned bamboo testing sticks every 15-18 ft. At places where the LFA had managed to cross the barrier (due to pig activity or falling from extended tree branches), testing sticks were used in grid or transect patterns to determine the extent of the incursion, to be finally marked with survey tape. A Bifenthrin treatment was then applied to the infested terrain. In addition, every 6 weeks an 8 foot strip of Bifenthin was applied along the entire barrier. Due to early observation of high LFA concentrations along about 1/3 of this trail, which resulted in frequent incursions across the barrier, on 12/26/23 selected “weed” trees were felled to minimize tree-to-tree contact (a known LFA vector). In addition, a secondary 15-18 foot stream of Bifenthrin was applied along these 3 areas of concentration to slow the spread of LFA populations. By February, 2024, the LFA pressure along this section of border was stabilized, providing time for other work. As efforts began to locate survey pins and clear border, LFA was encountered by Will Stein and Ann Kobsa who were stung at a remote corner near the Kalaemanu ‘haubush’ road. The 6000ft2 extent of this incursion was tested, treated twice with Avaunt gel bait (alternating between beef liver powder and peanut butter ‘masking’ material), and re-tested from 2/11 - 5/10. A 6 week Bifenthrin routine was then established and maintained. As border trail was established, it became possible to test long sections of the property’s perimeter, using the above-described technique. This was done on 5/9/24 (1212m/3976ft), 5/10/24 (363m/1191ft), and 6/8/24 (964m/3163ft). In addition, roughly 15,000ft2 of highly vulnerable beach-head (because of regular human activity) and 100m of illegal ATV trail were tested. Including the previous testing at the Kalaemanu corner, these efforts amounted to roughly 1.5 miles (2410m/7907ft) of PONC funded testing. All testing was negative, save for one significant incursion at the beginning of the Alanui Kahakai, amounting to roughly 18,000ft2. From 5/9 to 5/28 this incursion was tested and twice treated with Avaunt gel bait, with the same technique as described above. Because of the size of this incursion, follow-up testing and a second round of two baitings is projected to be required in the 3rd quarter of 2024. The remote Hau Forest section of boundary (8% of entire boundary) could not be tested, because the thickness of the forest will require a major effort to penetrate with trail work. However, because human activity is the LFAs main vector, because no LFA were found near 4 this remote section, and because this area was traversed twice (3/30 and 5/7) with no stings occurring, it is highly unlikely that LFA are present. In summary, we are extremely fortunate that the interior of Wai`ele is most probably LFA-free. Going into the future, it is recommended that interior work such as the establishment of auxiliary trails be accompanied by LFA testing, in order to verify this tentative conclusion. Continued vigilance will also be required from volunteers and workers to not inadvertently introduce LFA carried on foodstuffs, equipment, or vegetative propagation materials/potted plant keiki. For 2024-25, LFA maintenance will be transitioning to Hawai`i Environmental Restoration. As Wai`ele gradually experiences more human presence, the more potent chemicals required for initial LFA treatment and stabilization can be transitioned to a less toxic treatment. In consultation with the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s Little Fire Ant Lab, a plan to use S- methoprene (Tango) gel bait as a LFA buffer at Wai`ele is being developed. For the three existing pressure points (S Mauka trail, Kalaemanu corner, and Alanui Kahakai corner) this plan will implement gel bait treatments (6 weeks) and testing (12 weeks) at the same intervals as at the present. Initial projections indicate this work can be accomplished within the $5,647.00 budgeted. After the first year of treatments, the frequency of treatment can be halved, although testing must continue at the same intervals. For the rest of the borders, testing every 16 weeks will be sufficient to nip any new incursions in the bud. Diga Kern also recommends that additional tree-to-tree contact work takes place at all three incursion points, in order to minimize costly re-testing and bait treatments. This work will complement the upcoming fencing contract and will maximize effectiveness of the buffers. (3b) Control of Invasive Plants Completion of the botanical study in June 2024 provided plant control workers with GIS data to locate and selectively treat aggressive individuals of species such as Ficus microcarpa, Falcataria moluccana, Passiflora laurifolia, Macaranga tanarius, and Schinus terebinthifolius. This work will be prioritized by Will Stein during the three months of summer, 2024. (4) Marine Debris Removal A major volunteer beach cleanup event was held on 12/31/23. Leading up to the event, paid and volunteer trail preparation, promotion, coordination, and supplies work was conducted to make the event smooth. We teamed with Keone Kalawe for parking, supplies, and roadside- 5 transfer station pickup; with Clive Cheetham and crew for truck use and transfer station run; and with the Koa`e Community Association for volunteers. Twenty-seven volunteer contributed a total of 96 hours of work, to achieve 1500# of trash hauled from the Beach Rd and the coast, from Wai`ele to Kalaemanu. Following the event, Diga Kern donated a short edited video of the event, uploaded to MOPs YouTube Channel and the the Koa`e Community FaceBook page, with a reach of 64 and 57 views, respectively. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPv9ugA9WJw&t=27s) A second cooperative Hawai`i Environmental Restoration / Malama O Puna beach cleanup is planned for 7/13/24. A survey of the coast has revealed significant new amounts of flotsam/jetsam between Kalaemanu and Wai`ele, so the cleanup’s route and scope will be similar to the 12/31 event. In addition, volunteers will collect `opala left by pakalolo growers in the hau forest near Kalaemanu. This event is projected to capture 1 ton (2000#) of trash with the help of 35 volunteers, 3 paid coordinators, and two trucks. (5a) Trail Maintenance & Signage The goals for this budget category were to maintain Wai`ele’s three sections of pre-existing trail, to locate boundary survey pins, and to create trails along all borders. All goals were completed. 6 Wai`ele has three sections of pre-existing trail, the Alanui Kahakai, the Makai Access Trail, and the South Mauka Border Trail’s old section. In preparation for the 12/31/23 MOP coastal cleanup, a group of two volunteers and one contractor realigned, cleared, maintained, and refreshed red ti plantings along 1411m/4256 ft of access and prehistoric trail. A similar effort involving a larger number of volunteers and contractors will be accomplished during the first 2 weeks of July for the MOP/HER community coastal cleanup event on 7/13/24. On 1/26/24, work began identifying survey pins along the borders, with the intention of establishing border trails for the property. On 3/30/24, 3 contractors and one volunteer completed the survey pin identification work, resulting in 12 of 17 pins being located. Provisional pin locations were established for the remaining 5 locations, by cross-referencing between GIS data and digital compass orienteering. Border trail establishment took place between 4/13 and 6/8, with primarily one contractor accomplishing the work. A combination of digital compass orienteering and survey tape flagging allowed gradual determination of straight lines between survey pins. Electric chainsaw, loppers, and hand tools were used to cut living and dead “weed” trees to clear obstructions. Native trees were circumnavigated rather than cut. Fortunately, minimal cutting of canoe plants was necessary. Logs and rocks were moved to the side as needed. In total, over a mile (1741m/5712ft) of new border trail was established. Because of low Little Fire Ant incursion risk and degree of difficulty, the remote Hau Forest (246m/807ft, 8% of entire border) section remains the only section not attempted. Informational signage needs to be developed after the completion of the archaeological study. The consultant doing this study will also work with Keone Kalawe and produce a curriculum for training youth volunteers in how to identify and preserve 7 Signage provided by the County through Maxine Cutler has been prominently placed notifying ATV users that their motorized activities are illegal on County property. Property boundary signage has been deferred until after completion of fencing in the 2024-25 cycle. As suggested, DOFAWs Na Ala Hele has been researched as a possible partner for Wai`ele’s Alanui Kahakai. Ownership and access of the ancient trail is complicated because the trail straddles two properties and no parking facilities exist. As the Steering Committee forms and begins making management decisions, association with Na Ala Hele and additional signage will re-considered. (5b) Coordination of Community Volunteers Over the course of the grant period, Diga Kern has assembled the crews of trail maintenance, survey pin identification, trail-making, botanical, and marine debris removal volunteers and contractors. He has communicated, planned, and coordinated reporting/invoicing/compliance for these activities, keeping track of them on a comprehensive spreadsheet, attached. Once the curriculum package is developed with the assistance of the archaeological consultant and Keone Kalawe, efforts to bring groups of youthful volunteers on site will commence. (6) Steering Committee Activities The three members of the Steering Committee, Keone Kalawe, Iopa Maunakea, and Leila Kealoha have held four meetings since the contract was received in November 2023. The work 8 have worked at forming a protocol for the composition and selection of a long term Steering Committee developing a model that could be replicated by other PONC stewardship groups. Due to schedules and work commitments, they have not completed their work on this initial stage and plan to have 1-2 more meetings over the summer to take the draft plan they’ve developed to a final report. CONCLUSION For the seven months during which County funds have been available, MOP has expended 52% of its budget towards the below activities. The table does not reflect some expenditures towards the Steering Committee Formation group. The botanical survey is complete, and the bulk of Little Fire Ant control and Trail Maintenance activities are accomplished. In the coming five months, focus will be put on control of invasive plants, continued LFA maintenance, creating of auxiliary interior trails, and a large marine debris removal event. MOP anticipates that this work will all come in below budget, with a some activities rolling over to the FY24-25. CATEGORY $ ACTIVITIES BUDGET $ SPENT % REM- AINING $ IN-KIND BUDGET $ DON- ATED % REM- AINING botanical survey and identification $4950 $4754 4% $1000 $1120 -12% control of invasive little fire ant $3960 $2936 26% $0 $455 ~ control of invasive plants $1980 $0 100% $0 $0 ~ marine debris removal $990 $93 91% $500 $1555 -211% trail maintenance & signage $4950 $2751 44% $1000 $442 56% coordination of community volunteers $4950 $770 84% $2000 $315 84% TOTAL $21780 $11304 48% $4500 $3887 14% MOP continues its tradition of robust volunteer activity, with 86% of its in-kind commitments already being accomplished. In addition to unpaid volunteers, MOP contractors themselves continue to donate a portion of their activities to this important PONC program. By the end of the fiscal year, we project that 60 unique volunteers will have contributed to Wai`ele, contributing roughly 50% more value than budgeted. Stewardship Grant Progress Report, Page 3 of 10 (Use the table format below for details on your project’s activities. Use more than 1 page, if needed. See examples in Instructions.) Type of Activity Completion Date and/or % Complete Contractors/Collaborators F. PROJECT ACTIVITIES FOR CONTRACT NO. Stewardship Grant Progress Report, Page 4 of 10 Type of Activity Completion Date and/or % Complete Contractors/Collaborators F. PROJECT ACTIVITIES FOR CONTRACT NO. (Continued) Stewardship Grant Progress Report, Page 5 of 10 (Please be prepared to provide documentation upon request to the Dept. of Finance.) HI County Charter 10- 16(g) Date(s) of Payment Type of Expense Vendor Number of Receipts Total Amount TOTAL AMOUNT FOR THIS PAGE G.PROJECT RECEIPTS (GRANT FUNDS ONLY) FOR CONTRACT NO. Stewardship Grant Progress Report, Page 6 of 10 HI County Charter 10- 16(g) Date(s) of Payment Type of Expense Vendor Number of Receipts Total Amount TOTAL AMOUNT FOR THIS PAGE G.PROJECT RECEIPTS (GRANT FUNDS ONLY) FOR CONTRACT NO. (Continued) Stewardship Grant Progress Report, Page 7 of 10 HI County Charter 10- 16(g) Date(s) of Payment Type of Expense Vendor Number of Receipts Total Amount TOTAL AMOUNT FOR THIS PAGE TOTAL AMOUNT OF GRANT FUNDS ENCUMBERED/SPENT FOR REPORTING PERIOD GRAND TOTAL OF GRANT FUNDS ENCUMBERED/SPENT (For Annual Report Only) G.PROJECT RECEIPTS (GRANT FUNDS ONLY) FOR CONTRACT NO. (Continued) Stewardship Grant Progress Report, Page 8 of 10 (Use additional pages, if needed. See Instructions.) Date Activity Person/Organization # of Participants Calculation of In- Kind Value Other Resources TOTAL OF IN-KIND VALUES AND OTHER RESOURCES FOR REPORTING PERIOD H. IN-KIND SERVICES AND OTHER RESOURCES FOR CONTRACT NO. Stewardship Grant Progress Report, Page 9 of 10 Date Activity Person/Organization # of Participants Calculation of In- Kind Value Other Resources TOTAL OF IN-KIND VALUES AND OTHER RESOURCES FOR REPORTING PERIOD GRAND TOTAL OF IN-KIND VALUES AND OTHER RESOURCES (For Annual Report Only) H. IN-KIND SERVICES AND OTHER RESOURCES FOR CONTRACT NO. (Continued) Stewardship Grant Progress Report, Page 10 of 10 (Attach copy of any warranty documents.) Item Description Cost Purchase Date Model/Serial No. Location TOTAL COST I. EQUIPMENT INVENTORY ≥ $1,000.00 (GRANT FUNDS ONLY) FOR CONTRACT NO. 1 Wai’ele Steering Committee Working Papers June 30, 2024 The work provided is in draft form and represents work done over multfple meetfngs to establish guidelines for creatfon of Steering or Guidance Committees to assist with the stewardship of culturally sensitfve propertfes in Hawaii. This effort is specific to the Wai’ele in Puna, but represents ideas and approaches from a consortfum of individuals and groups engaged in attempts to steward lands that are of importance to our natfve Hawaiian populatfon, are critfcal habitat for indigenous plant and animal species, and which need to be preserved and managed in an inclusive way that draws in the expertfse and energies of the communitfes where these lands are situated. These working papers lay a basis for a final report which will be developed over the course of a couple more meetfngs of the Steering Committee. We are sharing these drafts to give the County assurance that this work is being done, it’s important and we hope will provide a framework for assistfng other communitfes to form their own stewardship steering committees. 2 (1 person can be two sharing 1 vote) 50% of the votes will come from this category o Kupuna – 2 votes o Makua – 2 votes o ‘Opio – 1 vote 25% of the votes will come from this category (1 person can be two sharing 1 vote) o Scientffic Community Members – 2 votes 25% of the votes will come from this category (1 person can be two sharing 1 vote) o Neighbor, Community Member – 2 votes 3 Waiʻele Advisory Council (Hawaiian Name for below terms?) Guidelines & Regulatory Measures Executive Summary The purpose of the development of guidelines and regulatory measures are to identffy the purpose, scope and authority of an Advisory council to make decisions about land stewardship at Waiʻele, Puna, Hawaii. This document will serve as the guidelines and regulatory measures for the advisory council. Establishment and Authority of Malama O Puna 1. Establishment Malama O Puna is a 501 c(3) nonprofit established in ? in the land management and stewardship practfces of Waiʻele, Puna, Hawaii. Malama O Puna is a Hawai‘i non-profit corporatfon and 501(c)(3) volunteer service organizatfon which focuses on the environment. Our mission is to assure critfcal habitat for natfve species and open space for future generatfons through environmental ed. Insert MOP Mission 2. PONC (land ownership) a. Who are they and what they do b. Stewardship agreement with Malama O Puna c. Waiʻele Descriptfon 3. Management/Stewardship plan development a. MOP is working on the creatfon of the Stewardship plan 4. Viability a. The PONC Commission awarded Malama O Puna a Stewardship grant to develop an advisory committee to engage lineal and cultural descendants in the stewardship of Waiʻele. b. The focus is about the protectfon and preservatfon of the natural and cultural resources, promotfng sustainable land management practfces, engaging the local community and enhancing ecological and cultural resilience Establishment and Authority of Waiʻele Advisory Council 1. Establishment and Authority of the Advisory Council 4 a. The Wai’ele Advisory council was established to address the needs and challenges related to: a. Cultural preservatfon: to raise awareness of the cultural significance of Wai’ele and the surrounding region and promote actfvitfes that preserve and celebrate our cultural heritage b. Environmental stewardship: to advocate for and implement sustainable land and resource management practfces that protect the environment and support our local economy c. Community engagement: fostering collaboratfons to build partnerships among various stakeholders including local residents, government agencies and nonprofit organizatfons to achieve our common goals b. The council was formed to provide to strategic guidance, facilitate collaboratfon and ensure that initfatfves in the region align with the values and goals of lineal and cultural descendants and our local community c. Malama O Puna wants to ensure that individuals with ancestral tfes to Wai‘ele direct the planning of long term maintenance and stewardship actfvitfes. To that end we have been working with three individuals who will help create a steering committee that is fully inclusive of current community as well as honoring those families and ohana with ancestral connectfons to the Wai’ele. Keone Kalawe, antfcipated to be recognized by SHPD as the lineal descendent of the Wai’ele, is already recognized as the foremost ancestral representatfve of the area. He is involved with the maintenance and preservatfon of the KSBE’s Kahuwai adjacent to the Wai’ele. In additfon, he is recognized as a direct lineal descendants of the area of Cape Kumukahi. Iopa MaunaKea also has ancestral tfes to Wai’ele. He has also taken as his kuleana the management and preservatfon of many areas along this sectfon of the Puna coast including the adjacent areas to the Wai’ele. With the help of the former President of Malama O Puna, Iopa founded the Men of Pa’a, an organizatfon known for its extensive community service. Leila Kealoha also maintains close ancestral tfes to the lands along this sectfon of the Puna coastline. Leila is the President/Chair of Pohaku Pelemaka, a nonprofit the works with ‘ohana representfng the lands from Kalapana to Kumukahi. With the involvement of these natfve Hawaiians with ancestral tfes to this sectfon of Puna’s coastline, we will be guided in the development of a steering committee that will direct the long-term maintenance planning and annual stewardship actfvitfes. During the twelve-month grant period and in additfon to assistfng in stewardship actfvitfes as noted above, these three individuals will: 1) Research the ancestral families who stfll maintain a presence in the community surrounding Wai'ele and who may wish to partfcipate in the Steering Committee, 5 2) Identffy community members other than the three consultants and Malama O Puna board members who have an interest in serving on this committee, 3) Set up a process that ensures all persons appointed to the Steering committee agree to respectiul behavior as members of the Steering Committee, 4) Set up a protocol for deciding who will be members of the Steering Committee, 5) Identffy how the Steering Committee will functfon with regard to holding regular meetfngs, tfme and place for such meetfngs, and establish rules of behavior for the meetfngs. 6) Identffy the scope of services to be provided by the Steering Committee (e.g. review and approve annual stewardship applicatfons, assist in specific tasks related to stewardship, establish a vision and mission for a comprehensive management plan.) 2. Mission, Vision, and Executfve Summary Mission: The mission of our Hui Pa'a Stewardship Advisory Council is to honor and perpetuate the cultural heritage of Wai'ele, Halepua'a, Puna Makai through sustainable stewardship practfces guided by the wisdom of our ancestors. Vision: Our vision is to create a thriving ecosystem in Wai'ele, Halepua'a, Puna Makai where the land, water, and community flourish in lokahi, guided by the principles of Aloha 'Aina and the expertfse of cultural practftfoners and educators. Executive Summary: The Hui Pa'a Stewardship Advisory Council is a collaboratfon between Malama O Puna; Ke Aloha 'Aina Foundatfon, LLC; Kalawe 'Ohana; Kuamo'o Legacy Foundatfon; and Kauhale Kanaka O Puna that aims to preserve and revitalize the cultural and ecological integrity of Wai'ele, Halepua'a, Puna Makai. Our program is rooted in the principle of Aloha 'Aina which emphasizes holistfc approaches to land stewardship, and Kanaka Maoli and community well-being. The advisory council for stewarding Wai'ele, Halepua'a, Puna Makai plays a crucial role in guiding and overseeing the sustainable management of the land. Overall, the advisory council serves as a collaboratfve forum for stakeholders to come together, share perspectfves, and work towards the shared goal of preserving and perpetuatfng the cultural and ecological integrity of Wai'ele, Halepua'a, Puna Makai for present and future generatfons. Through this initfatfve, we will engage cultural practftfoners and educators to steward best practfces for Wai'ele, Halepua'a, Puna Makai. Our actfvitfes will include: ● Cultural Workshops and Educatfon: Hostfng workshops led by cultural practftfoners to share traditfonal knowledge and practfces related to land stewardship, agriculture, and resource management. 6 ● Restoratfon Projects: Implementfng restoratfon projects guided by cultural protocols to rehabilitate degraded areas, restore natfve vegetatfon, and enhance biodiversity. ● Community Engagement: Facilitatfng community events and kokua opportunitfes to foster a sense of stewardship and collectfve responsibility for the Wai'ele, Halepua'a, Puna Makai. ● Monitoring and Assessment: Conductfng initfal and regular assessments of the ecological health of Wai'ele, Halepua'a, Puna Makai, utflizing traditfonal ecological knowledge and modern scientffic methods. ● Capacity Building: Providing training and support for community members interested in becoming stewards of the land, empowering them to take an actfve role in conservatfon efforts. By integratfng the values and practfces of Hui Pa'a with the expertfse of Malama O Puna and local cultural practftfoners, we aspire to create a resilient and regeneratfve landscape that serves as a model for sustainable land stewardship across Wai'ele, Halepua'a. Together, we will honor the legacy of our ancestors while ensuring a vibrant future for generatfons to come. Core Values Kanaka Maoli practfce the traditfonal core values of our kupuna and the customary practfces within Wai'ele. This includes 'ohana, which emphasizes the importance of family, both immediate and extended. Aloha/Malamaa: Embrace and practfce the spirit of aloha in all interactfons, fostering love, compassion, and respect for oneself, others, and the environment. Kuleana (Responsibility): Acknowledge and honor our responsibility to care for the land, community, and future generatfons, recognizing that we are stewards of our cultural and natural heritage. Ho'okipa (Hospitality): Extend warmth, welcome, and hospitality to all, creatfng inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered. Laulima (Collaboration):Embrace the power of working together harmoniously, recognizing that collectfve effort and collaboratfon yield greater impact and success than individual actfons. Pono (Righteousness): Uphold integrity, honesty, and ethical conduct in all endeavors, striving to do what is right and just for the well-being of all. 3. Advisory Council Defined 4. Guidelines & Regulatory Measures will act as the governing document of the Waiʻele Advisory Council. Guidelines & Regulatory Measures describes the objectfves and roles of the Advisory Council including procedural requirements regarding the appointment of council members, requirements for the conduct of council members, meetfngs, and other requirements. All Advisory Council actfvitfes shall be conducted pursuant to Guidelines & Regulatory Measures. EDIT? 7 a. The Waiʻele Advisory Council’s core functfon is to provide the land stewardship and management decisions for Waiʻele. Scope and Powers 1. Purpose The purpose of the Wai’ele advisory council is to serve as the guiding voice for making management decisions within Waiʻele. To provide strategic guidance and oversight for the conservatfon and sustainable management of Waiʻele ahupua’a natural and cultural resources. The council aims to ensure that initfatfves within the region align with community values and prioritfes while promotfng cultural preservatfon, environmental stewardship and community engagement. 1. Cultural Preservatfon: safeguard cultural heritage, works to preserve the cultural and historical significance of the Wai’ele regions, by integratfng traditfonal knowledge practfces into stewardship actfvitfes 2. Promote cultural awareness: develop educatfonal programs and events to raise awareness about the region's culture heritage and its importance to the community 2. Scope of Manaʻo The Waiʻele Advisory Council will share its ʻike on various subjects and areas including: cultural, physical, biological, economic, educatfonal, and community issues impactfng Waiʻele and the surrounding region. The Waiʻele Advisory Council shall share its mana‘o within the limitatfons of its powers found in Sectfon 3 below. 3. Limitation of Powers Malama O Puna recognizes the collectfve ʻike of the Wai’ele Advisory Council and the thoughts and opinions will be used as the final decision making process. As such, the Wai’ele Advisory Council is authorized and empowered to perform operatfonal and management functfons. In additfon, the Waiʻele Advisory Council is authorized and empowered to govern, enforce, dictate, or mandate, policies, plans, decisions, or acts, as it relates to MOP and PONC. Lineal descendants will ultfmately have the final say when it comes to culturally sensitfve issues, i.e., Iwi kupuna, etc Membership 1. Number of Members The Waiʻele Advisory Council shall consist of a minimum of three (3) members and a maximum of seven (7) votfng members. There needs to be an odd number of members at any given tfme for votfng purposes and there is no tfe-vote. There are no non-votfng members. Malama O Puna may have a representatfve present at meetfngs to share manaʻo. 8 2. Selection process The selectfon process will consist of each applicant filing out an applicatfon form. The existfng advisory council and the land management agency or organizatfon representatfve will use a weighted process to review each applicant. It is important to have a balanced membership on the council. The advisory council shall consist of no less than three (3) lineal descendants to begin this process, then it will include two members of the community. The community members shall have one representatfve from the scientffic community and one community member who has been vested in the area of Waiʻele and who has been serving as a kokua. a. Lineal descendants: may include one (1) each of the following: i. Kupuna ii. Makua iii. ʻOpio b. Two community members: scientffic community, members vested within the community doing kokua work. The latter of the two will be referred to as a “General member.” c. Applicatfon 3. Alaka’i/kumu a. One member shall serve as the person who will lead the council meetfngs b. The council will designate a secondary person to lead the meetfngs in the event the alaka’i/kumu is not available 4. Member terms a. Lineal descendants i. Kupuna- 4 years ii. Makua- 3 years iii. ʻOpio- 2 years b. Community members i. Scientffic-3 years ii. General member- 2 years c. Designated beneficiaries i. Each member of the council shall designate a secondary beneficiary to attend or partfcipate in meetfngs and decision making in the event they are not able to attend meetfngs d. In the event there is a vacant seat, the council is responsible for filling that seat as soon as possible. In this circumstance, there shall be no meetfngs or decision making untfl the vacant seat is filled 5. Additional terms 9 a. At the conclusion of a members term, such member may apply for an additfonal term b. Lineal descendants may serve two consecutfve terms. Lineal descendants may serve two terms, then have a break in a term, then apply for another term after the break c. If there are no new candidates available for the lineal descendant members seat, then the existfng member may serve an additfonal term on a year-to-year basis d. Community members may serve two consecutfve terms 6. Termination Advisory council members may be terminated if they exude the listed conditfons below amd may be grounds for dismissal at the discretfon of other advisory board members: a. Does not abide by the core values guiding the Waiʻele advisory council b. Convictfon or judgment for violatfon of federal, state, or county, laws, regulatfons, or administratfve rules, relatfng to the protectfon of land, environment and/or cultural resources c. Is determined the have abused his/her positfon as a member of the advisory council (including, but not limited to, use of the advisory council informatfon for person gain; use of the advisory council positfon to advance personal agenda or to harm another member of the advisory council or community; misrepresentatfon of, or spreading misinformatfon about the advisory council or MOP, PONC; and refusal to recuse himself/herself if so requested by other advisory council members in a matter in which the member is perceived to have a conflict of interest d. Has a change to the professional affiliatfon(s) and/or circumstances that comprise a significant portfon of that members qualificatfons for being a member of the advisory council e. Misses three consecutfve meetfngs without reasonable justfficatfon f. Disrupts meetfngs on one or more occasion, in a manner that significantly interferes with the advisory council conductfng its business 7. Resignatfon Members who wish to resign from their positfon shall give the Advisory council and the MOP coordinator with 30-days written notfce so that arrangements can be made to fill the vacancy as soon as possible. If this positfon is not filled the council will make all attempts to fill the positfon 8. Balanced membership 10 An advisory council that is balanced in terms of interest, geographic representatfon, skills, knowledge, and expertfse will provide the greatest benefit towards the stewardship of Waiʻele. Accordingly, MOP and the initfal advisory council members will select applicants, to the extent feasible, that demonstrate skills, knowledge and expertfse in the following key areas, which have been identffied as critfcal to the viability of the stewardship of Waiʻele: a. Cultural resources b. Natural resources c. Biological resources d. Archaeological resources e. Educatfon resources f. Community resources Administration 1. Kokua (Volunteer) Members of the Advisory Council shall serve without compensatfon. 2. Malama O Puna Operation 1. Conduct of members Advisory council members may not use or allow the use, for other than purposes of the Advisory council, any informatfon obtained through or in connectfon with his/her Advisory council affiliatfon that has not been made available to the general public. 2. When speaking to the public or writfng about any matter regarding Wai’ele in a document for distributfon beyond the Wai’ele Advisory Council member membership, such member shall clearly distfnguish those recommendatfons, opinions, or positfons officially adopted by the Wa’iele Advisory Council member as a body from those he or she may have as an individual. In no case shall a member represent his/her individual opinions as those of the Waiʻele Advisory Council member orWaiʻele Advisory Council member . 3. Any Wai’ele Advisory Council member who has a conflict of interest (financial, personal, professional, etc.) in any matter before the Waiʻele Advisory Council member or its Subcommittees or Working Groups, shall declare the conflict and excuse himself or herself from any actfon on that matter, including discussion and votfng actfons. The Advisory council Chair will bring it to the council to determine if a conflict of interests 11 exists or not. If the chair is not present at the meetfng, then the vice-chair will consult with the council. 4. Conduct of Advisory Council Body a. The Wai’ele Advisory Council shall not provide advice or make recommendatfons regarding Wai’ele to anyone other than MOP. The Wai’ele Advisory Council shall not perform operatfonal or management functfons, and has no authority to make decisions or express policy on behalf of MOP. Any advice, correspondence or informatfon that the Wai’ele Advisory Council wishes to share or express to others beyond MOP must be submitted to and be approved by the MOP Coordinator prior to any Wai’ele Advisory Council statement/actfon. b. Any communicatfons (oral or written), i.e., correspondence, press releases, informatfonal releases, news artfcles, or other written documents, that are intended to represent the Wai’ele Advisory Council as a body must be submitted to and be approved by the MOP Coordinator, in collaboratfon with MOP’s Executfve Director or assignee. The following disclaimer shall be placed in documents originatfng from the Wai’ele Advisory Council. The opinions and findings of this body do not necessarily reflect the positfon of the Malama O Puna and the County of Hawaii, PONC.” Committees 1. Subcommittees and Groups a. The Wai’ele advisory council may have subcommittees and groups to execute initfatfves Land Management Coordinator/Liaison 1. Malama O Puna Coordinator/Liaison- a. The Executfve Director or designee shall serve as the liaison to the Waiʻele advisory council b. The Waiʻele Advisory Council shall work with the Malama O Puna in the stewardship of Wai’ele Malama O Puna, as the grant and PONC awardees, will play a crucial role in the stewardship and management of the awarded property and the implementatfon of various conservatfon and community engagement initfatfves. Here are the specific roles and responsibilitfes they can assume: Roles and Responsibilities of Malama O Puna: 12 1. Stewardship and Conservation: ● Land Management: Overseeing the maintenance and restoratfon of the awarded property, ensuring that it is managed sustainably and in alignment with conservatfon goals. ● Native Species Restoration: Implementfng projects to restore natfve plant and animal species, removing invasive species, and enhancing the biodiversity of the area. ● Environmental Monitoring: Conductfng regular monitoring of the ecosystem to track the health and progress of conservatfon efforts. Community Engagement and Education: ● Educational Programs: Developing and delivering educational programs and workshops to raise awareness about environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and sustainable practices among local residents and visitors. ● Kokua Coordination: Establishing kokua programs to involve the community in hands-on conservation activities, such as tree planting, habitat restoration, and clean-up efforts. ● Community Events: Organizing community events, cultural celebrations, and educational tours to foster a sense of stewardship and connection to the land. 3. Cultural Preservation: ● Integration of Traditional Knowledge: Collaborating with cultural practitioners to integrate traditional ecological knowledge and practices into stewardship activities. ● Cultural Heritage Projects: Supporting projects that document, preserve, and celebrate the cultural history and significance of the area. 4. Resource Management: ● Grant Management: Effectively managing the funds received through the grant, ensuring that they are used efficiently and transparently to achieve project goals. ● Partnership Development: Building partnerships with other organizations, government agencies, and stakeholders to leverage additional resources and expertise. 5. Advocacy and Policy: ● Policy Advocacy: Advocating for policies and practices at the local and state level that support environmental conservation and cultural preservation. ● Community Representation: Serving as a representative for the community’s interests in discussions and decisions related to land use and environmental protection. 6. Reporting and Accountability: 13 ● Progress Reporting: Providing regular reports to the funding bodies, stakeholders, and the community on the progress and outcomes of funded projects. ● Transparency and Accountability: Ensuring transparency in the use of funds and accountability in the implementation of projects. Example Initiatives: ● Revegetation Projects: Planting native species to restore degraded areas and enhance habitat quality. ● Cultural Workshops: Hosting workshops on traditional land management practices, Hawaiian language, and cultural history. ● Public Access Improvements: Enhancing public access to natural and cultural sites in a way that is respectful and sustainable. By taking on these roles, Malamaa O Puna can ensure that the awarded grant and PONC funds are used effectively to create lasting positive impacts on the environment and community in the Waiʻele region. Their efforts will help preserve the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the area while fostering a strong sense of community stewardship 2. Communicatfons/Decisions made by the board a. The board will bring the recommendatfons to the council Meetings 1. Frequency The Waiʻele Advisory Council shall meet on a monthly basis. Special meetfngs may be called to order, if necessary. 2. Minutes Minutes will be recorded by a designated member of the council. The minutes will be stored in Google Drive. They can be made available upon written request. 3. Kanaka maoli rules All advisory council members will abide by and adhere to core values of the council. Amendments 1. Amendment process Amendments will be brought to the council by a member and be discussed and voted on by the council members 14 Ratification 1. Ratfficatfon of the Advisory Council The membership of the Advisory Council member will be consented and agreed upon with executfon of the signature below. ________________________________________ ______________________ Date Eileen O’Hara, Executfve Director Malamaa O Puna 15 Roles and Responsibilities of Malama O Puna: Puna, as the grant and PONC awardees, will play a crucial role in the stewardship and management of the awarded property and the implementatfon of various conservatfon and community engagement initfatfves. Here are the specific roles and responsibilitfes they can assume: 1. Stewardship and Conservation: • Land Management: Overseeing the maintenance and restoratfon of the awarded property, ensuring that it is managed sustainably and in alignment with conservatfon goals. • Native Species Restoration: Implementfng projects to restore natfve plant and animal species, removing invasive species, and enhancing the biodiversity of the area. • Environmental Monitoring: Conductfng regular monitoring of the ecosystem to track the health and progress of conservatfon efforts. 2. Community Engagement and Education: • Educational Programs: Developing and delivering educatfonal programs and workshops to raise awareness about environmental conservatfon, cultural preservatfon, and sustainable practfces among local residents and visitors. • Volunteer Coordination: Establishing volunteer programs to involve the community in hands-on conservatfon actfvitfes, such as tree plantfng, habitat restoratfon, and clean-up efforts. • Community Events: Organizing community events, cultural celebratfons, and educatfonal tours to foster a sense of stewardship and connectfon to the land. 3. Cultural Preservation: • Integration of Traditional Knowledge: Collaboratfng with cultural practftfoners to integrate traditfonal ecological knowledge and practfces into stewardship actfvitfes. • Cultural Heritage Projects: Supportfng projects that document, preserve, and celebrate the cultural history and significance of the area. 4. Resource Management: • Grant Management: Effectfvely managing the funds received through the grant, ensuring that they are used efficiently and transparently to achieve project goals. • Partnership Development: Building partnerships with other organizatfons, government agencies, and stakeholders to leverage additfonal resources and expertfse. 5. Advocacy and Policy: • Policy Advocacy: Advocatfng for policies and practfces at the local and state level that support environmental conservatfon and cultural preservatfon. • Community Representation: Serving as a representatfve for the community’s interests in discussions and decisions related to land use and environmental protectfon. 16 6. Reporting and Accountability: • Progress Reporting: Providing regular reports to the funding bodies, stakeholders, and the community on the progress and outcomes of funded projects. • Transparency and Accountability: Ensuring transparency in the use of funds and accountability in the implementatfon of projects. Example Initiatives: • Revegetation Projects: Plantfng natfve species to restore degraded areas and enhance habitat quality. • Cultural Workshops: Hostfng workshops on traditfonal land management practfces, Hawaiian language, and cultural history. • Public Access Improvements: Enhancing public access to natural and cultural sites in a way that is respectiul and sustainable. By taking on these roles, Malama O Puna can ensure that the awarded grant and PONC funds are used effectfvely to create lastfng positfve impacts on the environment and community in the Waiele region. Their efforts will help preserve the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the area while fostering a strong sense of community stewardship (website) (West Hawaii Today) (Hawaii Tribune-Herald). 17 Hui Pa'a Stewardship Advisory Council Mission, Vision, and Executive Summary Mission: The mission of our Hui Pa'a Stewardship Advisory Council is to honor and perpetuate the cultural heritage of Wai'ele, Halepua'a, Puna Makai through sustainable stewardship practices guided by the wisdom of our ancestors. Vision: Our vision is to create a thriving ecosystem in Wai'ele, Halepua'a, Puna Makai where the land, water, and community flourish in lokahi, guided by the principles of Aloha 'Aina and the expertise of cultural practitioners and educators. Executive Summary: The Hui Pa'a Stewardship Advisory Council is a collaboration between Malama O Puna; Ke Aloha 'Aina Foundation, LLC; Kalawe 'Ohana; Kuamo'o Legacy Foundation; and Kauhale Kanaka O Puna that aims to preserve and revitalize the cultural and ecological integrity of Wai'ele, Halepua'a, Puna Makai. Our program is rooted in the principle of Aloha 'Aina which emphasizes holistic approaches to land stewardship, and Kanaka Maoli and community well-being. The advisory council for stewarding Wai'ele, Halepua'a, Puna Makai plays a crucial role in guiding and overseeing the sustainable management of the land. Overall, the advisory council serves as a collaborative forum for stakeholders to come together, share perspectives, and work towards the shared goal of preserving and perpetuating the cultural and ecological integrity of Wai'ele, Halepua'a, Puna Makai for present and future generations. Through this initiative, we will engage cultural practitioners and educators to steward best practices for Wai'ele, Halepua'a, Puna Makai. Our activities will include: ● Cultural Workshops and Education: Hosting workshops led by cultural practitioners to share traditional knowledge and practices related to land stewardship, agriculture, and resource management. ● Restoration Projects: Implementing restoration projects guided by cultural protocols to rehabilitate degraded areas, restore native vegetation, and enhance biodiversity. 18 ● Community Engagement: Facilitating community events and volunteer opportunities to foster a sense of stewardship and collective responsibility for the Wai'ele, Halepua'a, Puna Makai. ● Monitoring and Assessment: Conducting initial and regular assessments of the ecological health of Wai'ele, Halepua'a, Puna Makai, utilizing traditional ecological knowledge and modern scientific methods. ● Capacity Building: Providing training and support for community members interested in becoming stewards of the land, empowering them to take an active role in conservation efforts. By integrating the values and practices of Hui Pa'a with the expertise of Malama O Puna and local cultural practitioners, we aspire to create a resilient and regenerative landscape that serves as a model for sustainable land stewardship across Wai'ele, Halepua'a. Together, we will honor the legacy of our ancestors while ensuring a vibrant future for generations to come. Core Values Kanaka Maoli practice the traditional core values of our kupuna and the customary practices within Wai'ele. This includes 'ohana, which emphasizes the importance of family, both immediate and extended. Aloha/Malama: Embrace and practice the spirit of aloha in all interactions, fostering love, compassion, and respect for oneself, others, and the environment. Kuleana (Responsibility): Acknowledge and honor our responsibility to care for the land, community, and future generations, recognizing that we are stewards of our cultural and natural heritage. Ho'okipa (Hospitality): Extend warmth, welcome, and hospitality to all, creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered. Laulima (Collaboration):Embrace the power of working together harmoniously, recognizing that collective effort and collaboration yield greater impact and success than individual actions. Pono (Righteousness): Uphold integrity, honesty, and ethical conduct in all endeavors, striving to do what is right and just for the well-being of all. 19 Wahi pana Steering Committee Model Tasks: During the twelve-month grant period and in additfon to assistfng in stewardship actfvitfes as noted above, these three individuals will: 1) Research the ancestral families who stfll maintain a presence in the community surrounding Wai'ele and who may wish to partfcipate in the Steering Committee ● Reach out to Aunty Didi, Uncle ? Kamoku, Jennifer Waipa 2) Identffy community members other than the three consultants and Malama O Puna board members who have an interest in serving on this committee, 3) Set up a process that ensures all persons appointed to the Steering committee agree to respectiul behavior as members of the Steering Committee, 4) Set up a protocol for deciding who will be members of the Steering Committee, 5) Identffy how the Steering Committee will functfon with regard to holding regular meetfngs, tfme and place for such meetfngs, and establish rules of behavior for the meetfngs. 6) Identffy the scope of services to be provided by the Steering Committee (e.g. review and approve annual stewardship applicatfons, assist in specific tasks related to stewardship, establish a vision and mission for a comprehensive management plan 7) Each individual will contribute 110-hours each to this project The recipient of the Steering committee outcomes is ultfmately the land & the people who have a kuleana with the land in questfon This may look like the following: Who should be a part of the committee? Maybe this is called an “Advisory council?” ● Committee/Council ○ Kupuna, Makua, ʻOpio (lineal & cultural descendants) ○ Scientffic community ○ Neighbors that are vetted/vested within the community (people who have been caring for and volunteering for the resources) ● Assign a primary and secondary member in case primary cannot be present 20 ● How long will the terms be? Maybe stagger so that there is overlap and manaʻo, etc is not lost. Ex: Kupuna 3-year term, Makua 4-year term, ʻOpio 3-year term, scientffic 4-year term. ● See “Votfng Rights” document What will members do? ● Volunteer their tfme to serve on this committee/council ● Review Land use proposals for natural and cultural resources on specific ʻaina ● Vote on Land use proposals ● When ● How often? Follow the PONC meetfng schedule? These can be more often if needed? ● Where ● What designated area will be the meetfng space? ● Why ● The intentfon is to allow the community and those who live here an opportunity to have a voice and be a part of the process while ensuring the Kanaka maoli voice is heard, uplifted and may in some/most cases be the final voice. ● Waiele will serve as the pilot model and then this can be replicated in other areas How will the meetings be conducted? ● Roberts Rules? ● Does there need to be a Chair, Vice-chair, and secretary? Who oversees the meetfngs and who will they report too? Who is in charge of them? ● Votfng ○ Ex: ● Where will the notes, agenda, documents, etc be stored? Ho’olauna Kuleana Outcome 1. Completed document that outlines specific details of the above mentfoned categories, including a cover letter 2. Protocols of how to execute the steering committee/council