HomeMy WebLinkAboutComm 26-065 - LOS 26-08 Mills, Peter
Comm 26-065
4-March-2026
TO: PONC Commissioners
Re: HTMK (3) 8-1-027:021
Aloha PONC Commissioners,
My name is Peter Mills, and I humbly submit this testimony in strong support of finding a way to
preserve-tube system)in the TMK referenced above.I have been a
professor of anthropology for the last 29 years at the University of Hawand I have
seen many exciting discoveries on Hawaiwherespecial conditions have creatednatural
or cultural time capsules. None of thosediscoveries come close to the rarity and potential extent
of environmentalhistory contained inthe deposits in this newly discovered tube.
Tropical environments only preserve ancient pollen and DNA from flora and fauna in very
special conditions, mostly in constantly saturated bogs or sink-holes. The semi-arid Kona coast
is one of the least likely locations for finding excellent preservation of biota that are thousandsof
years old. Unlike open tube systems, this sealed lava tube has been protectedfrom fluctuating
relative humidity that destroys mosts organics from pollen to bird bones. The stable
environment hasprovidedunprecedented preservation conditions for the Kona Coast. Whilethe
early press releases have focused on the staggeringly well-preserved subfossils of extinct
endemic birds(which are truly remarkable in themselves),thepreserved biota in the sediments
on the cave floor may be even more spectcular.Theserare surviving relics shed light on an
ancient ecological system that we still know so very little about. Studying thesedeposits
requires a timeand maintaining the stratigraphic integrity of the abundant sedimentary deposits.
When a site such as this islost, there is little chanceto expect that a similar discovery willbe
forthcoming.
We hope that the county can work with the landowner in a fair and mutually productive way to
preserve this unique natural resource. The economic value of an agriculturally zoned 1.434-acre
parcelis miniscule in comparison with the cultural, historical, and scientific value of this lava
tube.Wecan either preserve this siteto better understand
are priviledged to live, or we can let such an incredible record of s natural ecosystem
sufferthe consequences of our desire for better profit margins from modern development.Our
legacy as stewards of the land is at stake here.
For educators and students, preserved cave systems provide opportunities for place-based
learning that connect geology, ecology, and cultural history. Maintaining their integrity allows
future generations to experience and learn from these environments in ways that cannot be
replicated once altered.
Because subterranean systems often lack obvious surface visibility, their significance can be
underestimated in parcel-based evaluations.I respectfully urge the Commission, particularly as it
considers amendments to its rules and prioritization processes, to ensure that caves and lava
tubes are clearly recognized as qualifying resources deserving proactive protection.
Comm 26-065
natural, historic, and community value for present and future generations. I respectfully request
that this testimony be included in the official record and that strong consideration begiven to
preservation measures that safeguard this site for the benefit of the broader community.
Respectfully,
Peter R. Mills, Ph.D.
Professor of Anthropology,
ilo