A Kalo/Coral Reef Restoration Project at He'eia

We completed our journey in the ahupua'a of He'eia by spending the rest of the afternoon at Koa's project: Mahuahua 'Ai O Hoi run by the non-profit called Kako'o 'Oiwi. We've heard about this project since day one of our program but for most of us, this was the first time we stepped foot into this large community-based project with support from The Nature Conservancy.

After Koa explained the vision, goals, objectives, and strategies of this long-term project, we got right into the thick of it by helping to re-open a kalo (taro) lo'i (patch) using hand tools. The project is not allowed to bring in heavy machinery to do the work at this time. It sure would make a big difference!

Joan found a nearly two foot long worm in the mud!

Someday this land could feed the communities, raise more farmers, and keep the streams that enter the ocean running clear again.