every hand makes a difference. Also check out volunteer programs at Paepae o Heeia (PaepaeHeeia.org) and Malama Loko Ea Foundation (Lokoea.org). NEIGHBOR ISLAND KOKUA Beaches, coastal trails and upland hiking paths also beg for restoration on Maui, Kauai and Hawaii Island. Celebrate kokua while exploring some of Hawaii’s most scenic and rarely visited landscapes. Maui - Maui Cultural Lands (MauiCulturalLands.org): Help preserve rich cultural sites in pristine Honokowai Valley and Kipuka Olowalu. Aoao O Na Loko Ia O Maui (MauiFishpondAssociation.org): Revitalize Koieie Fishpond in Kihei’s Kalepolepo Park for educational, archaeological, cultural and recreational purposes. Kauai - Friends of Kamalani Playground and Lydgate Beach Park (Kamalanius.wordpress.com): Enjoy famiRESTORING ANCIENT HAWAII FISHPONDS Loko Ia (fishponds) were devised by early Hawaiians for trapping ocean or stream fish via sluice gates. Most common were rock wall-enclosed shallow ponds once numbering in the hundreds. Several are still in existence largely through vigorous volunteer efforts. On Oahu, the 400-yearold royal Loko Ia Paaiau (Paaiau.org) is a beautiful reminder of the peace, healing and harmony of Hawaii’s past. On the National Historic Register, this sacred site is currently stewarded and restored in conjunction with the U.S. Navy, Alii Pauahi Hawaiian Civic Club, Aiea Community Association, and descendants/residents of Paaiau, Aiea and Kalauao, and the larger community. While removing pickleweed and clearing pathways along the pond, know that 76 HAWAII PARENT May/June 2024 Workdays at Kako‘o ‘Oiwi involve restoring and protecting native species, growing taro, and caring for the cultural landscapes of the He‘eia Wetlands. “Volunteers are desperately needed for ongoing maintenance.” Photo Credit: Kako’o ‘Oiwi
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