Apr. 8, 2015
Contributed by Aron Dote
The North Shore of O‘ahu –known for its stunning sunsets and surf – is home to more than 26,000 acres of Kamehameha Schools land. To ensure the wise stewardship of that land, KS gathered community input to create its North Shore Master Plan in 2008.
The plan envisions implementing sustainable land management practices that honor traditional Hawaiian culture, values and knowledge to create a healthy community and abundance for future generations.
With help from community members and collaborators, Kamehameha Schools has made tremendous strides toward accomplishing the goals of its North Shore Plan. Following is an update of recent projects and an ʻŌiwi TV video that illustrates the revitalization taking place in the region.
NORTH SHORE PLAN PROJECT UPDATES
The restoration of Loko Ea Fish Pond
KS has partnered with the non-profit organization Mālama Loko Ea to restore the traditional fishpond and provide community and educational opportunities. Community workdays are held on the third Saturday of each month to engage the community in the restoration.
Agricultural waterway infrastructure improvements
More than $16 million in improvements have been made by KS on the area’s agricultural lands making it possible to increase food production for the local market. The new systems replaced the region’s aging plantation irrigation systems.
Development of alternative energy projects
In collaboration with renewable energy company SunEdison, formerly First Wind Energy, KS developed a 39-turbine windfarm which can generate enough electricity to power 14,500 homes annually. Other projects in the works include the development of solar power and hydroelectricity systems.
Community revitalization project
KS dedicated more than $13 million to redevelop the former home of Haleiwa’s iconic store Matsumoto Shave Ice into a retail complex called Hale‘iwa Store Lots. The new gathering place is home to 20 shops and restaurants and was designed to capture the area’s unique and historic charm.
Creation of the Sustainable Institute
This new North Shore land management model weaves energy, agriculture, economics, land stewardship and education together to create a sustainable future for the region. Educational opportunities will abound in places like Pua‘ena and Anahulu.
For more information on the KS’ North Shore Plan visit www.ksbe.edu/nsplan.
The region’s picturesque Pua‘ena Point and other locations will serve as outdoor classrooms as part of a new KS land management model.
KS has partnered with the non-profit organization Mālama Loko Ea to restore Loko Ea Fishpond.
The installation of irrigation pipes has boosted the productivity of farms on KS agricultural land.
KS’ Kawailoa Windfarm has the potential to power over 14,500 homes annually.
Hale‘iwa Store Lots is home to 20 businesses whose lease revenues support KS’ educational mission.
KS’ North Shore land encompasses six ahapua‘a that contains conservation, agricultural, rural and commercial lands.