Challenges Ahead . . .
The different perspectives brought by KBAC members have helped the group to better understand the complexity and the dynamics of the consensus building process.  They reflected great challenges in implementing the Consent Decree (CD).

First of all, non-point source pollution problems cannot be addressed through a few short-term capital improvement projects.  It will require a better understanding of each sub-watershed ecosystem, cultural protocols  and the dynamics and resource constraints of residents, businesses, government agencies and other stakeholders.  It requires a long-term commitment from these stakeholders and a progressive approach.

KBAC members have witnessed the formation and dissolution of workgroups, councils and committees, and the investment of millions of dollars in several watersheds around the state. They feel that, to achieve the goals and objectives of the Consent Decree, KBAC needs to be strategic to bring a measurable success to its programs.  Achieving measurable success in addressing non-point source pollution problems has not been an easy task.  It requires great commitment and courage.

Finally, building partnerships with stakeholders, especially grass-root community groups, has been a complex process.  KBAC is diligently looking for ways to reach the stewards of each subwatershed, establish mutually acceptable partnership arrangements, and develop fair, effective and responsible mechanisms to disburse the money to achieve the goals and objectives of the Consent Decree.

Aloha to KBAC's Newest Member
On August 16, KBAC welcomed Dr. Kimberly Lowe, a Council member appointed by the plaintiffs.  Member Lowe has great insights on water allocation issues, on aquatic resources management, and on contract/program administration.  She is also sensitive to cultural issues.  Dr. Lowe has exhibited great competency and professionalism in serving with the Council.

As of Jan. 25, 2000, KBAC consists of six members. They are in the process of recruiting two members to fill the vacancies:
 

Relevant Affiliation	Appointed by Plaintiffs	Appointed by Defendants
Community Group	Jeffrey Harris	Christine Woolaway
Local Organization	Vacant	Toby Rushforth
Scientific Community	Mark Heckman	Vacant
Government Agency	Kimberly Lowe	Alex Ho

KBAC has set up reference binders and purchased books for Waimanalo, Kailua and Kaneohe State libraries to keep Koolaupoko communities informed of KBAC activities.  Through the work of its contractors they have developed a cross-reference bibliography on watershed management, a preliminary technical report, a series of student internship projects, and a comprehensive community volunteer network.  KBAC has been instrumental in helping Windward Community College expand its Global Position System (GPS) / Geographic Information System (GIS) capacity for research and community education programs.  "I am grateful to KBAC for making this (obtaining grant for GIS/GPS work) possible," said Dr. David Krupp, Professor of Biological Sciences at WCC.  KBAC has conducted community interviews and organized a series of facilitated community workshops that were well-attended in Koolaupoko.

Since May 1998, KBAC has funded 10 community mini-grant projects.  The mini-grant projects range from sponsoring the restocking of hihiwai in Waiahole Stream, stream cleanup activities at Heeia State Park, wetland cleanup activities at Kawai Nui Marsh, to a native plant nursery in Waimanalo.  Community groups have shared their wisdom and knowledge on issues relating to watershed management and water quality improvements.  KBAC has made a concerted effort to partner with community groups for educational, cultural and watershed planning efforts. Such an effort has been very important for KBAC members to better understand the challenges facing watershed restoration and addressing non-point pollution problems in Koolaupoko.

Mahalo to Former Members
Members Fred Madlener and Ed Laws both resigned this month, and the remaining KBAC members are grateful for their devotion as volunteers for over four years.

As the pioneer who took on a challenging endeavor for the betterment of Koolaupoko’s watershed, Mr. Madlener has contributed countless hours since long before KBAC’s establishment.  His passion for the cause and his selflessness has been instrumental in the birth and growth of KBAC.  He has offered the whole board great insights to the Consent Decree, to the Koolaupoko community and to the complexity and the dynamics of Hawaii’s environmental movement.  Such insights will guide KBAC through difficult times and help KBAC to achieve the goals and objectives of the Consent Decree.

Dr. Laws has been instrumental in advocating cutting-edge water quality research and community pilot projects, developing a practical approach for volunteer water quality monitoring programs, and in educating the Council about challenges inherent in addressing non-point source pollution problems in Koolaupoko.  His insights on environmental education, water quality science, Waimanalo Water Quality Program, and on the Waimanalo Community have been invaluable to the Council.