"Getting to Know" Waiāhole's Stream
Where is Waiāhole Stream? (opens in a new window)
On Saturday June 22nd, KBAC sponsored a Waiāhole Community Stream Walk. Over twenty participants met at the Waiāhole Poi Factory for a brief introduction by long-time community member Kaipo Faris. Kaipo discussed the community's efforts to restore the health and water quality of the stream by increasing the base flow and the reintroduction of hīhīwai.
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Increase in base flow has been identified as a solution to improve water quality in other parts of Ko‘olaupoko, such as in Waimānalo Stream. After the briefing, we proceeded to the trail head where we walked approximately 1.5 miles round trip and crossed the stream at least four times. In some cases the water level was up to our thighs. Good Fun!!!
At the halfway mark was an opening where the community has a a number of taro patches. People from all over work the fields on community work days and then are allowed to take up to 5lbs of taro out. Taro is a Polynesian introduced plant with a corm. It was used in ancient times as the main staple and for some families it still is. It was a pretty hike, not too long, and the best part was the ono lunch plates down at the bottom of the road at the Waiāhole Poi Factory for "the Kine" Hawaiian food. If you would like more information regarding the community project or workdays please address questions to Kaipo Faris at faris@kahala.net
If you think these walks sound interesting or look like fun, why not sign up for the next one?