Miloli‘i: An ‘ocean classroom’ for the next generation
Posted on Aug 25, 2022 in Capitol Connection, Featured, Main“To be more pono for future generations.” That vision is what drove a dedicated group of community members to work with the state’s Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) and other organizations to develop administrative rules to protect ocean resources along 18 miles of coastal waters on Hawai‘i island. “Community involvement has been critical to bringing us here today,” said Governor Ige. “By blending traditional and modern knowledge through a community-led effort, we have set an amazing example of how we can work together to ensure our public trust resources are protected and preserved. Miloli‘i will be an ocean classroom to teach the next generation about traditional fishing practices and the value of conservation.”
Miloli‘i community members celebrate the governor’s signing of rules to protect its ocean resources.
DLNR director Suzanne Case continued, “Here and across the state we face immense challenges due to climate change, overfishing and other ecosystem stressors. We are grateful for such dedicated partners, rooted in tradition, to co-manage our nearshore resources. Community-based rules, in cooperation with government, are the way we can combine our past, present and future in a collaborative way. It’s a very powerful tool.” Laila Kaupu, a fifth-generation fisher who headed up the group, Kalanihale, said she saw the process as an opportunity “to get the community heard in ways they’ve never been heard before.” She accompanied the governor and Mrs. Ige on a boat tour so they could snorkel and see the beauty of the coral and marine life for themselves.