Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 2, Number 2, 1 February 1985 — Feasibility Study Proves Point [ARTICLE]

Feasibility Study Proves Point

There exists a potential for certain residents of Hana, , Maui, to practice a subsistence lifestyle. This conclusion was reached following a study resulting from House Resolution 304 introduced during the 1984 session by Rep. Peter Apo. Observations were made by Hana resident and Maui ' News correspondent William Haia Chang in a pubiished story recently. Apo's measure specifically calls for a study to determine the feasibility of setting aside state lands to permit certain residents to practice a subsistence lifestyle.

The study was conducted by Prof. Lueiano Minerbi of the University of Hawaii and members of a graduate practieum. Some of the concerns discussed with Minerbi and three of his graduate students reflected the diversity of the terrain and soil conditions in Hawaii and that the state lands should be looked at not only on the grounds of whether or not the land is unencumbered by lease or use agreements, according to Chang's report. Chang also reported that a request has been made for a total inventory of state lands in East Maui. "It should be made available to this community so that the longtime resident would be able to identify those parcels of land that would be suitable for subsistence type use, regardless of whether or not these lands are presently leased out to private concerns," Chang wrote.

Chang added that many times large parcels leased for grazing contain portions that are suitable for a traditional Hawaiian subsistence lifestyle. "These portions," he pointed out, "are usually in valleys where streams flow regularly, and remnants of the old taro terraces remain to verify the old use." Chang noted that among other concerns discussed by the group were: • Water supply (for domestic, as well as agricultural use — preferably an auwai system). • Energy supply. • Accessibility. • Need to participate in the marketplace and if the project would be setting up a subculture semi-independent of

present society. Chang had these concluding comments: "I know this whole study has been somewhat rushed, but it will be very interesting to see what kind of followup is done by the Legislature. It seems like the state may be taking on a more active role in carrying out its responsibilities as the trustee for the Hawaiian people. It appears to be a start in the right direction. "In looking over the plight of the Hawaiians today, especially when viewing the situation from a rural location, it appears that the main problem is the fact that most Hawaiians have lost their land base. On the land, most Hawaiians have no trouble taking care of themselves." Chang's report of the study appeared in the Dec . 1 1 issue of the Maui News.