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Ko'ie'ie Fishpond Receives $5,000 Grant from Monsanto Hawaii
(February 22, 2006) - The Ko'ie'ie fishpond restoration project in Kihei received a $5,000 grant from Monsanto Hawaii to help restore and preserve this ancient fishpond and its surrounding area for cultural, historic and educational purposes.
Under the stewardship of 'Ao'ao O Na Loko I'a O Maui, the nonprofit organization formed to conduct the restoration, Ko'ie'ie Loko I'a is considered to be one of the most structurally intact and best preserved fishponds in Hawaii. Covering a three-acre area at Kalepolepo Park, the fishpond was once reserved for use by Hawaiian ali'i or royalty, and served as an important economic resource for the people who lived in this area between approximately 1500 AD and 1880 AD. It is listed on the national and state registers of historic places.
"We approached Monsanto Hawaii for their support because they are very committed to caring for the land and caring for the water," said Kimokeo Kapahulehua, president of 'Ao'ao O Na Loko I'a O Maui. "They use reclaimed water on their farm, they green mulch their fields and they were very aware about the importance of preventing runoff into oceans and streams. I felt they would respect what we are striving to do."
"When we learned of this project, we were very impressed not only by its tremendous cultural and historic importance here, but by the dedication of the restoration group," said Bruce McBratney, technology lead for Monsanto Hawaii on Maui. "We're happy we were able to help this worthwhile effort to preserve and share a part of Hawaiian history and culture."
The Ko'ie'ie fishpond project is also being assisted with funds from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Hawaii Tourism Authority and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. In all, the restoration is anticipated to cost $500,000, and is expected to be completed this year.
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