Hawaiian culture at home in park

Maui News Editorial
Tuesday, July 23, 2002

Of the many virtues that distinguish Hawaii from the other 49 states, none is more important than the Native Hawaiians themselves and the heritage they represent. But they can't preserve and perpetuate that culture without some help.

Visitors don't come to Hawaii to learn more about the French, the Spanish or the Irish. They come to learn more about things Hawaiian, and there is a responsibility for all non-Hawaiians who call these islands home - and who far outnumber the Hawaiians - to do whatever they can to see that culture flourish. That's why what's happening in Kipahulu is so important.

Another virtue that distinguishes Hawaii from the Mainland is the presence of Haleakala National Park, a majestic Maui treasure that is like no other in the national park system. The cinder-cone-laden crater is spellbinding when viewed from the rim, and nature at its most personal when experienced as a hiker and camper. The Kipahulu section is like a different world all together with towering waterfalls, the pools at Oheo and lush forests of bamboo, other foliage, and now - with the resurrection of ancient fields - taro.

Hana farmer John Lind, his wife and farming partner, Tweetie, and fellow Hana resident Mike Minn have formed the nonprofit Kipahulu Ohana with the aim of bringing more Hawaiian culture to the Haleakala Park experience. In park Superintendent Don Reeser, they found a willing partner.

The result is the Kapahu Farm, which includes the restoration of 15 ancient taro fields on the Hana side of Oheo gulch as the park and the ohana entered into a cooperative agreement that will serve both to educate visitors and preserve history.

"If we work together, it only makes the park stronger," said John Lind.

Monthly public tours of the farm will begin Aug. 6 and continue on the first Tuesday of the month. Special tours can also be arranged. In addition to the taro patches, those taking the moderate hike will also get a tour of the surrounding forest to get a glimpse of the impact being wreaked by invasive species.

As with any farming, growing taro is hard work. But those who engage in it find rewards far beyond what only physical labor can yield. The ohana still has about half of the original fields to restore, and hopes to expand the farm with a variety of traditional crops, which figures to provide more opportunities for local residents. Anyone interested can find out more by calling 248-8974.

"If you take out the culture, the park is just another swimming pool," said Mike Minn.

Instead, the park has become more of a showcase for things Hawaiian. And that's just as it should be.