Nonprofit Receives OHA Grant to Restore Fishponds

KHM News Release

Ka Honua Momona (KHM), a Molokai nonprofit focused on sustainability mauka a makai (from the mountains to the sea), has recently been awarded a $200,000 grant from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs to restore two Hawaiian fishponds, Ali`i and Kaloko`eli.

The greater goal of the project is to return momona (health and abundance) to the land and people of Molokai through the community-based restoration of two ancient Hawaiian fishponds.

Ali`i and Kaloko`eli, located just past Kaunakakai Town, are approximately 30 acres each and were originally built in the 15th century. KHM holds a license for both fishponds, as well as 1.5 acres adjacent to Ali`i Fishpond, from the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands.

Restoration goals of the project include: removing half an acre of mangrove, rebuilding 500 linear feet of the kuapa (rock wall), removing six tons of gorilla ogo, and maintaining 100 percent of previously cleared shoreline areas.

Social goals of the project include building leadership in the next generation through year-round internships, engaging community through monthly workdays, educating youth in environmental stewardship through hands-on programs, and strengthening community through partnerships and outreach.

For more information please contact KHM at 553-8353 or khmsteersman@gmail.com. To find out more about Ka Honua Momona, please visit kahonuamomona.com.