The Ahupua'a System of Resource Management
The kanak maoil (indigenous people of Hawai'i) developed the ahupua'a* system of resource management as a means to live sustainably in an island ecosystem. This system recognized the interconnection between the mountains and the ocean, and the role that fresh water played in linking the two. The ahupua'a contained all the neccesary resources to feed, clothe, and shelter the people living within it. It nourished a large and healthy population while maintaining the integrity of the island' natural resources. Some ahupua'a, like that of this artistic rendering of the Limahuli Valley in the ahupua'a of Ha'ena, Halele'a Kaua'i. remained intact up to the latter half of the 20th century. By looking to this system of resource management and the values associated with it, inspiration as well as practical methods can be found for living in balance with nature. Here at Limahuli Garden and Preserve of the National Tropical Botanical Garden we hope to be an example of a modern ahupua'a, illustrating how this concept can benefit contemporary Hawai'i by caring for the land and supporting the empowerment of its indigenous community.
* Pronounced ah-who-pooh-ah-ah
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At Limahuli Garden
The Ahupua'a System of Resource Management
The kanak maoil (indigenous people of Hawai'i) developed the ahupua'a* system of resource management as a means to live sustainably in an island ecosystem. This system recognized the interconnection between the mountains and the ocean, and the role that fresh water played in linking the two. The ahupua'a contained all the neccesary resources to feed, clothe, and shelter the people living within it. It nourished a large and healthy population while maintaining the integrity of the island' natural resources. Some ahupua'a, like that of this artistic rendering of the Limahuli Valley in the ahupua'a of Ha'ena, Halele'a Kaua'i. remained intact up to the latter half of the 20th century. By looking to this system of resource management and the values associated with it, inspiration as well as practical methods can be found for living in balance with nature. Here at Limahuli Garden and Preserve of the National Tropical Botanical Garden we hope to be an example of a modern ahupua'a, illustrating how this concept can benefit contemporary Hawai'i by caring for the land and supporting the empowerment of its indigenous community.
* Pronounced ah-who-pooh-ah-ah
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At Limahuli Garden