Site Visit and Service Project at Kīholo Fishponds in Kona
Friday, June 22nd from 9am to 2pm.
A site visit and service project at Kīholo Fishponds in Kona. Join VAC and experts from the Nature Conservancy at Kīholo Bay. The historic Fishpond estuary with abundant marine life, and two large interconnected freshwater spring-fed pools contain numerous native fish species, hapawai (mollusk) and ʻopae (shrimp). A 200-foot-long ‘auwai, or stone channel, connects the ponds to Kīholo Bay, which has a resident population of green sea turtles that use the inland ponds to feed and rest. Threatened migratory seabirds also frequent the area. Kīholo is part of a larger coastal area that was once coveted by Hawaiian chiefs for its productive nearshore reefs and offshore fisheries, its fishponds and anchialine pools. For native Hawaiians, Kīholo is a culturally important site, especially for those who continue to live in the vicinity and trace their ancestry back to the land. The day includes a brief interpretation of the history of the ponds followed by a service work project. Service includes removing invasive plant materials to clearing debris. Be prepared for hot, dry conditions. Bring water, reef friendly sunscreen, closed toed shoes (water-shoes if possible) and a bag lunch. Transportation is not included however carpooling may be arranged. Registration is required by calling the Volcano Art Center at (808) 967-8222.