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Introduction Hawaii is a land of rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. One of the most intriguing aspects of this heritage is the concept of Ahupuaʻa, a traditional Hawaiian land division system. The Ahupuaʻa system underscores the interconnectedness of different ecosystems, emphasizing how protecting one part of the environment, such as cloud forests, can…

Mother’s Day has been celebrated long before Judaism, Christianity, and Islam in one form or another. Art in early cultures of Asia, Europe and the Middle East recognized that women were the source of life and fertility. Somewhere along the path of history, patriarchies became en vogue and here we are today trying to recognize…

Introduction to Ahupuaʻa The concept of Ahupuaʻa is fundamental to understanding the people of Hawaii’s traditional approach to land management and resource distribution. An Ahupuaʻa is a distinct land division system used by Native Hawaiians, reflecting a deep connection to the natural environment. Each Ahupuaʻa typically extended from the mountains (mauka) to the sea (makai),…

World Oceans Month, celebrated every June, is a time to honor, appreciate, and raise awareness about the vital role oceans play in our lives. Oceans cover more than 70% of our planet’s surface and are crucial for sustaining life on Earth. This month serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and protecting these…

What does hurricane season mean for us in Hawaii? The old adage, June is too soon, July-standby, August-a must, September — remember, October all over is no longer accurate. The hurricane season starts today, but has been extended through the month of November due to increased storm activity from global warming. This year forecasters are…

Huehue Ranch stands as a testament to Hawaii’s dynamic history, blending the legacies of ancient kings and modern environmental stewardship. Situated on the Big Island, Huehue ranch has evolved significantly since the 1800s, embodying the transformation of the people of Hawaii’s economy and landscape. King Kamehameha King Kamehameha the Great, renowned for unifying the Hawaiian…

Hawaii is known for our lush tropical gardens but much of our land especially on the leeward side is desert. There are many delectable fruits that actually do best where conditions are hot and dry. Figs, pomegranates, papaya and dates are just a few that come to mind, but mangoes are by far the most…

In a world increasingly dominated by urban noise and digital distractions, finding moments of tranquility can be a challenge. However, recent research has highlighted a simple yet profound remedy: listening to birdsong. Studies suggest that dedicating just 15 minutes a day to this natural soundscape can significantly calm the nervous system, providing both psychological and…

We tend to freak out when a new invasive plant species arrives in our islands, but most spread relatively slowly. Usually we have some time to either deal with them or learn to live with them. Being plants, they are at least sequestering carbon and supplying oxygen. Some like the Fountain Grass covering the raw…

Introduction Join us as we delve into the essence of Mālama ʻĀina and its profound connection to nurturing our mental health, especially as we celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month. Mālama ʻĀina is a Hawaiian phrase that encapsulates the deep-rooted principle of caring for and respecting the land. As we explore the intricate bond between nature…

You still have time to shop today at the Old Kona Airport Kona Orchid Society Spring Show and Sale. It starts at 9 a.m. and runs to 2 p.m. Not only will there be orchids, but a great variety plants that may be used to beautify the home. If you have already found that special…

Hawaii, with its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, holds a profound concept at the core of its identity – Mālama ʻĀina. This ancient Hawaiian principle, often translated as “to care for the land,” embodies a deep-rooted respect for the environment and a harmonious relationship between humans and nature. Join us as we explore…