Trail talk

Ala Kahakai staff talk story with visitors.

Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail and three community groups shared the shade of one tent during the recent Malama Makalii Ocean Festival on February 2, 2013 at Kawaihae. After opening protocol, the day progressed with informational booths, canoe rides, entertainment and food.

Increasing awareness of malama kai concepts and responsible stewardship was the theme for the day. Talking, listening and sharing information with many of day’s 600+ visitors brought Ala Kahakai NHT and the Ala Kahakai Trail Association together with these three groups that they worked with in 2012.

Children learn about sea creatures at touch tank.

Each group brought their unique information to the tent. Hui Aloha Kiholo had cool braddah pops, told about pa`akai (salt) making at Ka Lae Mano and sought volunteers for Kiholo volunteer project days. Kailapa Community Association displayed information about their ongoing community projects. Keaholoa Stem scholars UHH monitored displays and the popular sea creature touch tank.

The gathering took place within the Ala Kahakai trial corridor and showed a melding of water/ocean activities with what takes place on land to make a healthy ocean and environment.