Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The Navy Sets Sail
In 1994, the US Navy finally agreed to clean up and return Kahoʻolawe to Hawaii.
The navy promised to work until 100% of surface munitions and 30% of subsur-
face munitions were cleared. However, the catch was that the federally authorized
cleanup would end in 10 years, regardless of the results.
Ten years later, after spending over $400 million, the navy's cleanup ended, and
Kahoʻolawe was transferred to the state. The government estimated that only 70%
of surface ordnance and a mere 9% of subsurface ordnance had been removed.
The same year, in 2004, Hawaii established the Kahoʻolawe Island Reserve Com-
mission to manage access and use of the island, preserve its archaeological areas
and restore its habitats. As of 2004, nearly 3000 archaeological and historical
sites had been inventoried. KIRC's mandate calls for the island to be ʻmanaged in
trust until such time and circumstances as a sovereign Native Hawaiian entity is re-
cognized by the federal and state governments.' This mandate came one step
closer to fulfillment in 2011 when Governor Neil Abercrombie signed into law a bill
recognizing Native Hawaiians as the state's only indigenous people.
Helping the ʻOhana
KIRC runs volunteer trips to the island every other week for restoration work,
which includes pulling weeds, planting native foliage, cleaning up historic sights
and honoring the spirits of the land. It welcomes respectful volunteers who are
ready to work (not just sightsee). Visits last four days, from Tuesday through Fri-
day; volunteers pay a $125 fee, which covers food, lodging and transportation to
the island. The KIRC website lists full details and contact information. As of Janu-
ary 2013, there was more than a year-long wait list, possibly up to two years. Plan
ahead!
Getting There & Around
The Kipahulu section of Haleakalā National Park is on Hwy 31, 10 miles south of Hana.
The most famous route from Kahului to Hana, and the one that's fully paved, is the stun-
ning Road to Hana.
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