Keawanui Updates from ‘Aina Momona

As we work to bring regenerative practices to the Kaʻamola ahupuaʻa, we try to be as innovative as possible and explore solutions to cross-cutting issues on the land and in the sea. Along the south shore of the island we have seen huge blooms of the invasive limu known as gorilla ogo. This seaweed suffocates the reef system below and kills off native limu in the area. Additionally, native fish species tend not to eat this limu. The overgrowth of ogo thus creates a difficult environment for native species to survive, pushing them out of their native habitats and forcing them to compete for nutrients.

In seeking a solution to the problem, our team harvested several pounds of ogo from the shore to use as a fertilizer for our plants on the land. Ideally, we will be able to put this invasive species to a practical use in our efforts to restore traditional food systems in Kaʻamola.

As climate change, development, and other issues continue to impact our land and waters, we sometimes must get creative in finding the right steps to take. Our ancestors had the ingenuity to use their surrounding natural environment as a resource- the land and everything on it was a teacher, a kumu. In following their footsteps, we make a strong effort to use what is available, create minimal waste, and find holistic solutions.

We are still exploring results, but it is our hope that the ogo will make a good fertilizer for our crops and agricultural work! Stay tuned to learn more!