Our Need for a Sustainable Balance
| 1 Falling rain waters plants, feeds surface and underground streams, and creates waterfalls on its way to the sea.2 Farms and ranches alter land and water resources, causing erosion and unwanted runoff from fields and feedlots.3 Water from our streams is now diverted for golf course and other use, where it picks up chemicals and litter, and deprives other areas of needed moisture. 4 Cultural and historic treasures such as heiau and natural wetlands are important to our sense of place, but they vie for space against the needs of a growing population and economic demands. |
5 Kahana, at the south end of the moku of Ko`olauloa, remains undeveloped. From the tops of the mountains, rain follows clean streams as they flow through restored lo`i fields and an ancient fishpond. The community uses the ancient principles of the ahupua‘a to preserve this treasure.6 The windward side has wonderful parks and recreation areas perfect for family outings, but as more recreation areas are opened, more human disturbances may throw the natural cycle out of balance.7 Winds, currents and waves move marine debris on and off the beaches. Marine and reef life are threatened as people and alien elements interact in the environment. | 8 The ocean and beaches develop a filmy surface from suntan and boat oil, and assorted “civilized” debris threatens marine life.9 Tremendous demand for coastal regions by industry, residents, and recreation places a strain on the ocean and the delicate ecosystems.10 A growing population invades more open land. More people need more water. Streams pick up cigarette butts, soda cans, plastic wrappers, and gas, oil and pesticide residue.11 Streets and buildings divert water into unnatural paths. Some paths trickle underground, some dry up, some deposit debris and litter on their way to the ocean. |