The shores of Pearl Harbor were once lined with nearly two dozen rock-walled fishponds, some so old that they were believed to be built by the gods. The structures became a symbol of Native Hawaiian ingenuity and provided an environmentally sustainable supply of fish, shellfish, and other sea creatures. They were not only a source of food but also a place of spirituality and healing.
Yet, after centuries of degradation, most of these sacred sites have disappeared. One of the few that remains is Loko Iʻa Pāʻaiau, also known as the Royal Fishpond of Queen Kalanimanu‘ia, a site buried beneath invasive mangroves until a naval archaeologist uncovered it ten years ago.
Loko Iʻa Pāʻaiau was built during the reign of Mo‘i Wahine Kalanimanuia, a benevolent figure who ruled over the island of O‘ahu during the 1400s. After contact with the West, the royal fishpond fell into disrepair, suffering from colonialization, pollution, and development effects. The attack on Pearl Harbor cut off public access to the site. Unchecked, invasive mangroves spread throughout the area.
Today, the fishpond is a recognized historical site, a cultural destination, and a work in progress. Throngs of volunteers continue the back-breaking work of removing mangroves, pickleweed, and other invasive species, as well as reconstructing the ancient fishpond wall. Restoring the fishpond has become a way to practice Hawaiian values, such as ‘ohana (family), kuleana (responsibility), and aloha (love). According to Le, these kinds of values can protect against depression and loneliness, whereas self-serving values (such as hedonism, power, and achievement) can be particularly detrimental to youth mental health.
The findings, published recently in the journal Children, Youth and Environments, revealed gains in positive emotions and mental states, with happiness and focus being the most salient.
Read more at BWFund.com.
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