Learning From the Land

Maui’s landscapes are more than just scenic beauty—they are living archives of Hawaiian history and culture. Understanding the layers of history beneath the surface is essential to protecting the wahi pana (sacred places) and other sites of cultural significance. Our training sessions took the Aina Momona staff to different key locations around the island where they learned how archaeologists work to uncover and document these histories, while balancing the needs of modern development.

The staff members participated in interactive demonstrations of site surveys, mapping techniques, and excavation processes. Ledcor’s cultural resources team, in collaboration with local kupuna and experts, emphasized the importance of conducting archaeology in a culturally respectful manner that honors both the ancestors and the current stewards of the land.