Embracing our Kuleana

Embracing our

Kuleana

One of the unique attributes of Laʻi Loa is the archaeological preservation area located alongside an ephemeral stream in an open space area. This preservation area is comprised of seven features consisting of a series of temporary habitations, petroglyphs and lithic quarries and registered under State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD). To educate those that will call Laʻi Loa home now, and for generations to come, the development team created helpful resources including the video below that explains our kuleana and malama for this special place.

Speaking to the uniqueness of the features is Tanya Lee-Greig, lead archaeologist with Āina Archaeology. “Most special is the petroglyph panels that are very specific to this area and unique to the Wailea community area.”

“To be invited to work on such a special and sacred place was very exciting for me and my ohana. To be able to remove the invasive species that was blocking this beautiful and precious site.” said Jimmy Medeiros of Kuleana Consulting. “Every tree was removed without affecting the site at all.”

The long term protection of this area is of the upmost importance for the consultants and development team “There are natural protections in here but we have additional protections as part of our long term preservation plan,” explains Tanya Lee-Greig. The La`i Loa owners’ association will be assisted in management of this area with oversight by individuals knowledgeable in historic site management.

“Our hope is that through personal connection and the sharing of history and stories about this unique area, that homeowners have a natural sense of kuleana and carry that responsibility forward in helping to educate others,” says Casey Lamb, Development Manager. “We’ve seen a lot of enthusiasm and interest by the homeowners to learn and participate which makes us very happy.”