Na Pāhana (Projects)

Aloha ʻĀina days are set for 2025!  August 17th, Sunday morning is our next day. Contact the Association for where to meet. These days help to maintain the shoreline trails and spots for the entire community. All are welcome!  October 5th and December 14th weʻll be working as well!!

In 2024, MFA nominated 80 acres of land surrounding Kawainui stream for purchase through the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission process or PONC. Kawainui was ranked 2nd on the list of properties submitted! On April 3rd, 2025, the County Council unanimously approved the resolution to enter negotiations for the purchase of Kawainui using PONC funds. It is currently being appraised by the County. We hope Kawainui will be the first Hilo property purchased through PONC funds. 

New ahupuaʻa signs have been installed for Makahanaloa and Kulaʻimano! These signs recognize and uplift the inoa kūpuna (ancestral names) of our ʻāina. Seeing and saying these names helps breathe life into the stories, traditions, and knowledge rooted in our landscapes.

 We hope to get more signs installed in the near future! Ola nā inoa! E ola ka ʻāina!

Makahanaloa has begun to document the stories of old timers that grew up fishing and gathering along the shoreline. This work is possible through the Hawaiʻi Peopleʻs Fund with support from the Olohana Foundation. Click HERE to watch the first video. 

The Association has raised matching funds to pursue a rural agriculture development grant through the USDA. This grant would help Makahanaloa to secure equipment for maintenance of the shoreline and to reopen community spaces. 

The Makahanaloa Fishing Association has hosted a few student groups along the shoreline, including the United Nations Youth Assembly. These groups hear stories of the place, learn about the challenges the community is facing and help to Aloha ʻĀina!