Imi‘ike
The Pursuit of Knowledge
Our initiatives include the study of factors affecting our nearshore fishery.
Challenges to our fishery Include:
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Dramatic rise in population occurs after WW II (increases pressure on the fishery);
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Run-off from new construction escalates with rise in population, especially from the Enchanted Lake subdivision into Ka‘elepulu pond.
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Nearshore fishery management changes from assigned konohiki to game warden to state agency, This change to a “top down” style of management resulted in reduced accountability and increased inefficiency.
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The Kawainui canal connecting Kapa‘a landfill and quarry to the ocean is constructed.
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The Kailua flood control dike is built, redirecting fresh water from Kawainui Marsh to only feed Kawainui canal and reducing the fresh water sources feeding Ka‘elepulu stream. This alteration nearly eliminates communication between Ka‘elepulu stream and the ocean, which results in the loss of the brackish water hatchery for mullet, awa, āholehole and other silver fish on the Ka‘ōhao side of the bay.
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Sewage outfall into the Kailua Bay at Mōkapu is constructed.
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Evolution of spearguns, dive and other gear, increases the potential for unsustainable overharvest.
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Increase in visitors due to the internet, vacation rental proliferation, and kayak rentals changes the human impact significantly in Kailua.
