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CRAMP Study Sites: Ahupū Ili, Island of Kaho‘olawe

Hakioawa Ili -- Kanapou Ili -- Kūnaka-Na‘alapa Ili -- Kealaikahiki Ili -- Honoko‘a Ili -- Ahupū Ili -- Kūheia & Kaulana Ili -- Papaka Ili

Geographic Name: Ahupū Ili

Geographic Location - shoreline:

Northwest coast of Kaho‘olawe from ridge crest between Kaukamoku and Ahupū southwest to Maka‘alae.

Chart showing coastline of Ahupū Ili. (Click image for larger view.)

1993 NOAA aerial photo of Ahupū Ili coastline. Photo provided by Steve Rohmann. (Click image for larger view.)

Physiography:

This area consists of deep valleys. The shoreline includes Ahupū Bay, Ahupūiki Bay, Oawapalua. Sand-mud beaches occur in the bays. This area has been impacted by extreme mud deposition.

Reef Structure, Habitat Classification:

Ahupū Bay is easily accessible as compared to other coastline sites along the north shore. This sheltered bay has a large sandy beach. http://bishop.Hawai‘i.org/research/cultstud/kaho/ahupu

Oceanographic and Meteorological Conditions:

Ahupū has less turbulence relative to other areas on Kaho‘olawe. This creates an environment where fine particles of sediment will settle and collect.

Adjacent Land Use and Influence:

The upslope area was part of a major target zone until Oct. 1990, leading to major erosion of the area with extensive silt deposition in the gullies.

Human Use Patterns:

Archeological remains show Ahupū was once settled by Hawaiians. Presently the area is closed and undergoing ordnance clearance and restoration. Ahupū is an excellent landing area for boats, so this region could become the focus of some cultural/educational activities in the future.

Historical and Cultural Importance:

One of the significant sites in this ili is an adze quarry located on Pu‘u Moiwi. The abundance of ancient petroglyphs in surrounding rocks at Ahupū make this site a valuable cultural resource.

Last Update: 04/21/2008

By: Lea Hollingsworth

Hawai‘i  Coral Reef Assessment & Monitoring Program

Hawai‘i  Institute of Marine Biology

P.O. Box 1346

Kāne‘ohe, HI 96744

808-236-7440 phone

808-236-7443 fax

email: jokiel@hawaii.edu