Mauna Kea : moratorium on further development

Author:

Boyd, Manu

Title:

Mauna Kea : moratorium on further development

Periodical:

Ka Wai Ola o OHA

Year:

1999

Volume:

16

Pages:

5,11

Subject:

Mauna Kea Science Reserve Mauna Kea environmental aspects Astronomical observatories Mauna Kea controversy Telescopes Mauna Kea controversy

Summary:

This document describes a unanimously voted upon moratorium with regard to further development on Mauna Kea as mounting cultural and environmental concerns were expressed by the residents of the island of Hawaii. This came as a result of an audit that was done on the management of Mauna Kea and the Mauna Kea Science Reserve where a state auditor cited insufficiencies with regard to measures that were being taken to ensure the protection of Mauna Kea's natural resources. It was found that the University of Hawaii neglected to recognize the historic preservation and cultural value of an area that is sacred to the Hawaiian people due to powerful dieties, burial sites, and geophysical features that exist on the summit. In addition, Mauna Kea is also home to endemic and endangered flora, fauna, various lichens, mosses, ferns, and the wekiu bug, (Nysius wekiuicola), a life form that exists only above the 12,800 foot elevation level of Mauna Kea. As a result, a consulting firm from Honolulu was contracted to re-write the Mauna Kea development plan of 1983 that would take into account the recommendations of a legislative audit. However, during community hearings that were held on the island of Hawaii, an overwhelming opposition was voiced because the report allowed for the continued construction of research facilities.

Label:

Mauna Kea - Commentary

Date:

July 1, 1999

Collection:

Periodicals