It is a place that I feel the most connected to Hawai’i Island. Maunakea, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, & Waipi’o Valley. Those places to me are the hearts of the Island. I am a lifelong surfer & also a trail runner, This closure prohibits me from surfing the waves of Waipio Valley & from running the trail to Waimanu Valley.
Robin Fasciano
To me the Waipiʻo access road is an asset of our community. Those who came before us built it, and it is our responsibility to maintain it. The safety of the road and valley management are separate issues. Waipio is beautiful. We need to share.
Joel Gollaher
I am of Hawaiian ethnicity and raised in Waimea, and Waipi‘o has been one of many childhood playgrounds. Growing up in Hawaii Waipi‘o…It’s a local spot We would do all of the activities surfing, hiking, fishing etc. I believe ocean access should never be denied to local Hawaiian families anywhere in the state of Hawaii. The ocean is a key element to sustaining an islander’s lively hood. Whether it’s for play, work, food gathering etc. If authorities continue to restrict access to this life source we will forget who we are. And Hawaii will not be Hawaii anymore. If we need to help to rebuild roads, monitor fishing grounds, come together as a community to better restore overused areas, to make them sustainable resources…then let’s do it. Don’t just red tape it.
Kelsi Kauhane