The Issues:  Protecting Natural Resources & Cultural Sites

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As a planning consultant, I worked on the National Tropical Botanical Garden’s Lawa`i Kai Master Plan and Management Plan, which won an Environmental Award by the American Planning Association, Hawaii Chapter.  Community engagement is key to identifying needs and coming up with appropriate solutions.  As a member of the Kaua`i County Council, I supported funding for the Kaua`i Invasive Species Committee, which was successful in eliminating coqui frog in Koloa and using technology to combat invasive species in our forests and conservation lands.

We are blessed to live on the most beautiful island in the world.  We need to protect our natural resources and biodiversity for our children and future generations.   This means breaking down government-designed silos and looking holistically within ahupua`a to understand the larger dynamics, clearly identify problems, and work together to craft solutions.

1. Support KIUC’s goal of 50% renewable energy by 2023 to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels
2. Support funding for invasive species protection to protect our native forests and ecosystems
3. Strengthen management initiatives to address sea level rise in coastal areas
4. Protect our streams, aquifers, and coastal waters
5. Support community-based Makai watch programs, moku, and watershed councils

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What sets Kauai and Hawaii apart from any other tropical visitor destination is the Hawaiian culture.  I believe that we should:

1. Support community groups who are doing the hard work of restoring important cultural sites, fish ponds, and ahupua`a
2. Support Hawaiian practitioners who can tell the story of the Hawaiian people and culture
3. Educate both residents and visitors about the Hawaiian culture and history