The Issues:  Protecting Natural Resources

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

1. Protect and manage our streams, aquifers, and coastal waters
2. Support funding for invasive species removal to protect our native forests and wildlife
3. Strengthen management initiatives to address sea level rise in coastal areas
4. Strengthening the Aha Hele program and expand hiking and biking trails
   
5. Support community-based Makai watch programs, moku, and watershed councils

​​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.

* Affordable Housing

* Agriculture & Locally Grown Food

* Economy

* Education

* Protecting Natural Resources & Cultural Sites

* Renewable Energy

* Traffic Congestion

* Good Government