Wailua Māla Lāʻau outreach open house set for June 19

Published on June 06, 2024

WAILUA — Understory Alliance, with support from the County of Kauaʻi, and Get Fit Kauaʻi’s Built Environment Task Force, announces the Wailua Māla Lāʻau Outreach Open House will take place at the Wailua Homesteads Park on Wednesday, June 19, from 5 to 7 p.m.

“The community and the County’s partners hope to create a Māla Lāʻau in Wailua Homesteads Park to enhance community health and resilience,” said Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation Wally Rezentes Jr. “The open house will have information and displays about the Māla Lāʻau Project, opportunities for community input through an online and paper survey, and a hands-on activity.”

A Māla Lāʻau means forest garden in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi. It is among the oldest land management practices in the world. It mimics native Hawaiian forests by interplanting and layering native plants with noninvasive food and culturally appropriate plants. This approach creates a healthy and resilient community, recognizing people as an integral part of our natural ecosystems.

Community input is vital in shaping this project. The open house will welcome the community to share thoughts, feelings, and ideas. Their valuable manaʻo will play a crucial role in shaping the design of the Wailua Māla Lāʻau, ensuring it reflects and fulfills community needs and interests.

Participants are advised to bring a water bottle and a chair or blanket to sit on. Food will be provided.

For more information, please visit understoryalliance.org or contact aloha@understoryalliance.org.

If you need an auxiliary aid/service or other accommodation due to a disability, contact Wally at WRezentes@kauai.gov or 808-241-4457 as soon as possible. Requests made as early as possible will allow adequate time to fulfill your request. Upon request, this notice is available in alternate formats such as large print, Braille, or electronic copy.

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