Kāneʻohe Pali

The stunning beauty of Kāneʻohe Pali, nestled amidst the verdant Koʻolau Mountains of windward O‘ahu, is a testament to the resilience of its surrounding community. That’s why Trust for Public Land, in collaboration with the Kāneʻohe community and the State Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DLNR-DOFAW), undertook a vital endeavor to safeguard this 956-acre natural and cultural treasure.

With lush forests, freshwater streams, and a rich tapestry of native species, Kāneʻohe Pali serves as a critical habitat for 31 native plants and animals, including the Hawaiian hoary bat and three damselflies. But its significance runs even deeper than the important ecosystems it hosts. This landscape holds profound cultural significance, containing hundreds of cultural sites and landmarks, from the ancient Kekele Trail to sacred heiau (places of worship) and burial grounds.

At the heart of Kāneʻohe Pali lies the spirit of Kāne, the Hawaiian deity and physical manifestation of freshwater vital to the island’s water security. This sacred connection to water is evident in the abundant springs and streams that not only sustain diverse ecosystems but also comprise the watersheds feeding drinking water aquifers, producing millions of gallons of water daily. Even though this natural sanctuary plays a significant role in safeguarding the island’s climate resilience, the community has long been fighting to protect it against threats of development.

Finally, through collaborative efforts including land acquisition and community co-stewardship initiatives led by DLNR-DOFAW and Native Hawaiian nonprofits, Kāneʻohe Pali is now permanently safeguarded for future generations to enjoy. By protecting this precious landscape, we not only preserve its ecological integrity and cultural heritage but also ensure the resilience and well-being of the Kāneʻohe community and beyond.