Posted on: Wednesday, October 23, 2002

EDITORIAL
Kualoa a good choice for Marine training

A close reading of news that the Marines are entertaining an offer to conduct jungle training at privately owned Kualoa Ranch on Windward O'ahu suggests the idea is a long way off.

But if it works out, this proposal could develop into a win-win solution for the Marines, for the owners of the ranch and for Windward residents who have deep concerns about renewed Marine training at nearby Waikane Valley.

The Marines used portions of Waikane for live-fire practice between 1944 and 1976. When a proposed cleanup of the valley prior to returning it to civilian hands proved too expensive, the Marines simply purchased the land and fenced it off.

Recently, they announced intentions to return to Waikane for more jungle training, this time without the use of live fire. But area residents remain wary.

John Morgan, owner and operator of Kualoa Ranch, has offered to rent parts of his facility for Marine training. It is already used for recreational activities including horseback riding, motor sports and even paintball combat games.

If a deal can be struck, it would put together a willing "seller" and a motivated "buyer" in the form of Marines who need active jungle training.

These talks should continue.