Posted on: Saturday, November 1, 2003
EDITORIALS
Sacred Falls should be reopened for limited use
From the craggy peaks of Mount Olomana to the valley depths of the Kalauao Trail, hiking on O'ahu comes with rewards and risks.
Few know that better than survivors of the 1999 landslide at Sacred Falls that killed eight people. The beauty of these Islands is by no means benign.
That said, we would like to see Sacred Falls opened for limited public use for the simple reason that it's a spectacular setting for Hawaiian mythology and ecology. And we're not out of step with the community on this matter.
Earlier this week, people met at the first of a series of public meetings in Hau'ula to discuss the future of Sacred Falls. Most said they want the park reopened, but with restrictions.
Natural reserve
One option is to turn Sacred Falls into a natural reserve, which would restrict public access without closing it off completely to hunters, gatherers and hikers.
Of course, visitors must be fully warned about the possibility of flash floods and landslides before entering the canyon. The state was found liable in the deadly 1999 landslide because a court concluded it had failed to adequately warn visitors about the danger.
That has led to a more active and direct system of warnings associated with popular, but potentially dangerous attractions. If any good came from the Sacred Falls tragedy, it is this.
And indeed, Sacred Falls can be a risky place, but it's also a great spot to learn about Hawaiian mythology, flora and fauna.
According to ancient Hawaiian mo'olelo, or history, the valley is the birthplace of Kamapua'a, a virile, pig-like demi-god who frequently clashed with Pele, the fiery volcano goddess. During the fighting, he leaned against the gorge to allow his family to climb up his body and escape.
Mythic lore
Some say the pool at the foot of the 87-foot falls known as Kali'u wa'a (canoe hold) leads to another world inhabited by a demon. Others say it probably was inhabited by a mo'o, or lizard-like water spirit.
At one time, there were dozens of shrines along the way to the waterfall. In the lingering wake of the 1999 landslide, that path is virtually untrodden.
We'd like to see life return to the area at a safe and reasonable pace and trust that various stakeholders, including the Pig Hunters Association, the Ko'olauloa Hawaiian Civic Club, the Hawaiian Trail and Mountain Club and the La'ie Community Association, will strive to find a responsible way of reopening Sacred Falls.
A model for others
If they come up with the right solution, it could serve as a model for other places in the Islands where beauty and danger mix.
There must be a solution. Hawai'i's worldwide reputation is built not only on the social and cultural climate here, but on our natural environment.
We must ensure that there will always be ways for people to enjoy it.
