Land trust agrees to Maui deal

Advertiser StaffÊ

WAILUKU, Maui — The Maui Coastal Land Trust yesterday announced the signing of a $4.8 million sale agreement to acquire 277 acres of Waihe'e shoreline on Maui's northwestern shore as a natural and cultural preserve.

Japanese developer Waihe'e Oceanfront Hawai'i had planned to develop the area as a golf course and resort, but the project fell victim to the economic downturn in Japan.

The property includes coastal dunes, native wetlands, an ancient Hawaiian village site and 1.5 miles of shoreline.

With county and U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife grants and other financing, $4 million was raised for the purchase, and the land trust is conducting a community capital campaign for the remaining $800,000. The group also is seeking money for a $1.2 million endowment fund to ensure ongoing protection and management of the site.

A $107,080 Fish and Wildlife grant is supporting preliminary restoration efforts and paying for part-time project manager Scott Fisher's salary.

Donations may be made by mail to Maui Coastal Land Trust, P.O. Box 965, Wailuku, HI 96753, or by calling (808) 244-5263.