The Pu'u Ola'i Wetland Management Association is proposing to restore and manage the saline pond and surrounding mudflat currently shrouded by kiawe trees, both dead and alive, and trashed by humans over the years. The move would welcome back endangered Hawaiian coots and Hawaiian stilts and other waterbirds that have been unable to fully use the wetland.

"It's one of the last decent wetlands on the whole coast," said Eric Guinther, an environmental consultant on the project.

The association, formed for the future homeowners of an adjacent planned subdivision, has received state Board of Land and Natural Resources approval to enter into a curatorship agreement with the state Parks Division. Under the agreement, the association will remove the dense growth of about 100 kiawe trees and thin out the kiawe along the coastal dune.

In addition, native vegetation will be planted along the edges of the pond to encourage the return of the waterbirds. A chainlink fence will be installed around the pond to keep predators and people from entering the area.

The project isn't totally altruistic on the part of the wealthy property owners. Property values will undoubtedly increase by creating "a more visibly pleasing setting" along the shore, according to a draft environmental assessment. Not only will views be enhanced but the homes will be separated from the public park, Guinther noted.

Martha Yent, interpretive programs supervisor with the Parks Division, said the public interest will be served because the project will create a viable wildlife refuge at the north end of Makena State Park. It also may become somewhat of a tourist attraction, she said. According to the plan, pathways and a viewing platform will be constructed for the public.

The association plans to pay for the restoration and management costs, estimated from $100,000 to $200,000, through grants matched with their own money. No state funding is anticipated, she said.

Yent oversees the state's Curator Program, a joint effort of the Historic Preservation Division and the state Parks Division to encourage community involvement in the care and management of historic and cultural sites on state-owned properties. So far there are nine curator organizations statewide, and the Makena proposal represents an expansion of the program into the natural resources of the state park system.