Ha'iku Valley, an amphitheater-shaped site of cultural and historical significance, faces an uncertain future.

The valley, nestled in the Ko'olau Range in Kane'ohe, holds a landscape worthy of protection, with taro lo'i, a heiau and native burial sites. It also contains several historical buildings, including the World War II-era Omega radar station, which has sat unused and was subsequently vandalized.

Preservationists want to turn the valley into a cultural and historical preserve. Two bills before the Legislature, HB 2704 and SB 2727, would make that happen.

The legislation would establish a governing entity through the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, tasked with keeping the land for educational and cultural purposes, and preserving the valley's resources in perpetuity.

But there are issues: The land in question has multiple owners, including the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands and Kamehameha Schools. Reaching agreement among all of them will take cooperation and leadership.

Access to the valley is also a concern. Entrance to the valley via Ha'iku Road will require cooperation from neighbors, who understandably might balk at increased traffic.

Resolving these issues will take some work. But preserving Hawai'i's cultural landscape is a goal worth pursuing.