Project Statement

This project revitalizes O'ahu's upland, agricultural, and coastal landscapes by weaving traditional Hawaiian water systems - especially the 'Auwai and loko i'a - into modern ecological design. Rooted in the ahupua'a ridge-to-sea framework, it integrates native reforestation, decentralized wastewater reuse, and multifunctional fishpond buffers to restore hydrological health, biodiversity, and cultural heritage. Through deep community participation, the design empowers local stewardship while delivering cleaner water, resilient ecosystems, and sustainable livelihoods. This model demonstrates how cultural wisdom and ecological restoration can be holistically integrated to sustain island environments.

Project Narrative

This project centers on the traditional Hawaiian water system, 'Auwai, grounded in the ahupua'a ridge-to-sea framework to revitalize O'ahu's upland, agricultural, and coastal landscapes. Addressing long-standing issues of water pollution, habitat degradation, and the erosion of cultural heritage, the project proposes an integrated, community-driven solution that weaves ecological restoration with cultural revitalization.

The design strategy unfolds across three interconnected zones. In the uplands, native forest ecosystems are restored using multi-layered plantings, including canopy trees (e.g., Acacia koa, Metrosideros polymorpha), understory species, and groundcovers to intercept rainfall, stabilize soil, reduce erosion, and enhance biodiversity. At the same time, the project revives the 'Auwai irrigation network, a historically vital water system that supported agriculture and daily life. Community members actively engage in clearing, repairing, and reactivating these channels, reinforcing ancestral practices and enabling long-term stewardship of water resources.

In agricultural zones, a decentralized wastewater treatment system (PPED) is implemented to recycle agricultural runoff and household wastewater. Treated water is reused for irrigation, creating a closed-loop system that reduces pollution, conserves resources, and supports resilient crop production, linking agriculture with environmental sustainability.

In the coastal zone, the project rehabilitates and enhances traditional loko i'a fishponds, transforming them into multifunctional ecological buffer systems. These stone-walled ponds, paired with native vegetative buffers, effectively filter sediments and nutrients before they reach the ocean, improving water quality and protecting sensitive marine ecosystems. The fishponds also support diversified aquaculture, boosting food security and community livelihoods, while serving as enduring cultural landmarks.

Sustainability is embedded in every aspect of the project. Ecologically, it restores natural hydrological cycles, rebuilds native habitats, and reduces human impact through nature-based solutions. In terms of resource management, the project closes the loop on wastewater reuse and sustainable agriculture. Culturally, it revives traditional water infrastructure, embedding indigenous knowledge into daily land stewardship and ensuring long-term resilience.

Diversity and inclusion are key pillars of the project's success. The entire process is community-led, with local residents deeply involved in co-design, restoration, and ongoing stewardship, ensuring true empowerment. By honoring the wisdom of kūpuna (elders) and fostering intergenerational knowledge transfer, the project strengthens community belonging, cultural pride, and long-term action. It places traditionally marginalized local voices at the center, recognizing them as vital agents in shaping resilient landscapes.

Ultimately, 'Auwai Revived: Integrated Ecological Strategies from Mountains to Sea envisions a thriving ahupua'a where traditional water systems, ecological health, and community well-being are seamlessly connected. The project not only restores the physical environment but also reaffirms the deep bonds between people, land, and culture, offering a model of sustainable and inclusive design for island environments worldwide.