A recent study published in the Journal of Remote Sensing has illuminated the innovative use of uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) to assist in the restoration and resilience of traditional Native Hawaiian fishponds. This study, led by researchers from the University of Hawai‘i (UH) and local fishpond stewards in Hilo, Hawai‘i, provides invaluable insights into the effective utilization of drone technology for coastal zone management and the preservation of cultural heritage sites.
The lead author of the study, Kainalu Steward, who is also a doctoral student in the UH Mānoa School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), highlighted the importance of using drones as practical and cost-efficient tools for mapping loko iʻa at the community level. This technological advancement enables fishpond stewards to gain a better understanding of the potential impacts of flooding and future sea level rise on their fishponds.
Loko iʻa, the traditional Hawaiian fishponds located along the coastline, have historically played a crucial role in providing sustainable seafood sources and hold immense cultural significance. However, these sites face imminent threats from climate-induced challenges, particularly sea level rise, which necessitates the implementation of adaptive strategies to ensure their preservation and viability.
By simulating future sea level rise impacts based on King Tides events, the researchers predict that by 2060, the average sea level along the Keaukaha coastline in Hilo will resemble the extreme tidal events experienced during summer 2023. This compelling revelation has prompted further investigation into the potential consequences of rising sea levels on loko iʻa.
Throughout the study, researchers collected real-time drone imagery and monitored water levels during extreme high tide events to assess the accuracy of their predictions. The findings indicated that digital elevation models derived from drone surveys were more reliable in estimating observed flooding compared to the conventional LiDAR-based models, which tended to overestimate flooding in the region. These results highlight the efficacy of UAV technology as a valuable asset in coastal management and environmental conservation efforts.
The significance of this research extends beyond scientific investigations, as it aligns with NASA’s Minority University Research and Education Project (MUREP), aiming to increase the capacity of underrepresented populations, particularly Native Hawaiian students, in studying the impacts of sea level rise on cultural resource sites. This initiative also supports the educational endeavors of undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in science at the University of Hawaiʻi.
In addition to the scientific contributions, the project includes storytelling and community outreach efforts to raise awareness about the impacts of climate change on coastal resources in Hawaiʻi. Through engaging activities at the Mokupāpapa Discovery Center, the research team utilizes virtual reality and short films to promote dialogue and knowledge-sharing with the local community.
Looking ahead, the UH researchers are committed to collaborating with loko iʻa practitioners in Keaukaha to provide ongoing aerial imagery of their fishpond to support their restoration initiatives. By integrating modern technology with traditional practices, the goal is to enhance the resilience and perpetuation of loko iʻa, paying tribute to the adaptive wisdom of the kūpuna (ancestors) in the face of environmental changes.
This groundbreaking study not only showcases the potential of drone technology in environmental conservation but also serves as a testament to the impactful collaboration between scientific research and community-driven efforts in preserving the rich cultural heritage of Native Hawaiians.