The Maui News
Local nonprofit Kua’aina Ulu ‘Auamo coordinated a “Year of the Limu” initiative to raise awareness about the importance of limu to Hawaii’s cultural identity and the health of the nearshore marine environment.
The initiative is part of a statewide effort created by the Limu Hui network, who, along with the support from Kua’aina Ulu ‘Auamo and the state Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of Aquatic Resources, advocated for a “Year of the Limu” state proclamation to acknowledge the critical role of seaweed.
“As an indicator of healthy ecosystems, a food source for many species, and a connector between Ma Uka, or the uplands, and Ma Kai, the ocean, limu has the potential to teach us so much about the health of the places we live,” said Malia Heimuli, Limu Hui coordinator, in a news release. “The goal of the Year of the Limu is to recapture, retain, share and preserve traditional ‘ike (knowledge) about limu for the benefit of the people of Hawaii and all those who love our island home.”
Signed by Ige on Jan. 28, the Year of the Limu proclamation acknowledges the work of limu experts, such as the late Henry Chang Wo Jr. of ‘Ewa Limu Project, and the “First Lady of Limu,” Maui-born Isabella Aiona Abbott, believed to be the first Native Hawaiian woman to earn a Ph.D. in science, according to the Smithsonian, as well as organizations such as KUA, the Limu Hui and others who have worked to preserve limu traditions and knowledge, according to the news release.
Limu Hui members also plan to propose another resolution this legislative session that calls for the designation of limu kala as the official state limu. An important habitat for marine creatures, limu kala is also used as a traditional medicine in the treatment of minor cuts and scratches and in cultural ceremonies including in the conflict resolution process of ho’oponopono.
KUA and the Limu Hui will be working with DAR and other community and organizational partners across the archipelago to plan and promote a variety of monthly community Limu Events throughout the year, including environmental stewardship workdays, invasive limu cleanups, limu plantings, educational shoreline walks, “show-and-tell” events and workshops on limu pressing and cooking, according to the news release.
For more updates or information about Year of the Limu activities, visit
Today's breaking news and more in your inbox
