End of the our work week at He'eia Fishpond

Aloha TEAM D and Visitors to our Site,

TEAM D had an awesome work week! We had the pleasure of working with Pae Pae 'O He'eia at He'eia Fishpond. Site managers, Keli'i, Kinohi, Kaika, and Benji helped us work through the week as well as helped to educate us about the biological and cultural aspects of the pond.

WEDNESDAY, 6/29 TEAM D learned about the invasive mangrove plant that fills the edges of the pond, as well as along the wall of the fishpond. The three main types of mangrove that we removed were the Rhizophoria mangle (Red Mangrove), Conocarpus erectus (Silver Mangrove), and Laguncularia racemosa (White/Oriental Mangrove). The team used laupers and a chain saw to remove the mangrove. Something TEAM D found refreshing, was unlike the strawberry guava trees we cut down last week, once the mangrove is cut, it will die.

THURSDAY, 6/30 TEAM D moved ko'a, or coral to the other end of the pond. We did this to help fill in the lower parts of the pond to prevent flooding. This will allow easier access to the wall for volunteers, workers, and keiki.

TEAM D is excited for our work day tomorrow, but is sad that it is our last day at He'eia Fishpond. We have learned so much, and met so many new people. We are excited for what is in store for our team next week!

Aloha,
Kiana (: