To start off our first huaka'i for Field School this year, we went to Pālehua with Dr. Rowland to learn more about our home from a different perspective. Before we began our hike to Piliokahe, we analyzed different colored rocks to compare it to the color wheel. Throughout our hike we listen to Dr. Rowland speak about the dramatic impact that erosion has had on the Waianae Mountains. Some topics Dr. Rowland talked about were the geology of the Wai’anae mountains and the significance of this place to our ancestors and what they would use our mountains for. Along the way we stopped to acknowledge the few native plants that have resiliently continue to strive through the eucalyptus. While we were at Piliokahe, we used protractors to measure the slope of the lava flows of the mountains that surround our valley on a daily basis. Ensuring to show our gratitude to our `aina we chanted to the various peaks that make up the Nanakuli valley. As the night continued we were visited by Ms. Tammy Jones we spoke to us about our philosophy. Educating us students on a 21st century tool kit, in which helps us answer questions using other questions. As the night came to an end, we gather by the fire to share skits. The next day, they gathered to work on erosion control gardens. Planting native plants to bring back the micro-organisms and prevent further erosion. |