Lend a hand to restore historic Loko Ea Fishpond

From building a rock wall to removing invasive grass — there are many age-appropriate activities families can do to be part of the continued restoration of Loko Ea Fishpond on the North Shore.

Malama Loko Ea Foundation’s monthly community work days, held every third Saturday of the month, welcomes keiki to kupuna to volunteer at the beloved 400-year-old Hawaiian fishpond.

“The goal of our community work days is to encourage communities, families and students to reconnect to the aina and to one another through stewardship, as well fulfilling our kuleana to our home Hawaii,” said Rae DeCoito, executive director of Malama Loko Ea Foundation.

Volunteers at the event learn about the history of the fishpond and progress of the restoration over the past nine years, and participate in work projects based on interest and level of effort.

Such projects include shoveling sand and pulling weeds. The day ends with lunch prepared by the foundation’s board members.

“Our ancestors had a deep connection to the aina and always made sure to take care of the limited resources we have on an island,” DeCoito said. “This understanding has never been more important than it is today.”