The futures of many of Hawai‘i’s residents, on-island and across the State, are intertwined with the future of Maunakea. It is essential their voices are included in the community’s effort to create a lasting vision for the mountain. With this need in mind, EnVision Maunakea was designed as a community-based initiative to gather a wide range of perspectives on the mountain’s future and put these valuable insights in the hands of decision-makers. This process was intended to inform policy and regulatory actions that will deeply impact the entire mountain.
EnVision Maunakea sought to nurture civil conversations in our community regarding the future of the mountain that is, in many ways, central to Hawai‘i. The process provided safe, respectful spaces for productive discussions—facilitating an understanding of the path that brought us to this moment, how the past informs the future we strive to create for forthcoming generations, and what kind of future we envision for Maunakea 100 years from now.
EnVision Maunakea collected community input through 15 ʻAha Kūkā (listening sessions), designed to invite and encourage Hawaiʻi Island residents from as many differing perspectives as possible. Sessions were held in Hilo, Kona, Waimea and North Kohala. In addition input submitted in writing and via the website was also incorporated. The intent was to engage in open, respectful and inclusive conversations about our community’s relationship with the mauna, how different uses could coexist and how these may unfold over the next 100 years. The report is now available here. Use this form to share your feedback about the report: /manao/
The process has been supported by a Hui Ho‘olohe – a volunteer advisory group of Hawai‘i Island community members from diverse perspectives and backgrounds. Hui Ho‘olohe members shared the belief that innovative solutions can be created through open, constructive conversation and purposeful collaboration. Friends of the Future, an independent 501c3 nonprofit based in Waimea has provided organizational support for the process.
