HI HCR162

Requests the Waipio Valley Stakeholders Alliance to coordinate with the Bishop Museum, Kamehameha Schools, Friends of the Future, County of Hawaii, Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Trust For Public Land, State of Hawaii, and other interested parties regarding preservation and stewardship of Waipio Valley.

Directs the Waipio Valley Stakeholders Alliance to submit a report with findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the 2017 Regular Session convening.

Recognizes Waipio Valley as a sacred place with significant cultural, historical, genealogical, and agricultural importance to Native Hawaiian communities, including heiau, taro lo'i systems, fishponds, and burial sites.

Acknowledges the Bishop Museum's ownership of approximately 537 acres (60% of the valley floor) and its announced intent to sell the property, creating uncertainty for taro farming families who have leased and maintained the lands for generations.

Identifies previous concerns including health and safety issues from lack of public facilities, demographic changes impacting natural and cultural resources, and environmental concerns related to stream management and flood control.