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The Land

Inspired by the people and the `aina (land) of Hawai'i, New Moon Foundation stewards over 2,000 acres in the North Kohala region of the Big Island. Extending from the Pacific Ocean to the Kohala Mountains, the land contains much of 'Iole Ahupua'a, a traditional Hawaiian land allocation that contained and allowed for a holistic watershed management system. The principles that guide New Moon Foundation are respectful of this sacred setting and revere the peaceful spirit of Aloha in the Hawaiian Islands, its people, the culture, and the verdant land.

New Moon Foundation recently underwent a thoughtful process to name its land holdings. Now known as "Sweet Water", the land encompasses the majority of the 'Iole Ahupua'a' including the Bond Estate and Former Kohala Girls' School, as well as areas outside the ahupua'a. NMF felt it right to honor the land with a name that paid homage to the water that runs beneath the lands and the gentle rains that come with the tradewinds to nourish all beings and vegetation. Sweet Water will also become synonomous with the future international campus for environmental and spiritual learning, scheduled to open in 2010.

Lands mauka (towards the mountain) of the Bond Historic District have traditionally been used for agricultural and cattle ranching activities, including taro l'oi, sugar, and macadamia nut cultivation. In light of this history, NMF is currently continuing the pre-existing ranching leases and approximately 250 acres of organic macadamia nut orchards. In addition, NMF stewards the lands that lead to the rocky ocean cliffs to our north, makai of the Historic District. Again, we will use these lands for the benefit of the local community, through agricultural pursuits, and environmental innovations.

Current activities at Sweet Water include establishment of forests for watershed and wildlife habitat; reintroduction of native and/or endangered species including taro gardens; and ponds for wetland habitats. Initiated with the assistance of the non-profit organization Na Huapala O`Hawai`i, a native plant restoration project continues under the direction of a plan developed by the Yale School of Forestry in collaboration with The Kohala Center of Waimea. A wetlands restoration project for native Koloa ducks has been established in collaboration with the Natural Conservation Resource Services. NMF is also experimenting with an innovative pig population control program, eliminating the need for traditional hunting practices.

Sweet Water lands are available for hiking, camping and other outdoor educational activities of youth, adult, and corporate groups.

Please visit our webpage: 'Facilities & Land Activities' to learn how to join us for our guided land activities or how to privately experience of the beauty of the land with your family. We look forward to seeing you!