In addition to the spiritual and educational components, the third aspect of New Moon Foundation’s focus has remained the land. To this end, a relationship developed between NMF and Na Huapala `O Hawai’i, a local 501c3 nonprofit and the funding arm for Malama Kukui Cultural Learning Center. The Learning Center is comprised of living classrooms through which visitors, residents and students may experience the Hawaiian cultural tradition of these Islands. Within this cultural knowledge base are understandings about relationships with and responsibilities to the land.
In 2001, the two organizations partnered to establish a native plant nursery at NMF with support (2001-2004) from the Hawai`i Community Foundation/New Moon Fund, US Fish and Wildlife Service/Partners Program, Karuna-Stiftung Foundation, and Rotary Club of North Hawai’i. From 2003-2007, New Moon Foundation gave annual grants of $30,000 to Na Huapala O`Hawai`i to support the expansion of the native plants nursery, its management by Na Huapala staff, the outplanting of nursery stock including hapu’u (tree ferns) and native tree species, and the education of NMF staff. In 2007, the project goals of the Na Huapala O`Hawai`i grants were completed and New Moon Foundation assumed responsibility for the ongoing management of these projects.
NMF’s restoration efforts intend to benefit native plants, invertebrates, and birds. Current projects include establishment of forests for watershed and wildlife habitat; reintroduction of native and/or endangered species; ponds for wetland habitats; the reintroduction of the koloa (native duck); and improved nesting sites for the `Io (native hawk). In the future, coastal zone plants might be grown and outplanted on lower elevations of NMF’s land. Each of these projects are designed to incorporate opportunities for youth and adults to engage with the land through participating in experiential cultural and educational programs. It is our intention that an increasing number of young people will be able to learn both traditional and scientific perspectives of land stewardship at New Moon Foundation.
New Moon Foundation has accepted responsibility for a traditional hale pili structure, constructed originally on Kohala High School grounds, now disassembled and awaiting reconstruction in the historic district of NMF. A hui of community organizations including New Moon Foundation, Na Huapala O`Hawai`i, Na Kalai Wa`a (Makali`i), the Kohala Hawaiian Civic Club, and other community members will share responsibilities towards the hale pili.