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