Imagine a time long before Honolulu’s bustling streets. Picture lush taro fields where Waikiki now stands. That water came from here at Manoa Stream at Woodlawn Drive.
Manoa Stream begins its journey high in Manoa Valley. It flows from Manoa Falls through this vibrant neighborhood. The stream is more than just a waterway. It is a vital part of Manoa’s history and environment.
In ancient times, the Ala Wai Watersheds, which include Manoa Valley, were essential. The plentiful waters supported sophisticated Lo’i agricultural systems. These systems provided nourishment for the Hawaiian population. Taro was at the economic, political, and spiritual center of Hawaiian society. The taro plant and its history grew to mythological proportions.
The development of these areas led to the decline of this system. Foreign influence diminished the Hawaiians’ self-sufficiency. The creation of the Ala Wai Canal in the 1920s changed Waikiki forever. It enabled the destruction of native culture to build a tourist mecca. Waikiki was once a place of spouting waters and taro plantations. It was a place of fish ponds and seaweed. Waikiki nourished both the bodies and spirits of Native Hawaiians. It was considered sacred with several heiau or temples built there.
The Ala Wai Canal drained Waikiki’s waters. It was purportedly to combat disease carried by mosquitoes. But it was actually designed to drain the fish ponds and lo’i. This made the land uninhabitable to Native Hawaiians and other settlers. The Ala Wai Canal transformed Waikiki from a self-sustaining community to an urban resort.
Manoa Stream can be a source of trouble. High rainfall can cause the stream to overflow. A significant flood occurred on October 30, 2004. It caused millions of dollars in damages to homes and the University of Hawaii. Rainfall rates reached over 5 inches per hour.
Today, the Ala Wai Canal faces new challenges. A flood control project threatens to destroy over 600 trees. It will cause a wall to be built around the canal. This will forever ruin what is worth preserving.
Despite these challenges, Manoa Stream remains. It is a reminder of Manoa’s rich history. It is a symbol of the connection between the land and its people. The stream has a drainage area of 4.28 square miles. This site is located at an elevation of 130 feet.
As you stand here, think about the water’s journey. From the mountains to the sea, Manoa Stream connects the past and the present. It reminds us of the importance of preserving our natural and cultural heritage. Let us appreciate and protect Manoa Stream for future generations. It is an essential part of what makes Manoa so special.