Maui Nui Marine Resource Council Helps Provide Jobs to 70 on Maui and Moloka’i Through CARES Funds

Seven Maui and Moloka’i nonprofits working in partnership with Maui Nui Marine Resource Council and the County of Maui Mayor’s Office of Economic Development provided employment and workforce training for more than 70 unemployed or underemployed residents in November. 

The program was made possible through the Maui CARES program, funded by the Federal CARES Act. 

Maui Nui Marine Resource Council oversaw the administration of the Maui CARES funding for the projects and managed the rapid employment of more than 70 Maui and Molokaʻi residents.

The workers participated in conservation and restoration projects in Olowalu, Waiheʻe, Keʻanae, Kīpahulu, Hāna and Molokaʻi. All of the projects were rooted in Hawaiian cultural practices and values, and helped to protect nearshore coral reefs and important Hawaiian cultural sites, according to the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council.

On Molokaʻi, Ka Honua Momona worked to restore two ancient fishponds, which will help trap sediment before it reaches the open ocean. In East Maui, Kipahulu ‘Ohana improved a lo’i, or wetland taro farm. Organizers say the taro plants will slow the flow of stormwater, allowing time for sediment in the water to settle, rather than flow out to sea.

A Zoom presentation about the projects, including sneak previews of video recorded for a film about the unique collaboration, will be offered on Wednesday, Jan. 27 at 5:30 p.m. The presentation is free. Reservations are required. To make your reservation, please visit http://bit.ly/MauiCARES