Keanae: Life in the Loi

The Keanae region of East Maui is known for its white poi and the many taro patches that were once reserved for alii. By the 1900s Chinese immigrants had moved into the area and had utilized nearly half of the valley floor for growing rice patties. Today there’s a resurgence in interest in the taro farming and bringing life back to the loi–a challenge financially, but one is doable with diversity as families work to keep the tradition alive.

[flashvideo file=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2sF5cThyik /] (Posted: 8/19/08 © Wendy Osher, MauiNOW.com, Pacific Radio Group)