| This dissertation analyzes the connection between kalo/taro farming and endangered waterbirds in the Hawaiian islands. Historical, ethnographic, and survey data are employed to analyze the economic viability, ecological dynamics, and cultural importance of kalo. A random sample of 58.5% of kalo farmers on Kauai provides qualitative data concerning farm and family history, natural resource use, and participation in conservation efforts. Weekly data collection of 31.7% of farmers provides 145 weeks of quantitative data tracking hours allocated to farming tasks, costs, net profit, plant health, environmental variables such as fish and shellfish abundance, climate, and waterbird populations. Results indicate that an average farm of 9 acres maintains an annual net profit of {dollar}45,339, requiring 4.64 hours per acre per week in labor, and providing habitat to 18 Ae'o/Hawaiian stilt, 2 'Alae ke'oke'o/Hawaiian coot, 6 'Alae 'ula/Hawaiian gallinule/mudhen, and 17 Koloa maoli/Hawaiian duck, all endangered waterbirds, in addition to many more threatened species. To analyze farmers' knowledge of their wetland environment, a survey is employed that elicited lists of up to 123 plant species, 73 animal species, in addition to 35 species of birds, and 79 varieties of kalo---all found on the farm. The dissertation also examines contemporary kalo farming in light of political ecological contexts. A study of regulations and rights to land and water suggests that government policies which affect resource access should consider the large role kalo farmers play in the daily management of a habitat that is widely known to be critical to the four endangered waterbirds listed above. A preliminary examination of cultural issues indicates the central role kalo plays not only as a subsistence food, but also as a cultural "staff of life," maintaining family and community health, social ties, and the traditional lifestyle of the mahi'ai/planter. The dissertation shows that kalo is vital to contemporary culture and life in Hawaii, including the many endangered and threatened species living within the farms. Kalo continues to promote a long-term relationship between farmers and their lands and waters that is a keystone for waterbird and Hawaiian cultural survival. |
