Date of Award

Fall 11-25-2024

Document Type

Thesis (Undergraduate)

Department

Environmental Studies

First Advisor

Dr. Ross Jones

Abstract

This thesis analyzes Kauaʻi’s evolving resource management practices, examining the intersections of historical governance frameworks, modern legal systems, and indigenous knowledge. Utilizing the traditional ahupuaʻa system, Kauaʻi’s approach once promoted holistic stewardship across water, land, and energy resources. However, colonial policies, corporate influence, and economic pressures have gradually shifted this framework toward a market-driven model, often prioritizing tourism and development over ecological resilience. Key policy shifts as they fight to return to an ahupua'a based model – from the Great Mahele’s introduction of private land ownership to water diversions for plantation agriculture – help examine how these changes continue to shape resource access and environmental sustainability on the island today. Through qualitative fieldwork and interviews with Kauaʻi’s farmers, corporate workers, government officials, and community leaders, I aim to determine whether Kauaʻi is a model for resilient resource governance, offering valuable insights into integrating indigenous knowledge and adaptive management to build sustainable futures amidst ongoing environmental and socio-economic pressures.

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