This includes working with partners across the State of Hawai‘i to learn about a variety of traditions, practices, and customs, as well as local knowledge related to marine mammals held by a large number of individuals and communities. We have often worked with practitioners associated with specific ahupua‘a (land divisions) to help incorporate and perpetuate traditional practices and protocols.
The following video is about U‘ilani, a beloved female Hawaiian monk seal who touched the lives of both NOAA Fisheries staff and local community members. After U‘ilani died in November of 2015 from toxoplasmosis (a disease spread by cat feces), the community held a traditional Hawaiian ash scattering ceremony and the New Hope Canoe Club later dedicated a canoe to her. Here is her story.
