When Hawaiians settled in Hawaii they had to live off the land alone, farming, fishing, gathering, and hunting to survive. Fishponds and hunting provided a sustainable source of protein, while loʻi and farms provided staple foods like, kalo, ʻuala, and other plants. The Hawaiians were extremely sustainable when it came to farming, being able to feed a population of around 1 million people, while preserving the resources for generations to come.
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Our Mālama Honua class was separated into groups and assigned growing systems. Some groups were assigned aquaponic systems which are growing systems that incorporate marine life, helping to fertilize the plants with the animals waste. Our groups were assigned hydroponic systems which require chemicals to provide nutrients to the plants. Our hydroponic system lives inside of the classroom receiving artificial light from "grow lights" set on a 12 hour timer. There is also a water pump in the bottom of the container that will pump water to the plants and drain itself after according to the timer.
We are growing a variety of plants in our growing systems including, papaya, tomatoes, and lettuce as shown in the picture above,
Going on this learning trip to CTAHR in Waimanalo, I learned about the side of food that we donʻt see. I learned about things like what it takes to be able to label your food "organic" or "non-GMO." I think that the best part of this field trip was getting to walk around the area, and see all the different native and non-native plants growing. I also enjoyed learning about the background of the area, and helping out the Professor with weed pulling and what not.