Kanahā Pond

The large yet shallow pond wedged in between Kahului's harbor, airport, and commercial areas is the product of a mixture of natural and manmade forces. The area was originally a wetland, but was modified by indigenous Hawaiians in the 18th century. King Kapiʻiohookalani of Maui turned it into a Loko Pu’uone (inland fishpond), which could be used during the fish breeding season when fishing was kapu (forbidden).

These wetlands were altered even more drastically in the 20th century when part was filled in during the construction of Kahului Harbor. Development of the surrounding town and World War II modifications made to the pond have also threatened the local ecosystem. Thankfully, what is left has been protected and was named Hawaii's first wildlife sanctuary in 1951.

One of the last brackish-water habitats on Maui, Kanahā Pond is now a valuable urban location for over 100 native plant species and 86 kinds of birds. Some of them are endangered, such as the Hawaiian Duck, Hawaiian Coot, and Hawaiian Stilt.