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HRS §183B-1

What Hawaiian fishponds are and what counts

This section defines Hawaiian fishponds, which are traditional fish-farming systems made by native Hawaiians. It lists types like loko kuapa, loko umeiki, and loko pu`uone. It also says that fishponds not built for traditional purposes are not included.

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The statute, as written — Definitions

As used in this chapter: "Hawaiian fishponds" means the unique, traditional system and methodology of aquaculture practiced by the aboriginal people of Hawaii, and found nowhere else in the world. Generally referred to as "loko i`a", the system mastered by ancient Hawaiians includes but is not limited to loko kuapa, loko umeiki, and loko pu`uone. Loko i`a are natural or artificial enclosures; loko kuapa are enclosures built upon a reef, loko umeiki are a type of permanent fish-trap structure, and loko pu`uone are enclosed by sand. The term does not include any fishpond designed in a manner or constructed for purposes other than those associated with traditional loko i`a management and culture.
Read the official text at capitol.hawaii.gov ↗as published Jan 6, 2026our copy taken Aug 20, 2026

LawTrove is not legal advice. The summary above is a computer-generated restatement — the authoritative text is the official version linked above.