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Native Hawaiians Oppose Makua Training

(Waianae, O'ahu) -- The Army is preparing to conduct training this week in Makua Valley , an area considered sacred by Native Hawaiians.

On Sunday, June 27, 2004, some students and others from the Native Hawaiian group, Malama Makua were allowed to explore the valley through cultural access.

But before they're allowed into the valley, the group gets a quick briefing from the Army reminding them they are on a live military range.

Before they entered, they ask for permission from the gods.

They looked at some petroglyphs and some showed offferings to the gods.

Along with petroglyphs and natural springs, Makua Valley is home to 45 federally listed plant and animal species.

However, a decades-long history of live-fire training and fires have left the endangered species barely clinging to survival.

The army last week released an environmental impact statement for a proposed stryker brigade.

Captain Kathleen Turner from the 25th Infantry Division said, "Areas we're looking at specifically are Schofield Barracks, Pohakuloa, and Kahuku training area."

The Army last year spent two million dollars on environmental clean-up here at Makua Valley.

Still, members of Malama Makua say that's not enough.

They would like the Army to take another look at the statement before they make a final decision.

The Army's convoy training is expected to end Wednesday, June 28, 2004.