University of Hawai‘i researchers and kiaʻi loko (fishpond practitioners) are using drone technology to help protect and improve the resilience of Native Hawaiian fishponds in Hilo. With funding from NASA’s Minority University Research and Education Project (MUREP), the researchers’ drone surveys have provided insight into the impact and timing of potential flooding events and future sea level rise. The study used drone imagery and sensors embedded in the ponds to help restoration efforts currently under way and to anticipate future sea level rise which could match the King Tides—or extreme tidal events—by 2060.
“This research is important for enhancing coastal community adaptation, resilience, and food security in the face of climate change,” said Brianna Ninomoto, a UH Hilo graduate student and co-author of the study who was quoted by MauiNow.