09-09-2007, 03:54 PM
Five hundred years ago most Ahupua'a were self sufficient. Food-energy-commerce-culture. This was without the advantages of modern technology; Wind, Solar, and Geothermal Power. Satelite dishes and computers. We have all this now, plus a year round growing season (don't forget the herb). If we're striving for a more "village" type economy and life style, perhaps isolation from Hilo would be a "good" thing. Think of lower Puna as it's own island within an Island. Remember that a Volvo makes an indestructable chicken coup. 