Moi and Poi at Heʻeia Fishpond

It was smaller than other farmer's markets around the island, but the most noteworthy. This morning marked the first harvest and sale of moi from the Heʻeia Fishpond.

Hundreds of years ago, fishponds (loko iʻa) were the predominant Hawaiian aquaculture, used to cultivate fish sufficient to feed the entire ahupuaʻa. Even back then fishponds were lightyears ahead of the contemporary fish "farms" that stock our supermarkets, outpacing them in both sustainability and in their care for the delicate balance of ecosystems. In modern times, most loko iʻa have been replaced by beachfront condos or have simply fallen into disrepair. There're only a handful remaining throughout Hawaii that produce harvests, and now Heʻeia has joined their ranks.

By the time we got there at 8:30 in the morning, the moi was already sold out. This first harvest was a small one, yet proof enough that strong consumer demand exists. In addition to moi, Paepae O Heʻeia partnered with other local farmers to provide poi and kalo paʻa. Delivery on those was running late, but we were still able to pick up a bag of ogo for salads before we left.

Today the hard work of countless volunteers began to reap the kind of benefits we all can appreciate: good food that's good for you. Hoʻomaikaʻi ʻana, Paepae Heʻeia.

Related posts:
→ Limu Salad
→ Invasive Limu at Heʻaia