Hawaii salt makers working to save cultural practice

LIHUE, Hawaii (AP) — Families that harvest salt from salt beds in Kauai fear current conditions in Hanapepe and climate change are threatening their important cultural practice.

Ku'ulei Santos, vice president of the salt-makers' board, tells the Garden Island that the area around the salt beds has been developed without the consideration of the salt makers.

U'i Corr-Yorkman and her husband, Josh Yorkman, who also sit on the salt-makers' board say another challenge is people driving on the beach adjacent to the salt-making area, causing a runoff, which makes it more difficult for makers to find the necessary items to make the salt beds, such as black clay and salted water for the wells.