Hawaii Pacific University’s Oceanic Institute received a $187,699 grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to restore limu (seaweed) populations, according to a news release.

This coincides with Hawaii Gov. David Ige’s declaration that 2022 would be the “Year of the Limu,” recognizing the integral role that limu plays in Native Hawaiian traditions.

“This project will fulfill NOAA priorities to support local aqua farmers and recreational fishing communities, including local limu ‘pickers,’ and has the potential to protect near-shore fisheries by promoting ecological services provided by cultured limu,” principal investigator of the grant and Executive Director of OI Shaun Moss, Ph.D, said in the news release.

The grant will benefit recreational fishing communities, aqua farmers and community organizations involved with limu restoration. 

In Hawaii, over 500 native limu species exist, evolving in small habitats along the coasts.

Along with poi and fish, limu is a staple of the traditional Hawaiian diet. It is also used for medicinal, religious and cultural purposes.

Michelle Broder Van Dyke covers the Hawaiian Islands for Spectrum News Hawaii.