3.3.1 The NWHI provide a model and rare benchmark
of a healthy, intact integrated ecosystem preserved in its natural
or near-natural state that may inspire Hawaiian residents as well
as others to take part in ocean restoration efforts in their communities.
This guiding premise led to “Navigating Change”, a multi-year,
interagency project which focuses on raising awareness and motivating
people to change their attitudes and behaviours to better care for
Hawaii’s land and ocean resources. A five-part video and educational
curriculum featuring the traditional Polynesian voyaging canoe Hōkūle`a during its 2004 expedition to the NWHI was completed in partnership
with several agencies and organizations. Teacher workshops on the
“Navigating Change” program have been held since 2003
across Hawaii and an outreach co-ordinator leads an associated curriculum
in schools state-wide. As people learn more about the NWHI, many will
want to go there and experience it. Therefore, the educational message
that is being sent to preserve the fragile balance of the NWHI is
that people must admire it from afar. Educational activities, therefore,
will focus on bringing the place to the people, not the people to
the place.