Archaeological and Historical Literature Search and Research Design, Lava Flow Control Study, Hilo, Hawaii

The Department of Anthropology, Bernice P. Bishop Museum, conducted an archaeological and historical literature search to define and evaluate potential cultural resources that would be affected by lava diversion alternatives now under consideration in the contracting agencys Lava Flow Control Study. The data presented in the following report will be used to assess the impact of emergency diversion schemes devised to protect the Hilo area Island of Hawaii from lava flows and to meet requirements set by the National Historic Preservation Act and the Reservoir Salvage Act. The study area, or that area which could be affected by either the actual construction of the diversion structures or the diverted lavas, is delineated by the Wailuku River on the north, by the Hilo-Puna coastline on the east, by a line from Cape Kumukahi to a point at 9,500 ft elevation on the south, and by a line from this point roughly to Puu 00 Ranch on the west.