Formation
Molokini is one of only three sheltered submerged calderas on Earth, an ancient extinct volcanic crater. Just as molten lava flowing through the tectonic plates gave rise to all Hawai’i islands, Molokini is the result of volcanic eruption. It is unique because submarine eruptions create volcanic glass, which alters to brownish-yellow clay, giving Molokini its unique color and texture.
Though scientists previously thought the cinder cone formed about 50,000 years ago, potassium-argon dating has proven that Molokini is much more prehistoric. In 2001, the USGS reported that Japanese graduate student Yoshitomo Nishimitsu of Kyoto University, working in conjunction with the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, had proved conclusively that this unique geological feature has existed for about 230,000 years. It is even older than the Haleakala crater, which is situated atop the towering 10,000-foot mountain that comprises the majority of the island of Maui.
Creation and Legend
Of course, Hawai’i is full of legend and lore, so cultural references to the creation of Molokini are attributed to the Goddess Pele, the personification of magma and creation. One myth describes a love triangle in which Pele, smoldering with jealousy, cuts her rival in half to eliminate competition. Molokini is said to be the slain woman’s body, and the cinder cone Pu’u Ola’i is supposedly her head. (http://hvo.wr.usgs.gov/volcanowatch/archive/2001/01_02_08.html)
No one has contrived anything so imaginative about the modern history of this renowned place, even with a romanticized creation. Archaeologists have recovered stone sinkers and fishing lures that are evidence of early Hawai’ian fishermen frequenting Molokini to catch fish. They also likely collected seabirds, eggs, and feathers. Molokini has provided subsistence to animals and people for many generations.
The Toll of War
Fortunately, relics were collected since Molokini was subjected to a barrage of ammunition during target practice conducted by the US Navy during World War II. Before WW2, there was more of Molokini to enjoy. But war spares no one, and Molokini became a casualty, as did the neighboring island of Kaho’olawe. Between the artillery bombardment, natural ocean erosion, and rising sea levels, only the crescent atoll remains.
Subsequent damages occurred in 1975 and 1984 when the Navy detonated some remaining unexploded munitions without regard for the health of the fragile reef and ecosystem. Such short-sighted actions resulted in public protest, so volunteer divers risked their lives to protect Molokini by removing the rest of the bombs. Finally, in 2006, the area was found to be completely free of munitions.
Just as some divers were protecting the ecosystem, others were stealing it. From the 1950s until the 1970s, wanton harvesting and removal of valuable black coral occurred for commercial markets.
Post-Bombing Conservation
Finally, in 1977, Molokini’s ecosystem was granted a reprieve from the abuses it had endured. The islet, caldera, and surrounding 77 acres of underwater terrain were declared a Marine Life Conservation District, and Molokini remains protected to this day.
Now Federally owned and protected by the US Coast Guard and the Hawai’i Division of Forestry and Wildlife, its use is closely monitored. In fact, Federal protections have increased, with stiff penalties for dropping anchor (a limited number of assigned moorings are used), touching or feeding wildlife, leaving waste of any kind, climbing upon the bluff, and even creating smoke from grills aboard boats while moored in the area.
Once a dangerous shallow submarine volcano extruding magma and roiling steam with violent force, shattering upon itself in the fury of creation, Molokini has survived pillage and plunder and finally mellowed to become a haven for marine researchers and visitors and find purpose and delight in exploring and enjoying this remarkable venue.