Menehune Ditch

irrigation system, Hawaii, United States

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July 16, 2026

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The Menehune Ditch is a significant irrigation system located on the island of Kauai in Hawaii, United States. Constructed from smoothed lava stone, it is a testament to ancient engineering. According to legend, this remarkable structure was built overnight by the menehune, a mythical race of "little people," even before the arrival of Polynesians. This ditch is a key component of the island's water management, highlighting the historical importance of irrigation in Hawaii's agricultural development.12

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Waimea
A famous landmark is Menehune Ditch, a large irrigation system built of smoothed lava stone; according to legend, the structure, constructed before Polynesian settlement, was built in one night by menehunes (“little people”). Pop. (2000) 1,787; (2010) 1,855.
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A famous landmark is Menehune Ditch, a large irrigation system built of smoothed lava stone; according to legend, the structure, constructed before Polynesian settlement, was built in one night by menehunes (“little people”). Pop. (2000) 1,787; (2010) 1,855.
Read More