Fresh water is a finite resource that follows a natural cycle established over many millions of years.The majority of Maui's water delivery systems were designed to serve a plantation era economy that has been gradually shifting towards more urbanized uses of former plantation lands.
As this shift occurs, new water management systems and options, such as additional storage capacity, need to be utilized to ensure that a reliable supply of good quality water will be available and fairly apportioned far into the future.
Luci talks to Kahului Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators to
explore ways to re-direct, not inject the 5 mgd of treated water
that the plant produces as part of a larger plan to replace stream
water with reclaimed water in nearby cane fields.
Responsible water resource management:
- Based on accurate knowledge of the island's water capacities under best and worst case conditions.
- Commit the resources necessary to care for the health of the watershed lands that are the source of all fresh water.
- Give Maui's streams, springs and wetlands a chance to regain their natural life cycles to recharge aquifers we all depend upon and restore streamlife populations.
- Update building codes to allow maximum water use efficiency in homes, farms and businesses
- Expedite funding to complete "dual ag line" to support diversified agriculture upcountry
The Council has an opportunity to work with the Mayor and guide Maui towards a 21st century water management system, built upon respect for the past and realistic assessment of future water supplies.
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