Maui County addresses urgent water shortages and aquifer sustainability concerns

The Maui County Council meeting on April 17, 2025, focused on critical water resource management issues, particularly concerning the sustainability of local aquifers. Council members expressed urgent concerns about the current state of water availability and the need for responsible management practices to protect this vital resource.

During the meeting, a council member highlighted the alarming findings from recent reports regarding the county's water supply. They emphasized the importance of ensuring that water promises align with actual availability, advocating for a more judicious use of existing water resources. The member stressed the need to prioritize the needs of residents and support cultural practices that depend on water, while also calling for significant investment in the protection and restoration of watersheds.

The discussion also touched on the complexities of the county's aquifer systems. It was noted that there are five independent aquifers in the region, with concerns raised about the sustainability of the Lahaina Aquifer, which has been under strain. The council is considering a partnership with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to study the Lanaiapoku Aquifer, as trends indicate increasing salinity levels in the Honokohau Aquifer, raising alarms about water quality.

Additionally, the council addressed the urgent need for the Kahana well to be operational by summer to prevent potential water shortages in West Maui. Without this well, the region could face severe water restrictions, classified as stage 2 and 3 shortages.

The meeting underscored the critical need for proactive measures in water management to ensure the sustainability of Maui's water resources and to safeguard the community's needs. The council plans to continue discussions on these pressing issues in future meetings.