Maui County is set to begin a significant debris removal operation on June 16, 2025, aimed at clearing approximately 400,000 tons of non-hazardous debris from the island. This initiative, discussed during the Water and Infrastructure Committee meeting, will involve a fleet of 50 trucks operating daily to transport the debris to a permanent disposal site.
The operation is part of a phased approach that follows the earlier removal of hazardous materials by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). The focus now shifts to safely managing non-hazardous debris already collected at a temporary disposal site.
To ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards, each truck will be lined with industrial plastic to contain the debris, which will be wetted to minimize dust during transport. After loading, the trucks will be weighed to adhere to Department of Transportation regulations before heading to the designated disposal location.
This operation is a crucial step in restoring the affected areas of Maui and reflects the ongoing commitment of local authorities and federal agencies to support the community's recovery efforts. As the debris removal progresses, residents can expect a cleaner and safer environment, paving the way for further recovery initiatives in the coming months.