Across Haʻikū, stream restoration efforts are gaining momentum as community advocates and Maui County work to breathe life back into watercourses once diverted for agriculture. Maui County is petitioning the state to revise the interim in-stream flow standards for eight streams—from Kailua Gulch through Kakipi Gulch—to foster healthier flow levels that support traditional taro farming, native ecosystems, and shoreline fish populations (mauinow.com). Consultants Brown & Caldwell have spearheaded a feasibility framework that studied stream restoration and did a cost analysis on different options for new water sources. The report makes repeated reference to the Hamakualoa Open Space lands, underscoring the importance of this coastal preserve in shaping future water planning for the region. Two of the top candidate streams for restoration are the Kaupakalua and East Kuiaha, both of which go through Hamakualoa lands.
At Mālama Hāmākua Maui, we are deeply engaged in these conversations and next steps. In addition to supporting research through the Haʻikū Aquifer Research Project (haikumaui.org), MHM is openly exploring nearshore community action plans that connect upland stream health with coastal restoration and marine life. We are also beginning to kilo our streambeds—documenting flow, habitat conditions, and cultural use—and we welcome collaboration and input from community members. For background, the Haʻikū Stream Restoration page on the Haʻikū Community Association site provides valuable context and resources (haikumaui.org). Together, we can restore balance to Haʻikū’s waters, from mauka to makai.