Group News: Hawaiʻi Island, Maui, Oʻahu, and Kauaʻi
Hawaiʻi Island Group
The Maui fires - Lessons for Moku O Keawe
by the Hawaiʻi Island Group Executive Committee | Reading time: 5.75 minutes
KITV did a nice piece on the failures that exacerbated the Maui fire disaster. We now know that there were critical communications failures as key decision makers had no idea what was really going on or the extent of the damage in real time. Even the radio stations continued for the most part to play music as Lāhainā burned and panicked residents desperately sought information on how and where to evacuate.
The speed of the fire and intense heat due to extreme high wind conditions overwhelmed county fire crews who had both Kula and Lāhainā to deal with. Evidence is pointing to falling energized power lines setting off initial blazes in dry grasses and subsequently blocking numerous roads and streets needed to evacuate. All of this will be subject to extensive examination in the midst of massive lawsuits, but already there are some clear lessons for Hawaiʻi Island which also had a good sized fire.
Hawaiian Electric had a role in this disaster. The company has known for years that smart grid upgrades were needed to de-energize power lines when they go down. As an investor-owned utility they didn't want to spend the money out of their own pocket. Old wooden poles could have been upgraded to composite material manufactured poles that are more fire and wind resistant. Power lines could have been underground in areas where high wind conditions are common. With the state Attorney General bringing in an independent investigation, and through discovery from the lawsuits already announced, we will get more details as they play out.
We also learned that our local and state governments are under-budgeted/-funded for wildland fire fighting. County fire crews are trained in structural fires, not wildland fires. Solutions must be found and implemented ASAP.
Federal funding and other resources are available from the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) to fund the creation of plans as well as fire-fighting resources. The NIFC can work with the state and the counties to help them allocate resources. Rather than a system that seeks to protect residential areas after a fire has started and is on the verge of threatening structures, the county needs wildfire crews to be deployed to pre-planned/-existing perimeter firebreaks that have been previously established by prescribed burns, as well as by pre-approved/-evaluated grubbing and grading activity that avoids negative impacts to cultural and environmental rights and resources while providing maximum fire suppression effects.
Communication infrastructure is also part of the assistance NIFC can provide. There are ways to protect cell towers, Department of Water Supply pumps, and civil defense sirens from failing. These are high value targets for enhanced protection using prescribed burns or by mechanically removing fuel before a fire breaks out. Federal funding is now available for this from FEMA through the federal emergency declaration. Fire hydrants will stop working when wells and pumps lose power. Backup generation can be installed using solar and batteries and be switched on automatically in the event of an outage. Power conditioners are needed because power surges common with HELCO are eating pumps like those in Kona. When power lines go down, they cause a surge that trips shutdowns of pumps just when you need that water for fire fighting. A power conditioner deals with the surge and protects the equipment while preventing a complete outage.
On Maui, a decision was made to not use sirens as they are typically associated with tsunami events. That is easily solved by upgrading them to emit different tones or varying tones specific to different threats. Another approach is cell warning systems. Residents can be encouraged to have their cellphones and watches set up to allow for emergency notifications of local emergency events like wildfires. The point is that the technology is available in a form other than sirens or TV messages.
Pre-positioning assets like tanker trucks, helicopter water drop buckets, and small reservoirs set up in advance, inherently speeds any fire emergency response. Recycled water can be put to good use in this way. It is a drought-proof source of water and can also be used to irrigate areas next to residential housing or key infrastructure like electrical substations. For instance, Waikoloa has a golf course with a water feature that could serve or they have large fold-out water storage that can be deployed to connect hose lines for fire fighting.
With time being of essence, rather than waiting for some big housing development to put in an escape road for Waikōloa, why doesn't the county get the necessary approvals to build an unpaved roads sooner than later? Work with private property owners on the necessary easements in communities where wildfire risk exists and create pre-planned fire breaks or buffers in advance of the inevitable next fire.
One critical action that must be taken as soon as possible is the repair of the catchment/tank infrastructure at the Puʻu Waʻa Waʻa reservoir. The reservoir, located mauka of Māmalahoa Highway between Waikōloa Village and Kona Palisades, is above an expansive extremely dry, windy area. This one million gallon capacity reservoir can be used for fire suppression, but is nearly empty because damage caused by flooding has not been repaired.
Ultimately, some form of biological control for fountain grass is needed. This bunch grass loves fire. What was once a scattered infestation that resource management teams pulled up by hand to keep it out of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, has now become a situation where it has taken over vast areas of open land on Hawaiʻi Island.
Fire breaks and prescribed burns are needed till a biological control can be found. Prescribed burns are controversial and have to be done with great care by trained personnel when weather conditions are favorable. At Hawaiʻi Volcano National Park, it is used to address lava flow fires. When a lava flow came down the pali and hit non-native grasses, such as fountain and guinea grass along the coast, winds could then threaten lowland forests of native trees and vegetation. By burning out the grass, you prevent this.
ʻŌhaiʻula (Spencer Beach Park) was damaged by both high winds and fires. It hasn't gotten much media attention, but like Lāhainā, all that ash can wash off with rain and impact coastal ecosystems. There are some basic tools to help other than spraying chemicals.
In conclusion, the pre-planning for inevitable future wildfires on Hawaiʻi Island must begin yesterday. The plans and action described above need to be developed, funded, and implemented with the assistance of experienced experts as soon as possible. Then, our county should assist each community on the island to establish new or enhance existing Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT). Each year, the county working with the CERT should conduct "reality" drills that incorporate all aspects of emergency response, such as initial and subsequent communication, traffic control, evacuation, etc.
We must prepare now before another avoidable tragedy and loss of lives and livelihoods occurs.
Upcoming Outings
Sunday, September 10, 2023
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Hike (F/C)
Kaʻū Moku, Keauhou Ahupuaʻa, moderate, 4 miles, E=4,000’, +/- 200’
We will be hiking round trip from Puʻu Pua Ulu also known as Bird Park along a gravel road parallel to Mauna Loa Road through the Tree Molds viewing area then across the highway at KMC to Kilauea Crater Rim. We will pass through mesic forest with numerous native plants then loop back along Mauna Loa Road with spectacular views of the maunas to our cars. Bring plenty of water, snacks and sun protection. ROD protocol will be followed.
Call leader, Diane Ware, at 808-967-8642 for details on time and meeting place.
Maui Group
Upcoming Outings
Sunday September 3, 2023
Makapipi Watershed Trail (C/E)
East Maui, 4 miles
Varied terrain. Ko‘olau Ditch trail: Makapipi to Kopili‘ula Stream. Scenic vistas, pools, waterfalls, native plant life. Hike crosses several bridges with no handrails, not recommended for those sensitive to heights. EMI waiver required (see emi.html). Meet at 8:00am at the Ha‘ikū Community Center. Limit 15.
Leader: Rob Weltman, robw@worldspot.com
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Saturday, September 9, 2023
King’s Highway (Hoapili Trail) to Kanaio Beach (C/E)
La Perouse, 6 miles
King’s Highway from La Perouse Bay to shady beach south of major lava flow with interesting archeological artifacts. Bring lunch, water, hat, sunscreen, and hiking boots. Also bring a bathing suit (water shoes for the rocky entry) if you want to get into the water at Kanaio Beach. Most of the hike is on lava and fully exposed to the sun. Meet at La Perouse parking lot at 8:00am.
Leader: Kit Carlan, kit.carlan@gmail.com
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Saturday, September 16, 2023
Līpoa Trail (C/E)
South Maui, 3 miles
An easy stroll along Kīhei’s newest trail – around the Maui Research and Technology Park area, now called Līpoa, Maui. The trail crosses former pasture land and runs along the South ridge of the Waipuilani Gulch, then finishes in passing by the Kīhei Charter School and Maui Brewing Company. There are major development plans for this area; this is an opportunity to enjoy the views and consider what type of development may be in the best interest of the community. Almost no shade, so bring sun protection and water. There are a few short steep sections on gravel. Meet across North Holopono Street from the MEDB.
Leader: Rob Weltman, robw@worldspot.com
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Friday, September 22, 2023
Wailea 670 Southern Boundary
South Maui (Palauʻea), 3 miles
Hike the historic Kalama-Kanaio trail to the southern boundary of the 670 acre Honuaʻula Partners parcel, then explore this seldom visited part of the future preserve to discover stepping stone trails, wandering rock walls and many stone habitations and terraces. Some rugged terrain, once we leave the main trail.
Leader: Lucienne de Naie, huelogrl@icloud.com
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Sunday, September 24, 2023
Hoapili Trail Hike and Anchialine Ponds Exploration (C/E)
La Perouse, 3.5 miles
Hike south from La Perouse Bay on the King’s Highway (Hoapili Trail) to Cape Hanamanioa (Lighthouse Beach), a remote and beautiful area of Maui. Explore anchialine ponds, and learn about these unique ecosystems and their cultural uses. Meet 8:00am at the La Perouse parking lot. Bring water, snacks/lunch, reef-safe sun protection, hat, and footwear with toe protection and strong soles. There are port-a-potties at the La Perouse parking lot. We will return to the parking lot by about 12 noon. Limit 18.
Leader: Annie Schultz, acm_schultz@hotmail.com or 808-344-6628
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Saturday, September 30, 2023
Hāmakua Mālama Service Outing (C/E/S)
Ha‘ikū (Kaupakulua ahupuaʻa), 2 miles
Help clear away abandoned rubbish from gulches in Ha‘ikū’s Hāmākua Coastal Preserve and re-plant native species. Tools, snacks, trash bags, etc will be provided. Co-sponsored by Mālama Hāmākua.
Leader: Lucienne de Naie, huelogrl@icloud.com
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Oʻahu Group
Sierra Club honored for establishment of the boulder barrier at Wāwāmalu Beach, Oʻahu
by Reese Liggett, Oʻahu Group Outings Leader | Reading time: 1.5 minutes
Certificates conferred April 9, 2023 honored the Sierra Club of Hawaiʻi as leading advocate for a boulder barrier at Wāwāmalu Beach to mitigate off-roading-vehicular damage and Sierra Club outing volunteers for continuing conservation work to restore its natural features.
At a Honolulu City Council meeting on August 9, 2023, the city council cited the Sierra Club Hawaiʻi Chapter for leading others to advocate for the installation of boulder barriers at Wāwāmalu Beach on the Kaiwi coast. The boulder barriers have been effective at mitigating illegal off-road driving and safeguarding the natural features of the Kaiwi Coast at Wāwāmalu Beach since its installation by the city’s Department of Parks and Recreation in early 2021. The city council presented a certificate, signed by all city council members honoring and recognizing not only the Sierra Club Hawaiʻi Chapter, but also Oʻahu Group Outing Leaders Suzan Harada, Reese Liggett and others for their continued efforts at conserving and protecting the natural environment at Wāwāmalu Beach on Oʻahu’s southeast facing shore on the Kaiwi Coast.
Sierra Club activists urged then-candidate Tommy Waters to install the boulders during each of his three tries for the district 4 council seat for which Sierra Club endorsed his candidacy. In a 2019 special election he became the district 4 council member and has held the position of Honolulu City Council Chair since 2022. Waters saw to the inclusion of money for the boulder barriers in the ’20-21 Honolulu budget and it is now a reality that has much reduced offroad-driving on this about-five-acre piece of seacoast parkland that is the natural gem of the Maunalua-Makapu’u State Scenic Byway on the coast of the Kaiwi Channel. It is cherished for its white-sand beach, dunes, volcanic shoreline rocks and its natural habitat for Native Hawaiian vegetation and wildlife.
Sierra Club members and the public are welcome to participate in the monthly Conservation Service Project outing at Wāwāmalu Beach that takes place the third Sunday morning of most months.
Sierra Club Oʻahu Group pau hana, Thursday, October 19, 5-7:30PM
Aloha Beer Garden, 700 Queen Street across from Lex Brodie’s
Time for Sierra Clubbers to socialize, organize, and aggrandize our hopes and actions for a better environment starting right here in Hawaiʻi nei. Too long we’ve been on screens and social media—time to be face-to-face, smile-to-smile, and ideas-to-ideas.
No host, no tickets, or reservations—but do share pupus you like! Or better yet, order a tasting flight and share some of your four short glasses. And there are plenty of bevs besides beer and spirits. Early birds, please do snag some tables. Validated parking up the ramp just left of Aloha Beer Co.
Upcoming Outings
Sunday, September 3, 7am
Mālama Tree Crew: Ala Mahamoe Tree Maintenance
1,000+ trees were planted in this area by volunteers led by Professor Mora, in partnership with The Outdoor Circle, Mālama Learning Center, Ko‘olau Mountain Watershed Partnership, and the Garden Club of Honolulu in 2018. Unfortunately it was a rough winter and many trees died. However, in the years since, we have planted almost a thousand trees to re-establish the native watershed—and most of them have survived! Help us keep them thriving! We will be watering, weeding, and clearing debris from around these recently planted trees. Meet at 7am at the gate between 1800 and 1812 Ala Mahamoe St. Tools provided. Bring long pants, long-sleeve shirt, water, hat, sunscreen, gloves. Reservations required at least 1 day prior to makikirandy@yahoo.com.
Sunday, September 10, 7:45-11am
Mālama Tree Crew: Pālehua Service Project
Native forest restoration.The work is in Akupu Enclosure, restoring ʻelepaio habitat. Tasks include planting, weeding, watering, fertilizing and berming. Please bring water, a snack, and gloves. There may be some mosquitoes so long pants and long-sleeve shirts are recommended. Meet at Makakilo Community Park at 7:45am. RSVP to leader Randy Ching at makikirandy@yahoo.com.
Sunday, September 17, 8:30am-1:30pm
Pālehua ʻElepaio Enclosure "Akupu" Service
We will be outplanting native plants to restore the native habitat for the endemic Oʻahu ʻelepaio. Space is limited as we will be working in a sensitive area where the endangered native ʻelepaio is nesting and there are some native plants already growing which we don’t want to disturb or damage. We may hear and see some native ʻelepaio as we work in the area, so bring a camera as well. Bring gloves and hand tools for weeding alien plants if you have any. Pack water and a snack and definitely mosquito repellent. We plan to meet in Makakilo at 8:30am and finish by 1 pm. Reservations required at least one week prior. Contact Clyde Kobashigawa, clydekobashigawa@hawaii.rr.com, for reservations with first and last name and phone number. Co-leader Curtis Kawamoto.
No third Saturday Conservation Service Project at Wāwāmalu this month! See you in October!
Group shot from last month’s service project at Mt. Kaʻala. Photo credit: Suzan Harada.
Kauaʻi Group
Colonial impacts on Kauaʻi's environment
by Kip Goodwin, Kauaʻi Group ExCom member | Reading time: 1.75 minutes
On Kauaʻi as on Maui, the predations of Hawaiʻi’s long history of colonialism continue to burden the island community.
After more than a century of a short-term profit extractive economy, that replaced indigenous management in harmony with the natural environment, we are left with a burden of healing a degraded environment.
Massive diversion of water, originally to grow sugar cane, continues today, with unjust distribution away from local farm operations to hotels and golf courses. For the past 12 years, the Kauaʻi Group has testified on the side of water justice before the Board of Land and Natural Resources. And the Kauaʻi Group continues to monitor east side hotel development efforts on the “Coconut Coast”, including Coco Palms Resort, responding to public concerns about overtourism in a time of climate disruption.
As on Maui, former plantation cane land today grows fuel load for potential brush fires on the south and west sides of our island.
And as if the threat of a wildfire isn’t worrying enough, aging reservoirs are alarming when predicted extreme rain events are starting to happen. The Waitā reservoir, for example, is the state’s biggest, holding 9,900 acre feet of water. A 2018 inspection ranked its condition as fair, with a high hazard classification, meaning a high potential for loss of life. It’s barely a mile uphill from Kōloa town. And, the Department of Land and Natural Resources is drafting an Environmental Impact Statement to decommission the Wailua reservoir.
It’s ironic that nostalgia lingers for that time when an industry ruled Hawaiʻi. Kōloa celebrates the rich history of the mixing of cultures in that era with its annual Plantation Days event. But the harsh background of exploitation of workers, their living conditions and their fight to unionize, should be memorialized too by event organizers. Meanwhile descendent companies of the Big 5 sugar barons continue extractive water and land management practices while benefiting from the same residual public trust.
The Kauaʻi Group monitors developments in Lāhainā. A predictable predatory land grab, evinced by the appearance of slick TV ads promoting lawyer consortiums, is being met by Lāhainā residents committed to rebuilding their town and healing the environment.