MOKUULA-MOKUHINIA ECOSYSTEM RESTORATION ON PRIORITY LIST

Ecosystem Restoration at Mokuula and Mokuhinia in West Maui is one of the projects listed for priority if funding becomes available under the federal Omnibus Appropriations Act.The project would help to develop tidal wetlands that provide habitat for endangered and native waterfowl species.The site remains historically significant as a political and spiritual center and prior home of Maui’s chiefly lines.The area once included a small island and wetland area with taro patches and fishponds.Although a dollar amount was not listed under the program, the corps was directed to give first priority to projects listed in the program report.

The bill is awaiting the President’s signature, and includes $372 million for Hawaii projects.

Other items without specified allocations, but included on the priority list are as follows:

• Keopu-Hienaloli Streams Flood Damage Reduction:Funds would initiate the design phase of the project, which is critical to the overall implementation of a flood mitigation plan for the growing Kailua-Kona area.Flooding problems within the Keopu and Hienaloli basins are attributed to inadequately defined channels, accumulation of debris and vegetation, steep slopes, and inadequate channel and culvert capacities.
• Kuliouou Stream Flood Damage Reduction Modifications:An upstream development has created high and unstable flows to enter into the channel.During heavy rainfall, the Kuliouou Stream floodwaters reach very high velocities that have caused damage to the flood control channel, and to private and public property in the residential community.The proposed modifications are intended to correct the situation.
• Palai Stream Flood Damage Reduction :Funds are for the preparation, negotiation, and execution of the Project Cooperation Agreement for the Palai Stream Flood Damage Reduction project.Significant damage to roads, residences, bridges, drainage systems, and personal property has occurred over the years due to flooding of the Palai Stream.
• Wailele Stream, Oahu
• Kahoolawe Small Boat Harbor :Funds for this initiative continue the feasibility phase for the Kahoolawe Small Boat Harbor.The Island of Kahoolawe is of great significance to Native Hawaiians and others who consider it a significant symbol of cultural survival and regeneration.
• North Kohala Navigation Improvements :Funds for this initiative are to continue the feasibility phase for the North Kohala Navigational Improvements.The project involves an investigation of navigational improvements in the North Kohala area, which has been devoid of improved boat launching facilities for commercial and recreational boat use for many years.
• Kahana Pond
• Kaunakakai Stream This initiative will restore habitat for the native endangered Hawaiian Stilt bird by creating 2.75 acres of shallow ponds and wetlands within the Kaunakakai Stream.

(Posted by Wendy OSHER © 2009, placeholder image by Wendy OSHER © 2009)