The Board of Land and Natural Resources (BLNR) approved on March 27 the acquisition of certain Wahiawā Irrigation System lands to help preserve water resources and support neighboring communities. BLNR’s Acting Chairperson Ryan Kanaka‘ole said the board made its decision after considering several important issues affecting the future of the state.
Kanaka‘ole said, “Today, the Board of Land and Natural Resources weighed several important issues to determine the best situation for the future of our state.” He added, “Facing the potential loss of the Wahiawā Reservoir, the Board voted for State acquisition of this resource to help preserve many benefits for neighboring communities, including a resource that helps recharge our groundwater aquifer, wildfire mitigation, public recreation, and irrigation to help sustain the agricultural security of our islands.”
Kanaka‘ole also noted a recent trend where more private landowners have sought permits to remove their dams. “This has resulted in a substantial decline in Hawaiʻi’s freshwater resources at a time when periods of drought have become far more common. The Boards’s decision moves us one step closer to securing our access to the vital fresh water that the Wahiawā Reservoir provides.”
The transfer agreement involves Dole Food Company Inc., which currently owns these lands; state agencies including BLNR; and Hawaii’s Agribusiness Development Corporation (ADC). This agreement is subject to funding availability. In 2023, Act 218 authorized Hawaii’s government either through negotiation or eminent domain to acquire these assets and maintain related infrastructure.
The ADC Board is scheduled to meet on March 31 regarding further acquisitions from Sustainable Hawaii LLC. If approved, work will begin on spillway retrofitting and embankment improvements. All transfers must be recorded with DLNR’s Bureau of Conveyances by June 30 for full ownership.
These actions align with broader efforts by Hawaii State Executive – Governor Josh Green’s administration which supports wildfire-affected communities and veterans while focusing on recovery efforts according to its official website. The governor’s office also emphasizes expanding healthcare access, addressing homelessness through housing programs, tax reform initiatives for affordability, advancing renewable energy collaboration with various entities, combating climate change policies statewide—including support for regions like Lahaina—and emphasizing public policy around housing according to its official website.