NFWF Coral Reef Conservation Fund: Maui Nui
Wastewater Solutions to Protect Coral Reefs in Kihei
Project Summary
Maui Nui, meaning Greater Maui, encompasses Haleakalā, West Maui, Kaho'olawe, Lāna'i, East Moloka'i, West Moloka'i, and Penguin Bank. We are working with partners at three priority sites in Maui Nui: Honokōwai, Kihei, and Lana’i to address specific local threats to coral reefs. Coral reefs and near shore water quality are negatively impacted by two primary sources of land-based pollution: 1) sediment coming from the adjacent mountains due to eroding agricultural lands; and 2) nutrients coming from municipal wastewater injection wells.
Together, with project partners including Maui Nui Marine Resource Council and Maui County, we will design and implement practices that reduce impacts on coral reefs from land based sources of wastewater and sediment pollution. Working with management and local partners we are designing best practices, piloting new approaches, and planning for future reef resilience.
In Kihei, wastewater injection into groundwater is one of the biggest threats to reef resilience.
Problem
Coral reefs are damaged by minimally treated wastewater. In west and south Maui, injecting wastewater into the ground is the current practice. Because of the local geology, injected wastewater moves through groundwater and emerges in the nearby ocean where it causes harm to beaches and coral reefs.
Solution
Affordable and practical alternatives to groundwater injection of wastewater are critically needed to protect the health of groundwater and coastal waters. This has implications for human health and coral reefs survival.
Implementation
Working with Maui Nui Marine Resource Council and Sunshine Vetiver Solutions, we are constructing and monitoring a pilot site demonstrating green infrastructure wastewater treatment methods. These methods provide a safe, affordable alternative to groundwater injection. In this pilot, we will determine precisely how much area would be required to safely treat all R1 wastewater in Maui using various restoration scenarios.
Outcomes
Natural wastewater treatment alternatives protect human communities, groundwater, and coral reefs. Reducing these stressors help the environment recover, thrive, and be resilient.
Funders and Partners National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, Maui Nui Marine Resources Council, Maui County, Sunshine Vetiver Solutions, University of Hawai’i Maui College
