The fight over water is nothing new on Maui. But the impact on the county’s ability to battle fires is coming clear.
With wildfires ravaging West Maui on Aug. 8, a state water official delayed the release of water that landowners wanted to help protect their property from fires. The water standoff played out over much of the day and the water didn’t come until too late.
Would be great if Hawaii and every coastal area could do this. Unfortunately, that’s a lot easier said than done. Not impossible and might be a necessary investment as fire risk increases though.
The fresh water lines already run practically anywhere developed, ready to go at the turn of a spigot or hydrant. Can’t send salt water through that without risking serious damage.
While truck/helicopter ocean water loads could be used (rinsing with fresh water after to prevent corrosion), the volume/accessibly just isn’t on the same level.