Ala Wai Watershed Project

Project Objectives

Goal

The project goal is to improve the overall quality of the watershed, from the crest of the Ko`olaus to the nearshore waters, while minimizing risk of flood damages to the public.


Objectives

The objectives of the project are currently being refined. The draft objectives are as follows:

• Flood risk management: Reduce flood hazards to property and life safety within the Ala Wai watershed through measures that include natural, engineered and social processes;


• Ecosystem restoration: Preserve, restore, or reverse the degradation of natural watershed function and processes, where possible, throughout the watershed, including the urban areas;


• Water Quality: Improve water quality in streams and the canal, and minimize degradation of nearshore water quality in support of Clean Water Act swimming and fishing goals


• Water Supply: Increase water supply and conserve potable resources through groundwater recharge and stormwater reclamation and reuse;


• Recreation: Improve public use, access, recreation, and environmental education opportunities in association with the flood damage reduction and ecosystem restoration measures;


• Stakeholder Involvement: Develop and implement a stakeholder process that will result in the attainment of the project objectives and foster a long-term sense of kuleana for the watershed; and


• Infrastructure Maintenance: Address the need for reliable maintenance of the channels, including existing and future infrastructure.