In response to the devastating Lahaina wildfire that destroyed its laboratory, Hui O Ka Wai Ola, a community-based water quality monitoring program, is launching four additional water testing sites in West Maui. This organization, which is a partnership between The Nature Conservancy, Maui Nui Marine Resource Council, and West Maui Ridge to Reef Initiative, has been actively monitoring coastal water conditions in West Maui since the wildfire. They were the first group to perform post-fire sampling in the area and have continued their efforts by collecting samples from various sites. With a focus on producing quality data that can be used by state and local organizations, Hui O Ka Wai Ola plays a vital role in assessing the impacts of the wildfires on Maui’s nearshore coral reefs. Additionally, they are collaborating with other research partners and organizations to further analyze the collected samples and provide valuable insights.
This image is property of media.mauinow.com.
Overview
Hui O Ka Wai Ola, a community-based water quality monitoring program, has been impacted by the devastating Lahaina wildfire. This article will provide an overview of the background of Hui O Ka Wai Ola and the specific impact of the Lahaina wildfire on the organization.
Background of Hui O Ka Wai Ola
Hui O Ka Wai Ola is a partnership between The Nature Conservancy, Maui Nui Marine Resource Council, and West Maui Ridge to Reef Initiative. The organization actively monitors coastal water conditions in West Maui, with a focus on maintaining the health of coral reefs. They work under a quality assured project plan, ensuring the production of reliable data that can be used by state and local organizations.
The Lahaina Wildfire and its Impact on the Organization
The devastating Lahaina wildfire, which occurred on August 8th, caused significant damage to Hui O Ka Wai Ola’s laboratory. The organization lost access to their previous testing sites and faced challenges in collecting water samples in the burn zone. However, Hui O Ka Wai Ola quickly responded to the wildfire’s impact and took steps to continue their monitoring efforts.
Response to the Lahaina Wildfire
In response to the Lahaina wildfire, Hui O Ka Wai Ola has implemented several measures to increase their water testing capabilities in West Maui.
Increase in Water Testing Sites in West Maui
To compensate for the loss of their previous testing sites, Hui O Ka Wai Ola has launched four additional water testing sites in West Maui. These new sites include Mala Tavern, Mala Ramp, Papalaua Street, and Lahaina Harbor. By expanding their sampling locations, Hui O Ka Wai Ola aims to gather comprehensive data on water quality in the area.
Partnership with Other Organizations
Hui O Ka Wai Ola has also partnered with other organizations to enhance their monitoring efforts. The Nature Conservancy, Maui Nui Marine Resource Council, and West Maui Ridge to Reef Initiative work together to ensure the production of reliable data. This collaboration strengthens the organization’s ability to provide valuable information to state and local organizations.
Post-Fire Sampling in the Area
Hui O Ka Wai Ola was the first group to perform post-fire sampling in the affected area. By collecting samples from 15 West Maui sites flanking either side of Lahaina, they gather crucial data on the impact of the wildfire on water quality. These samples will be tested for the presence of heavy metals, volatile organic compounds, and semi-volatile organic compounds in collaboration with research partners. The processing of water samples is currently underway, and the findings will be released in the future.
Quality Assured Monitoring
One of the key aspects of Hui O Ka Wai Ola’s work is their commitment to quality assured monitoring.
Environmental Groups Working under a Quality Assured Project Plan
Unlike many other environmental groups, Hui O Ka Wai Ola operates under a quality assured project plan. This ensures that the data they collect is reliable and can be used by state and local organizations for decision-making purposes. By adhering to strict quality standards, Hui O Ka Wai Ola contributes to the overall accuracy of water quality assessments in West Maui.
Production of Reliable Data for State and Local Organizations
Hui O Ka Wai Ola’s emphasis on quality assured monitoring allows them to produce reliable data on coastal water conditions. This data is valuable to state and local organizations, as it helps them understand the health of the marine ecosystem in West Maui. By providing accurate and comprehensive information, Hui O Ka Wai Ola plays a crucial role in supporting environmental management efforts.
Water Testing Sites
To effectively monitor water quality in West Maui, Hui O Ka Wai Ola operates multiple testing sites.
Existing Lahaina Sites: 505 Front St., Kauaula Road, and Polanui-Uhailio
Before the Lahaina wildfire, Hui O Ka Wai Ola had three existing testing sites in Lahaina. These sites were located at 505 Front St., Kauaula Road, and Polanui-Uhailio. Despite the challenges caused by the wildfire, Hui O Ka Wai Ola has resumed sampling at these sites, allowing for continuity in data collection.
New Sampling Sites: Mala Tavern, Mala Ramp, Papalaua Street, and Lahaina Harbor
In response to the wildfire, Hui O Ka Wai Ola has launched new sampling sites in West Maui. These include Mala Tavern, Mala Ramp, Papalaua Street, and Lahaina Harbor. The addition of these sites expands Hui O Ka Wai Ola’s monitoring capabilities and provides a more comprehensive understanding of water quality in the area.
Challenges in Collecting Water Samples
Collecting water samples in the burn zone presents unique challenges for Hui O Ka Wai Ola.
Logistics of Collecting Samples in the Burn Zone
Accessing the burn zone and collecting water samples present logistical difficulties for Hui O Ka Wai Ola. The ongoing tragedy and recovery efforts in the area have made it challenging to navigate the affected areas. Despite these challenges, Hui O Ka Wai Ola is dedicated to safely and ethically entering coastal waters to collect samples.
Collaboration with Government Officials and Community Members
Hui O Ka Wai Ola collaborates closely with government officials and community members to overcome the challenges of collecting water samples. Working together, they ensure the safety of volunteers and adhere to ethical standards when entering the water. This collaboration is essential in conducting effective water quality monitoring in West Maui.
Safety Concerns for Volunteers
The safety of volunteers is a top priority for Hui O Ka Wai Ola. Given the ongoing recovery efforts and potential hazards in the burn zone, precautions are taken to ensure the well-being of those collecting water samples. Safety protocols and training are implemented to mitigate risks and maintain a safe working environment.
Collaboration with Research Partners
Hui O Ka Wai Ola collaborates with research partners to enhance their monitoring efforts.
Testing for Heavy Metals, Volatile Organic Compounds, and Semi-Volatile Organic Compounds
To gain a comprehensive understanding of water quality in West Maui, Hui O Ka Wai Ola tests water samples for the presence of heavy metals, volatile organic compounds, and semi-volatile organic compounds. These substances can have detrimental effects on marine ecosystems and human health, and their presence needs to be monitored closely. The collaboration with research partners allows for specialized testing and analysis of these substances.
Processing of Water Samples by Partner Organizations
The processing of water samples is done in collaboration with partner organizations. These organizations have the expertise and facilities to handle the samples and conduct detailed analysis. By leveraging these partnerships, Hui O Ka Wai Ola ensures that accurate and reliable data is generated from the water samples collected.
Upcoming Release of Findings
Currently, the findings from the testing of water samples collected by Hui O Ka Wai Ola are yet to be released. Once the analysis is complete, the organization will publish their findings, contributing to the overall understanding of the impact of the Lahaina wildfire on water quality in West Maui.
Continuous Monitoring
Hui O Ka Wai Ola engages in continuous monitoring of water samples to track various parameters related to water quality.
Collection and Testing of Samples for Temperature, pH, Salinity, and Dissolved Oxygen
Staff and volunteers from Hui O Ka Wai Ola have been actively collecting water samples since August 14th. These samples are tested for temperature, pH, salinity, and dissolved oxygen. These parameters provide important insights into the overall health of the marine ecosystem in West Maui. The continuous monitoring allows for the detection of any abnormalities or changes in these parameters over time.
Normal Ranges Observed
The continuous monitoring efforts by Hui O Ka Wai Ola have shown that the observed ranges for temperature, pH, salinity, and dissolved oxygen in West Maui waters are within normal levels. This is an encouraging sign for the health of the marine ecosystem, indicating that no significant shifts have occurred as a result of the Lahaina wildfire. However, ongoing monitoring is essential to track any changes or potential long-term effects.
Collaboration with Surfrider Blue Water Task Force
Hui O Ka Wai Ola collaborates with the Surfrider Blue Water Task Force to further enhance their monitoring efforts.
Testing for the Bacteria Enterococcus in West Maui Waters
As part of their collaboration with the Surfrider Blue Water Task Force, Hui O Ka Wai Ola tests West Maui waters for the presence of Enterococcus bacteria. Enterococcus is known to cause swimming-associated gastrointestinal illness and serves as an indicator of fecal pollution. By monitoring Enterococcus levels, Hui O Ka Wai Ola can assess the safety of West Maui waters for recreational activities.
Link to Surfrider Website for Findings
The findings from the Enterococcus testing can be found on the Surfrider website. This allows for easy access to the information and promotes transparency in the monitoring process. By sharing these findings, Hui O Ka Wai Ola contributes to the collective knowledge on water quality in West Maui and aids in public awareness and education.
Accessing Previous Data
Previous data collected by Hui O Ka Wai Ola is available online for easy access and reference.
Hui O Ka Wai Ola’s Data Available Online
To access previous data collected by Hui O Ka Wai Ola, individuals can visit their website. The online database provides a comprehensive collection of information on water quality in West Maui, allowing researchers, scientists, and interested individuals to explore the findings and gain insights into the health of the marine ecosystem.
Link to the Online Database
A link to the online database can be found on Hui O Ka Wai Ola’s website. This ensures easy navigation and access to the data, facilitating further research and analysis.
Supporting the Organization
Individuals who wish to support Hui O Ka Wai Ola in rebuilding their West Maui lab can do so through donations.
Information on How to Donate to Rebuilding the West Maui Lab
To contribute to the rebuilding efforts of Hui O Ka Wai Ola’s West Maui lab, individuals can access the relevant information on their website. The organization provides detailed instructions on how to donate, ensuring that the process is seamless and efficient.
Link to Donation Page
A link to the donation page can be found on Hui O Ka Wai Ola’s website. By clicking on the link, individuals can make a contribution towards rebuilding the lab, supporting the organization’s mission of monitoring and protecting water quality in West Maui.
In conclusion, Hui O Ka Wai Ola’s response to the Lahaina wildfire has been comprehensive and determined. Through the establishment of new water testing sites, collaborations with research partners, continuous monitoring efforts, and support from the community, Hui O Ka Wai Ola continues to play a vital role in ensuring the health of West Maui’s marine ecosystem.