HI SCR215

Request the Department of Land and Natural Resources to collaborate with federal, state, and county governments; landowners; and stakeholders to protect, restore, and manage West Maui wetlands and wetlands statewide.

Acknowledge that wetlands improve water quality, increase groundwater flows, provide habitats for native species, act as natural firebreaks, and benefit coastal water quality.

Note that Hawaii's historic wetlands, including Mokuhinia wetland on Maui's Lahaina floodplain, have been covered over by commercial and residential development over time.

Recognize that post-wildfire recovery efforts in Lahaina and West Maui provide an opportunity to rebuild and restore historic wetlands as part of broader statewide wetland restoration efforts.

Require transmission of certified copies to the EPA Administrator, Hawaii's congressional delegation, the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Board of Land and Natural Resources Chairperson, and all county mayors and council chairs.