HI SR192

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

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

Note that Mokuhinia wetland on Maui's Lahaina floodplain historically served as a fishpond and taro patch but has been covered over by commercial and residential development.

Identify the post-wildfire recovery period in Lahaina and West Maui as an opportunity to rebuild and restore Mokuhinia and other historic wetlands.

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