In a recent government meeting, ranchers from Honokaiya voiced their ongoing struggle with water access, highlighting a dire situation that has persisted for 18 years. Cherilyn Wahine Kapu, representing her family, expressed frustration over the lack of water, which is essential for ranching operations. She pointed out the irony of being required to submit ranch plans without the fundamental resource of water, questioning the qualifications of those reviewing these plans.

Kapu detailed the hardships faced by her family, including the physical toll of hauling water from Waimea to their cattle on Mauna Kea, often twice daily. This arduous task has resulted in the loss of livestock and significant emotional distress, which she linked to broader mental health issues stemming from prolonged drought conditions. She urged the commission to consider the psychological impact of water scarcity, referencing academic studies on drought-related stress.

In her plea for solutions, Kapu proposed seeking approval for third-party grazing agreements to access drought assistance and secure a water irrigation system, which has already been designed but awaits necessary approvals. She emphasized the need for urgency, stating that the current situation is not only a violation of human rights but also an animal rights issue.

Commissioner Freitas acknowledged the ranchers' plight but noted that discussions regarding the water situation are complicated by ongoing litigation. He committed to exploring options to separate the ranch plan review from the water issue, promising to follow up with relevant parties to seek a resolution.

The meeting underscored the critical need for immediate action to address the water crisis affecting Honokaiya ranchers, as they continue to face significant challenges in their livelihoods and well-being.