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OHA to hire hydrologist after inconclusive Anahola stream diversion investigation; trustees approve budget allocation
Summary
OHA reported site visits and historic diversion registrations for Anahola, said DLNR records show six registered diversions from 1989, and trustees approved $60,000 across FY26–27 for a hydrologist to support water‑investigation work.
Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustees received an update July 15 on community concerns about persistent low flows and suspected stream diversions in Anahola and on OHA’s next steps to investigate potable water availability for Department of Hawaiian Home Lands pastoral and agriculture lots.
Stacy Ferrer, Kapohana (OHA administration), summarized two site visits by OHA staff and partners to trace Anahola Stream through remote terrain and dense forest; she said the visits were inconclusive for locating the diversion points. Ferrer said OHA sent a letter to DLNR chair Don Chang on Feb. 5 requesting details on registered diversions, environmental impacts and records of cultural consultation.
Ferrer reported DLNR responded on Feb. 25 confirming six stream diversions in Anahola were registered in 1989 and that no new diversion permits have been issued since; the agency said there are no environmental assessments or consultation records for the diversion activities identified in the area. To strengthen OHA’s technical work, Ferrer said the board approved $60,000 in the FY26–27 budget to hire a hydrologist to support water‑related compliance and technical consultation.
OHA staff said they are teaming with DHHL’s planning department to continue the investigation and will use the hydrologist’s findings to inform reporting and possible advocacy on water management for beneficiaries.
Ending: OHA described the hydrologist hire and coordination with DHHL as the immediate next steps; staff said results will be shared with the community as investigations proceed.
