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Commission approves two stream/bridge permits, defers a third pending environmental review
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Summary
The Water Commission approved a Hookuaaina stream diversion permit with conditions and a Waka bridge stream‑channel permit (both passed 6‑0) and deferred a Turtle Bay culvert permit to allow the applicant to confirm whether prior EIS/343 compliance covered the work.
At its meeting the Commission on Water Resource Management took three formal actions on infrastructure permits.
Hookuaaina (SCWP 63893): the commission approved a Stream Diversion Works Permit to restore an existing diversion, install a 20‑inch buried pipe and divert up to 1.616 MGD to irrigate about 16.9 acres of kalo and diversified agriculture. Commissioners asked staff to clarify the combined effects of stream channel alteration and diversion on the Honokohau IIFS and to verify the applicant’s estimate that 80% of withdrawn water will return as return flow; staff was directed to include additional analysis in the submittal. Motion passed with six votes.
Turtle Bay (SCAP 6438.3): staff recommended approval of a con‑span culvert to accommodate a new roadway on Turtle Bay resort property, but commissioners requested that the applicant confirm whether the prior Turtle Bay environmental impact assessment (and any Chapter 343 compliance) included the culvert work. Because the applicant could not confirm at the hearing, the commission continued (deferred) the matter to the Oct. 28 meeting so the applicant can provide documentation.
Waka Bridge (SCAP 6004.34.8): the commission approved the Department of Transportation’s plan to replace the Waka bridge over the Kanui Amano stream (Kamuela), which includes removing the central pier and improving hydraulic conditions. The project includes archaeological monitoring and a condition requiring a plan to mitigate potential increases in downstream velocities and erosion — and to address the risk of uncovering unexploded ordnance (UXO) during excavation. Commissioners approved the staff recommendation 6‑0 with conditions.
Votes at a glance: SCWP 63893 (Hookuaaina) — approved (6 yes); SCAP 6438.3 (Turtle Bay) — continued for EIS/343 confirmation; SCAP 6004.34.8 (Waka Bridge) — approved (6 yes).
Next steps: staff will docket applicant follow‑ups for the Oct. 28 meeting and will collect required follow‑up documentation for approved projects, including an erosion/UXO plan and post‑construction return‑flow measurements.
