Addressing Sea Level Rise and Coastal Threats in Maui

Maui is perhaps best known as a popular tourist destination. After all, the Hawaiian island is beloved for its world-famous beaches, the sacred ʻĪao Valley, views of humpback whales, farm-to-table cuisine, and the magnificent sunrise and sunset from Haleakalā. However, Maui is also facing some challenges related to climate change.

In this article, Maui County Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) planners David Yamashita and Jen Maydan discuss an important project initiated in 2020 to assess the vulnerability of beach parks and facilities to flooding and land loss due to sea level rise and other threats and to identify adaptation strategies to address these threats. Completed with the assistance of Tetra Tech, Inc., the project consists of four phases: (1) identify the vulnerability rating for each park; (2) prepare six general strategies; (3) develop an interactive web-based app; and (4) prepare more detailed recommendations for parks that are particularly vulnerable to coastal threats in the short term.

The analysis generated a wealth of information about park vulnerability and adaptation responses, which varied by district. Most parks, about 60 percent, have a medium adaptation potential, while 20 percent have a high potential, and 20 percent have a low potential. Of the six adaptation strategies, “maintain facilities and monitor conditions” was recommended for 30 percent of the 65 parks. “Assess park viability based on future access” was the second most recommended strategy, which indicates that park access roads also are vulnerable to shoreline hazards. A key takeaway is that sea-level rise is a problem that affects the DPR and state and county departments, all of which will need to coordinate and collaborate.

For more information, please read the source article.