Using an Integrated Participatory Modeling Approach to Assess Water Management Options and Support Community Conversations on Maui

Andrea M Bassi,John Harrisson,Rushil S Mistry

doi:10.3390/su1041331

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to provide an integrated analysis of water distribution on Maui and the cross-sectoral impacts of policies and regulations aimed at rejuvenating and sustaining the deep-rooted culture on the island. Since the water diversion system was implemented in 1876 on the island of Maui, there has been contention among local interest groups over the right way to manage and allocate this precious resource. There is also concern over the availability of the precious resource in the long term, as the demand for water is expected to exceed the potential supply of water on Maui by 2020. This paper analyzes various long run scenarios of policy options presently being discussed on Maui. By collaborating with local experts, business leaders, and community members, to develop a tool that facilitates policy formulation and evaluation, informed decisions can then be made by the local community to ensure sustainable development.

Highlights

Founded in 1905, Maui County consists of the islands of Maui, Kahoolawe, Lanai, Molokai and Molokini
The baseline scenario, business as usual (BAU) assumes no changes in any of the current policies and regulations relating to water, and it mostly focuses on the future behavior of two key drivers of water demand and supply in Maui County, precipitation and visitors
Since water resources are exclusively dependent on rainfall on Maui, any changes in the rainfall patterns and subsequent frequency and duration of droughts can affect both ground water and surface water supplies [11], through an increase in stream flows and groundwater recharge

Summary

Introduction

Founded in 1905, Maui County consists of the islands of Maui, Kahoolawe, Lanai, Molokai and Molokini. The traditional economy of Maui was based on agriculture, which provided the original inhabitants the necessary food staples—but with the arrival of American and European immigrants in the late 18th century, the sugarcane and pineapple industries were born and agriculture became an integral element of Maui‘s economy, occupying more than half of the land within the County [2]. Following the decline in the agriculture sector, tourism became the fundamental driver of the county‘s economy, accounting for 40% of economic activity in Maui County today [2]. Maui County‘s tourism industry has shown moderate growth over the years at about 1.5% annually, with average daily visitors amounting to approximately 52,000 people [3]

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