The Maui County Department of Water Supply (mauicounty.gov) announced a Stage 3 water shortage for the Upcountry service area, putting further strain on local businesses and residents. This escalation of water restrictions, effective October 17th, underscores the severity of the ongoing drought conditions impacting the island. The Upcountry service area includes communities such as Makawao, Kula, and Haiku, known for agriculture, tourism, and residential areas that rely heavily on water resources.
This Stage 3 declaration follows a Stage 2 water shortage already in effect for West Maui, as reported by Spectrum News, highlighting the widespread impact of the dry weather. The Stage 2 shortage, which began in September, restricted non-essential water use. The current Stage 3 level likely imposes even stricter limitations on water usage. These could include severe restrictions on irrigation, landscaping, and other commercial activities that consume significant amounts of water. The department’s mission is to provide clean water efficiently, and they request that the public conserve water (mauicounty.gov).
For businesses, the water shortage presents significant challenges. Restaurants may face limitations on water use for dishwashing and other operational needs. Hotels and resorts could be compelled to reduce landscape irrigation, potentially impacting the aesthetic appeal of their properties. Agricultural businesses will undoubtedly feel the pressure, especially those involved in crop cultivation. These businesses might need to invest in water-saving technologies, adapt their irrigation schedules, or even consider reducing the scale of their operations.
To mitigate the impacts, businesses and residents are encouraged to adhere strictly to water conservation measures, as detailed by the Maui County Department of Water Supply. This includes fixing leaks promptly, reducing outdoor water usage, and following any guidelines issued by the DWS. Failure to comply with the water restrictions from the county can result in penalties, as cited by Star-Advertiser.
