In the wake of the devastating 2023 Maui wildfires, the Surfrider Foundation has taken a proactive step towards aiding the recovery of Lahaina and West Maui. They have launched a new digital resource, "Re-planting After Fire: A Fire-Resilient Landscape Guide for Lahaina & West Maui." This guide, created in collaboration with the Pacific Fire Exchange, the Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization, and other experts, offers crucial information for residents and business owners looking to rebuild with an emphasis on safety and environmental responsibility.
The guide acknowledges the profound impact of the wildfires, which led to the loss of life, homes, and businesses. The resource provides practical, locally-relevant advice crucial for fire-resilient landscaping, going beyond simply removing plants. It offers guidance on plant selection, maintenance, and overall landscape design to reduce fire risk and protect water resources. The guidelines emphasize the importance of healthy, hydrated landscapes and watersheds, crucial for future fire events and climate extremes. The goal is to help communities work together to reduce the chances of homes and businesses burning during wildfires.
This initiative encourages entrepreneurs and investors involved in the rebuilding process to consider incorporating fire-resistant landscaping principles in their projects. According to the Surfrider Foundation, the guide includes information on how fire spreads, the Home Ignition Zone, and water-wise landscaping tips. The guide even suggests fire-resilient plant lists for West Maui and Lahaina. This information is vital for local businesses like landscapers, nurseries, and construction companies that can incorporate these practices into their services, offering an advantage in a market increasingly focused on safety and sustainability.
Additional resources like the Beachapedia offer further detail, and are also available to help home and business owners navigate the complexities of landscape design in fire-prone zones. The resource also provides a framework for developing more sustainable and resilient communities, promoting the overall recovery of the region. The Surfrider Foundation is hosting a virtual webinar on January 27th, 2026, to walk through the guide with Pacific Fire Exchange, Surfrider's Ocean Friendly Gardens Program, and Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization.
