The recent completion of restoration at the Olowalu temporary debris storage site represents a significant milestone in Maui's long road to recovery following the devastating 2023 wildfires. The Maui Now report confirmed the closure of the TDS site. The USACE spearheaded this crucial operation, which involved the removal and transfer of approximately 400,000 tons of debris.
The Olowalu site, strategically located near a former landfill, served as an interim holding area for the massive amount of debris generated by the fires. The process began in January 2024 with the initial transfer of debris to the site. The subsequent phase, moving the debris from the TDS to the Permanent Disposal Site (PDS) in Central Maui, commenced on June 16, 2025. This multi-agency effort, as highlighted by Hawaii News Now, involved the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Environmental Protection Agency, the County of Maui, the State of Hawaii, and numerous local partners.
The completion of this phase signifies not only the end of a major cleanup operation but also signals progress towards the long-term recovery of the affected communities. As detailed in a recent Star-Advertiser article, restoration efforts included removing infrastructure, such as liners and leachate systems, as well as the removal of temporary traffic signals used to facilitate debris transport. The successful conclusion of this project offers a glimpse of hope and rebuilding for local businesses and the residents affected by the wildfires.
The meticulous planning and execution of the debris removal and site restoration reflect a commitment to environmental protection and community safety. Ongoing soil and groundwater testing will continue to ensure the effectiveness of protective measures, as stated in the report by Hawaii Public Radio. This collaborative effort underscores the resilience of Maui and its collective dedication to recovery.
