The cancellation of the Sentry Tournament of Champions at the Kapalua Golf Course on Maui, owned by TY Management Corp. (owned by the founder of Uniqlo), due to water scarcity, has sent ripples through the island's economy. According to Civil Beat's recent report, the drought has left the course without sufficient irrigation, rendering the course unplayable and jeopardizing the significant economic contribution the tournament makes to Maui. The decision underscores the severity of the water crisis affecting West Maui and its impact on the tourism and hospitality sector, a cornerstone of the local economy.
The water supply issues are further complicated by a lawsuit filed against Maui Land & Pineapple (MLP), which previously owned the golf courses and still has contracts to provide non-potable irrigation water. This lawsuit, as detailed in Maui Now's report, alleges mismanagement of water resources and failure to maintain the Honokōhau Ditch, a critical component of the island's water system. The dispute has led to restrictions on water usage, exacerbating the challenges faced by the golf course and other businesses dependent on a reliable water supply.
The potential acquisition of MLP's water assets by the County marks an effort to address the crisis directly. This move suggests a proactive approach to secure water resources for the community. As Hawaii News Now noted, this also could be due to MLP's decisions to consider selling or leasing its West Maui water assets. This decision might create opportunities for local entrepreneurs and investors to participate in managing the water infrastructure.
The situation highlights the need for sustainable water management practices and the development of resilience strategies amid the ongoing drought. Professionals in Hawaii's business sector face critical decisions on how to navigate this challenging time. The impact of the drought on the golf course and tourism industry also underscore the broader need for water conservation methods and the importance of public-private partnerships.
