Hawaii Agency Approves $4.9 Million Acquisition of Wahiawā Dam
The Hawaiʻi Agribusiness Development Corp. (ADC) has unanimously approved a $4.9 million purchase of land to acquire the 120-year-old Wahiawā dam and spillway from Sustainable Hawaiʻi LLC and Dole Food Co. This decision marks a critical step in the state’s effort to take control of the hazardous irrigation system before a June 30 deadline. The dam, which holds the highest federal hazard rating, recently triggered evacuations during severe storms, highlighting urgent safety concerns after years of neglected maintenance by Dole. While the acquisition cost is fixed, subsequent repairs and environmental remediation for lead and fuel contamination are projected to cost tens of millions, with Governor Josh Green requesting an additional $43 million. Despite these costs, officials argue the takeover is essential for public safety. Dole consultants suggest the restored system could become self-sustaining by generating revenue through expanded agricultural irrigation and potential hydropower, serving up to 17,000 acres. The ADC board expressed concern over future management responsibilities and staffing levels as they assume liability for the infrastructure and surrounding reservoirs.
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Hawaii Agency Approves $4.9 Million Acquisition of Wahiawā Dam
The Hawaiʻi Agribusiness Development Corp. (ADC) has unanimously approved a $4.9 million purchase of land to acquire the 120-year-old Wahiawā dam and spillway from Sustainable Hawaiʻi LLC and Dole Food Co. This decision marks a critical step in the state’s effort to take control of the hazardous irrigation system before a June 30 deadline. The dam, which holds the highest federal hazard rating, recently triggered evacuations during severe storms, highlighting urgent safety concerns after years of neglected maintenance by Dole. While the acquisition cost is fixed, subsequent repairs and environmental remediation for lead and fuel contamination are projected to cost tens of millions, with Governor Josh Green requesting an additional $43 million. Despite these costs, officials argue the takeover is essential for public safety. Dole consultants suggest the restored system could become self-sustaining by generating revenue through expanded agricultural irrigation and potential hydropower, serving up to 17,000 acres. The ADC board expressed concern over future management responsibilities and staffing levels as they assume liability for the infrastructure and surrounding reservoirs.
The Independent World