NFWF Coral Reef Conservation Fund: Maui Nui

Reducing Pollution to Protect Coral Reefs in Lana’i

Lana'i Aerial view of a green mountainside leading to water

Project Summary

Maui Nui, meaning Greater Maui, encompasses Haleakalā, West Maui, Kaho'olawe, Lāna'i, East Moloka'i, West Moloka'i, and Penguin Bank. We are working with partners at three priority sites in Maui Nui: Honokōwai, Kihei, and Lana’i to address specific local threats to coral reefs. Coral reefs and near shore water quality are negatively impacted by two primary sources of land-based pollution: 1) sediment coming from the adjacent mountains due to eroding agricultural lands; and 2) nutrients coming from municipal wastewater injection wells.

Together, we will design and implement practices that reduce impacts on coral reefs from land based sources of wastewater and sediment pollution. Working with management and local partners we are designing best practices, piloting new approaches, and planning for future reef resilience.

In Lana’i, destabilized sediment erosion is the biggest threat to reef resilience.

Problem
Coral reefs are damaged by sediment, particularly fine-grain sediments, eroding from the land. In Lana’i, substantial sediment erosion is clouding coastal waters and reducing the resilience and health of the coral reef.
Solution
In Lana’i, stabilizing eroding soils is key to protecting the reefs. Successful restoration includes improving the health of soil to supporting native vegetation, as well as planting vegetative sediment traps to hold soils in place.

Implementation
Implementation is in three stages: 1) Participate in conversations lead by local organizations including Pulama Lana’i 2) Collaborate with Kuahiwi-a-Kai grantees to study and inform erosion control and revegetation restoration work and 3) Work with existing ungulate management efforts.
Outcomes
Stabilizing eroding sediments protects coral reefs and builds reef resilience. Reducing these stressors help the environment recover, thrive, and be resilient.

Funders and Partners National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), Kuahiwi-a-Kai: Lāna'i Watershed Conservation program grantees, Pulama Lana’i scientists