Overview: In August 2023, the Olinda Fire burned approximately 1400 acres of Maui upcountry southeast of Pukalani on Haleakala Volcano. The burn extended through rangeland, heavily wooded gulches, and a few isolated residences from above the Haleakala Highway (Route 377) to midway between Kula Highway (Route 37) and the Haleakala Highway. The fire was primarily fueled by trees on the banks of the gulches, which are ephemeral streams, and was carried to the NW by strong winds potentially stemming from the passage of Hurricane Dora south of Hawaii. Two houses burned in this fire.

Resource Concerns:  Water-induced erosion is a primary resource concern resulting from the Olinda Fire. If left unaddressed, erosion is expected to cause human health and safety concerns downslope due to sediment laden storm runoff, damage sensitive aquatic ecosystems, degrade public use areas, undermine private roads, and impede traffic.

Recommended Practices:

  • NRCS recommends the application of wood chip mulch (3” thickness) along the outer gulch banks in areas where the soil is bare and sloping into the gulch.

  • NRCS recommends the clearing and removal of debris from the streambed within the Kaluapulani Gulch burn area. Woody debris, including dead and dying trees, should be removed from the bed of the stream to prevent mobilization and subsequent plugging of the culvert under Kula Highway.

  • NRCS recommends the installation of a debris basin located upstream of the Kealaloa Avenue low-flow crossing easement. This basin will allow debris and sediment to settle out before becoming a road hazard and will provide additional warning for drivers and maintenance crews.

  • NRCS recommends the installation of Road May Flood warning signs along both approaches to the Kealaloa Ave. low-flow crossing and proposed debris basin.

Please see the Olinda Damage Survey Response Report for more information.

Olinda EWP Project Status:

  • March 4, 2024: Maui Environmental Consulting hired to serve as Project Manager for the Pulehu and Olinda Projects.

  • Next Steps: Execute Landowner Agreements and identify contractors to complete work.

Updated: March 26, 2024