Bill > HB1495

This bill establishes a Keauhou aquifer system monitoring pilot project to be managed by the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) and the Commission on Water Resource Management. The project will involve installing two monitoring wells in the Keauhou aquifer system, which is a groundwater resource, and conducting comprehensive monitoring activities. These activities include collecting data from the wells, tracking groundwater levels, conducting water salinity tests, monitoring the environmental impacts of groundwater pumping on coastal ecosystems and traditional practices, initiating public information meetings, and performing community outreach. The DLNR is required to submit detailed reports to the Legislature every six months, covering groundwater levels and water salinity analysis. The bill appropriates funds from the state's general revenues for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to support both the monitoring project and the installation of the two monitoring wells. Upon completion of the pilot project, the DLNR will assess whether to continue, expand, or end the monitoring efforts. The bill is designed to improve understanding and management of the Keauhou aquifer system's groundwater resources.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1495&year=2025