Maui
Watershed Hydrology
The Maui Watershed (HUC 20020000) covers a land area of approximately 364 square miles and is characterized by a complex hydrology system that is heavily influenced by the island's unique geography and topography. The region features a diverse array of ecosystems and habitats, including lowland rainforest, high-altitude shrublands, and alpine grasslands. The region receives an average of 170 inches of rainfall annually, with the majority of the precipitation occurring during the winter months. The area is also home to several important water sources, including the Wailoa River and the Kahului Aquifer. In recent years, the region has experienced a decline in snowpack levels, which has had a significant impact on surface water availability and reservoir constituents. This, coupled with increasing global temperatures, has led to a rise in extreme weather events, including more frequent droughts and heavy rainfall events. Despite these challenges, conservation efforts are underway to protect and preserve the Maui Watershed's unique ecosystems and water resources.