The County’s Maui Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) will begin a Wildfire Risk Reduction Project Monday, Nov. 9, 2026, to clear hazardous vegetation and flammable debris from approximately 115 acres of County-owned land at Kapūʻali, also known as “Cut Mountain,” in Launiupoko.

Located near the intersection of Honoapiʻilani Highway and Lahaina Bypass, the property has had 12 fires between February 2024 and September 2026. The project is expected to be completed by early next year and will help protect nearby communities, property and critical infrastructure by creating defensible space.

“The recent Olowalu fire, fueled by hurricane-force winds, underscores the continued need for proactive wildfire risk reduction in West Maui,” MEMA Administrator Amos Lonokailua-Hewett said. “Heavy rain this year has spurred vegetation growth, increasing wildfire fuel. This project is a priority because of its proximity to residential areas, a beach park, a telecommunications tower and the Lahaina Bypass.”

The project will involve:

• Multiple County departments, nonprofits and County contractors
• Hand crews and heavy equipment to clear brush and mulch vegetation
• Removal of invasive grasses, haole koa and kiawe trees
• Removal and disposal of abandoned vehicles, car batteries, gas tanks, tires and other debris

The project will be completed in three phases, with the first phase beginning Monday. No individuals residing in the area will be displaced during this initial phase. As planning progresses for phases two and three, the County will continue working closely with community partners to conduct outreach, assess individual needs and connect those who may be impacted with available resources and housing opportunities. Ongoing outreach includes providing essential needs such as food and water, access to medical and behavioral health care, and case management services.

The County Department of ʻŌiwi Resources is helping to provide guidance to ensure that the work minimizes impacts to culturally sensitive areas. Hand-removal methods will be used when necessary.

Vegetation mulching is funded through a grant agreement between MEMA and nonprofit Maui Nui Resiliency Hui, with additional assistance from Hui Nehu and Hawai‘i Community Foundation. Debris removal is being coordinated with the County Department of Environmental Management through its grant agreement with nonprofit Mālama Maui Nui.

For more information about MEMA’s wildfire risk reduction efforts, visit www.mauicounty.gov/MEMA or call (808) 270-7285.