Overview
WAILUKU KAHULUI WWTF serves approximately 37,500 residents in Kahului, Hawaii. The plant discharges treated wastewater into the Pacific Ocean via nearshore waters, supporting Maui's coastal environment.
WAILUKU KAHULUI WWTF is a municipal wastewater treatment facility located in Kahului, on the island of Maui, Hawaii. It serves a population of about 37,500 people, making it a medium-sized agglomeration for the region. The plant is situated near the coast and plays a key role in managing wastewater from the Kahului and Wailuku areas. As a U.S. facility, the plant operates under the Clean Water Act and is subject to National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits issued by the Hawaii Department of Health. For a plant of this scale, secondary treatment is typically required, with additional nutrient removal expected in sensitive coastal zones like Hawaii to protect coral reefs and marine life. The treated effluent is discharged into nearshore waters of the Pacific Ocean, specifically into the waters off Kahului. This area supports diverse marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and fish habitats. The plant's operations are critical for maintaining water quality in Maui's coastal environment, which is vital for tourism, recreation, and native species.
Environmental context
The plant discharges into the Pacific Ocean near Kahului, Maui. The nearshore waters are part of a sensitive marine ecosystem that includes coral reefs, seagrass beds, and habitats for sea turtles and monk seals. Effluent management is crucial to prevent nutrient pollution that could lead to algal blooms and degrade reef health. The area also supports migratory fish and is important for local fishing and tourism.
Frequently asked questions
WAILUKU KAHULUI WWTF is located at Amala Place in Kahului, on the island of Maui, Hawaii, United States.
The plant serves approximately 37,492 people in the Kahului and Wailuku areas of Maui.
The plant discharges treated effluent into nearshore waters of the Pacific Ocean off Kahului, Maui.
As a U.S. facility, it operates under the Clean Water Act and is regulated by an NPDES permit issued by the Hawaii Department of Health, which sets limits on pollutants to protect coastal waters.
Plants of this scale in Hawaii typically provide secondary treatment with nutrient removal to protect sensitive coral reef ecosystems, as required by state and federal regulations.
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