Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Hawai‘i Acquires Wahiawa Reservoir for $20M Safety Upgrades

3/27/2026

50 11 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Hawai‘i state government plans to acquire the Wahiawa reservoir and dam to improve safety.
Taxpayers will fund over $20 million in repairs, including a labyrinth weir to improve water flow management.
Dole Food Company, a partial owner, seeks up to 60% of the reservoir’s water for farming.
Political leaders back the acquisition, citing its importance for local agriculture.
Dole Food Company claimed the dam is safe, contradicting state warnings.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Hawai‘i state government plans to acquire the Wahiawa reservoir and dam to improve safety.
Taxpayers will fund over $20 million in repairs, including a labyrinth weir to improve water flow management.
Dole Food Company, a partial owner, seeks up to 60% of the reservoir’s water for farming.
Political leaders back the acquisition, citing its importance for local agriculture.
Dole Food Company claimed the dam is safe, contradicting state warnings.