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Hawaii Acquires Wahiawa Dam to Ensure Safety and Repairs

3/29/2026

46 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Hawaii's land board voted to acquire Wahiawa Dam from Dole Food Co. to secure state oversight.
The move also aims to fund $20 million in repairs.
Built in 1906, Wahiawa Dam is a 'high hazard' risk that prompted evacuations of 5,500 residents during heavy rains.
Dole Food Co.'s Chief Legal Officer said fines were for missed paperwork deadlines.
A Native Hawaiian consultant supported the state takeover, emphasizing decolonization of the watershed.

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Story summary

Hawaii's land board voted to acquire Wahiawa Dam from Dole Food Co. to secure state oversight.
The move also aims to fund $20 million in repairs.
Built in 1906, Wahiawa Dam is a 'high hazard' risk that prompted evacuations of 5,500 residents during heavy rains.
Dole Food Co.'s Chief Legal Officer said fines were for missed paperwork deadlines.
A Native Hawaiian consultant supported the state takeover, emphasizing decolonization of the watershed.