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Maui County officials said a “stage 1” water shortage declaration for Upcountry Maui will take effect next week due to high water use and dry conditions.
Starting July 2, the Department of Water Supply is prohibiting Upcountry consumers from using water for irrigation, lawns, washing vehicles or other activities deemed nonessential.
The department’s director declares a water shortage if he or she determines that anticipated water demand in an area is projected to exceed available water supply by 1% to 15%.
Failure to comply with restrictions, officials said, may result in penalties, including a $500 fine for each violation and removal of a water meter for subsequent violations.
The department’s water reservoir in Olinda is well below 50% capacity, officials said, and the supply at Wailoa Ditch, which ultimately supplements Upcountry water sources, is variable.
The Upcountry Maui water service area includes Makawao, Upper and Lower Kula, Haiku, Pukalani, Kokomo, Kaupakalua, Ulumalu, Ulupalakua and Kanaio.
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