Information Guides
Below are links to other agencies and organizations that provide useful information on the protection and conservation of our surface water resources. Please be aware of the disclaimers and privacy policies of each respective site. Note that by clicking on each link below, a new browser window will be opened.
Stream Maintenance
Trash and other debris in a stream can block stream flow, which obstructs the migration of native stream animals and increases the risk of flooding to surrounding areas. Removing these blockages is an important part of keeping the stream clean and healthy. Who's responsiblity is it to keep the stream clean? Who enforces stream maintenance? What should I do when I witness illegal dumping into the stream? For answers to these questions, explore the links below.
CWRM's Stream Maintenance Information Guide
Clean Stream Program, Department of Facility Maintenance
Brochure, Clean Stream Program
Flooding
Floods usually occur following prolonged or heavy rainfall associated with tropical storms or hurricanes. The magnitude of the flood depends on slope, soil conditions, and ground cover. In Hawaii, the most common type of flood is flash flooding. Flash floods are powerful and dangerous in that they can develop quickly (within a few hours after a rainfall event) and carry rocks, mud, and all the debris in their path down to the coast. Some floods can even trigger massive landslides, causing property damage and fatality. Since flash floods usually occur along small streams, areas adjacent to streams have higher flood risk. For more information on flood preparedness, explore the links below.
CWRM's Flood Preparedness Information Guide
Mother Nature Hawaii
National Flood Insurance Program, FEMA
FEMA Floodsmart
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that is passed from animals to humans. Outbreaks of the disease are usually caused by exposure to water contaminated with the urine of infected animals. In Hawaii, rodents, rats, mongeese, pigs, and cattles are among the many domestic and wild animals that can transmit the disease. One of the common ways of contracting leptospirosis is swimming in fresh water ponds or streams. The Hawaii State Department of Health is continually urging people to avoid going in fresh water streams with open wounds. For more information on leptospirosis and prevention measures, explore the links below.
Fact Sheet, Hawaii State Department of Health
Brochure, Hawaii State Department of Health
Fact Sheet, Center for Disease Control and Prevention
