An Appraisal of Stormwater Reclamation and Reuse in Hawaii

Groundwater is the principal source of potable water for the island of Oahu, home to more than 80 percent of Hawaii's population. Demand for potable water increases and groundwater recharge decreases as growth and development occur. The decrease in groundwater recharge is due to the expansion of impervious surface area associated with residential and commercial developments. An appraisal of stormwater reclamation and reuse opportunities was conducted on Oahu to determine if stormwater can augment potable water supplies for irrigation and for possible non-potable aquifer recharge. The appraisal identified potential institutional barriers to this concept including regulations, funding, and public issues. Approaches to overcome these barriers were identified in the development of stormwater reclamation and reuse opportunities.