The wildfires that ravaged Maui Hawaii, in August 2023 became the deadliest in the United States in more than a century. While the destruction of homes and tourism garnered significant attention, the fires also wreaked havoc on the island’s agriculture, with damages that extended far beyond the flames themselves.
In some areas, fires smoldered underground for weeks, destroying water systems essential for livestock and crops. Even after the fires were extinguished, water contamination persisted, presenting challenges that scientists are only beginning to understand.
As an environmental engineer, I work with communities impacted by wildfires and other disasters. I also led a team of university and public works professionals to assist in Maui’s response to these devastating fires.
In a recent study, my team collaborated with the Hawaii Department of Agriculture to assess the damage to water systems, including pipes, wells, and pumps vital to agriculture. This study was the first of its kind to examine wildfire damage to agricultural water infrastructure.
Contaminated Water Infrastructure Hidden Risk
Wildfires often knock out power, disabling the water pumps that farmers and ranchers rely on. They can also damage pipes, releasing toxic chemicals that have long-lasting effects.
Studies, including our own, have shown that fire-damaged water sources, pipes, and tanks can become unsafe to use. For instance, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like benzene, a known carcinogen, have been found at levels above hazardous waste limits in fire-affected areas. Exposure to this water can cause immediate harm.
When water pumps fail or components are destroyed, municipal water systems lose pressure, allowing VOCs to enter from heated or burning plastics, structures, and vegetation. These chemicals can penetrate plastic water lines, gaskets, and tanks, making the water unsafe for weeks or even months after the initial contamination. Damaged components often need to be replaced.
In Maui, however, there was no immediate guidance on how farmers and ranchers should inspect and test their water systems following the fires.
Maui’s farms and ranches heavily relied on plastic water system components. For instance, one ranch lost over nine miles of plastic water pipe, much of which was above ground and alongside fencing that also burned.
Plastic irrigation systems were destroyed, and numerous components melted, leaked, or lacked water. Power outages further exacerbated the problem by preventing water pumps from keeping the pipes full.
While wells and well casings were not contaminated due to their distance from combustible materials and efforts by firefighters and property staff, debris and smoke particles did enter animal troughs and waterers. These items had to be drained and cleaned for the safety of the animals. Water systems were repeatedly flushed with clean water, and VOC testing did not reveal lingering contamination.
Unanswered Questions and Potential Solutions
There are still many unanswered questions regarding the extent of VOC contamination in agricultural water systems, its effects on animals and crops, and the long-term impacts on food safety. These issues will require further research and collaboration with experts in veterinary medicine and crop science.
One clear takeaway is the need for better guidance to prevent wildfire-induced water pollution. Practical steps include establishing defensible space by keeping equipment 30 feet away from combustible materials and burying plastic components three feet underground. Damaged water system components should be isolated, refilled, and extensively flushed to remove potential contaminants. Water delivery devices should be cleaned, and chemical testing should be conducted when contamination is a concern.
A 2024 survey of California farmers highlighted the need for generators, water pumps, and storage tanks during wildfires. These resources would help maintain water system pressure and prevent contamination.
Support for Farmers and Ranchers
State and federal agriculture departments, along with insurance companies, can provide financial assistance to reduce wildfire risks. Universities can offer technical assistance to help farmers and ranchers mitigate the impacts of wildfires and expedite recovery efforts.
By implementing these lessons and supporting farmers and ranchers, we can strengthen agricultural resilience and safeguard the health and economy of affected communities.
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