Effects of Rain and Drought
Community Contributed
By Glenn I. Teves, County Extension Agent, UH CTAHR
We’ve been in a drought for several years now. The dry winter into early spring was worrisome until last week’s storm brought welcome relief. But rains don’t always alleviate a dropping reservoir unless it arrives in moderate, not heavy amounts, and drops into Waikolu Valley. This storm resulted in heavy runoff and washed precious soil into the ocean. The water will be muddy until the dirt settles on the bottom and that’s not good. The drought had already left its mark.
Everything is connected. A less-than-average flow of artesian water percolating along the coast can adversely affect the fisheries habitat, resulting in a lower than average hatching of fingerlings or pua.…