The Leialiʻi community in Lahaina is working to build resilience against wildfires after a close call last year. On August 8, 2023, residents like Kai Pelayo had to evacuate due to a nearby wildfire. To prepare for future threats, Pelayo led a hazard assessment last Friday, with the Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization, the state Division of Forestry and Wildlife, and community volunteers, according to the Office of the Governor website.
The assessment is the first step toward becoming a recognized Firewise community. Participants explored the neighborhood to identify overgrown vegetation and fire hazards that could hinder firefighting. Archie Kalepa, a commissioner with Hawaiian Homes Maui and a local resident, highlighted the need for proactive measures in response to Maui's changing climate. Drawing from his traditional knowledge as a ninth-generation resident, he stated, "Moving forward we need to actively engage our communities, work collaboratively with the department, and find ways that ensure our homes are here for generations to come," a statement obtained by the Office of the Governor.
Since the Firewise program started in 2015, the number of recognized Firewise communities has grown from 15 to 25, with 16 more applications pending. Nani Barretto, HWMO co-executive director, emphasized that firefighting should be the last line of defense against wildfires, according to the Office of the Governor report.
Although the Villages of Leialiʻi lost only two of its 104 residential lots in the wildfire, the psychological impact remains. Residents expressed that preparedness is essential, with Pelayo urging other communities to take action before disaster hits, saying, "Don’t wait for a fire, do something now," as reported by the Office of the Governor. The mission to fortify all Department of Hawaiian Home Lands homesteads against the threat of wildfires continues, to have every homestead recognized as a Firewise community.
