Residents in parts of Maui need not worry about the quality of their drinking water, despite recent findings of trace selenium levels, according to officials from the County of Maui Department of Water Supply. The water agency reported that samples taken on Sept. 29 and Oct. 23, 2025, showed selenium concentrations ranging between 6 and 7.4 micrograms per liter, values notably below the Maximum Contaminant Level of 50 micrograms per liter as set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Hawai‘i Department of Health. This threshold is the mark deemed safe for long-term consumption.
The detected levels of selenium, a mineral that occurs naturally in the environment, are considered minimal and not a cause for health concerns. “The levels of selenium detected are very small and far below safety limits,” John Stufflebeam, the DWS Director, emphasized in a statement obtained by the County of Maui's official press release. They have assured the public that the water is safe and that they will keep monitoring the situation.
Selenium can find its way into the water supply through natural soil erosion as well as through human activities like irrigated farming. It is required by law for the DWS to notify the DOH upon initial detection of any trace of selenium, followed by the DOH's obligation to inform the public post assessment. The detection itself doesn't necessarily pose an immediate risk, but these protocols are in place to ensure transparency and safety for the community.
For those seeking more information regarding water quality and the presence of selenium, the DWS has made resources available and can be contacted directly at (808) 270-7550. Their commitment to public health remains steadfast, with continuous tests being conducted to maintain this level of confidence in the water supply that Maui residents depend on daily. Residents and local businesses can rest assured that their water is being watched over with a watchful eye.
