A recent 6.0-magnitude earthquake has wreaked havoc on the water supply systems in Kona, Hawaii, leaving numerous residents and farmers grappling for essential resources. The quake, which struck just ten days ago, has not only damaged homes but has also obliterated crucial rainwater catchment tanks, critical for the survival of many in this agricultural community.
The Aftermath of the Quake
Nestled among the lush, volcanic slopes of Hawaii’s Big Island, Kona is renowned for its premium coffee, thriving on its unique climate and afternoon rains. However, many local farmers, like 80-year-old Roy Santana, find themselves without access to a reliable water source. Santana’s water catchment tank, a lifeline for his coffee and macadamia nut farm, was left in ruins after the earthquake. “Things just started falling off shelves and crumbling,” he recounted, highlighting the immediate chaos that ensued.
For over 60,000 residents across the Hawaiian islands, rainwater catchment systems are crucial for everyday needs, as many areas lack comprehensive county water infrastructure. The earthquake’s impact on these systems has created an urgent crisis, with farmers now scrambling to find alternative sources of water.
Community Efforts to Adapt
In the wake of the disaster, families like the Santanas have resorted to filling five-gallon jugs at public spigots to meet their immediate water needs. With no county water supply to rely on, they have even engineered makeshift rainwater collection systems from their home’s awnings. As KayLynne Santana noted, “We’ve learned to make do with what we have,” demonstrating the resilience and resourcefulness of those affected.
Local businesses that specialise in rainwater catchment systems are inundated with requests for repairs and replacements. Corey Yeaton, owner of Pacific Blue Catchment, reported receiving around 200 calls for assistance. With his small team overwhelmed, Yeaton is bringing in workers from Oahu to help address the urgent needs of the community.
The Broader Impact on Agriculture
Kona’s agricultural landscape has already been significantly affected by earlier storms this spring, which left farmers struggling to recover from extensive flooding. Farmers like Colehour and Melanie Bondera of Kanalani Ohana Farms are now facing the dual challenge of repairing their damaged properties while also dealing with the recent earthquake’s repercussions.
Melanie Bondera expressed hopes for state or federal aid, noting that many families are already under financial strain. “No one is making bank off Kona coffee,” she emphasised, highlighting the precarious nature of farming in the region. The Bonderas discovered their water tank had burst during the quake, leaking thousands of gallons of precious water—a devastating blow to their operations.
Emergency Response and Community Solidarity
While local authorities are working to address the crisis, including deploying a 2,000-gallon tanker to supply water to affected areas, the recovery process is slow. Many residents lack the means to transport water from public spigots, with some elderly neighbours unable to carry water at all. Community efforts are crucial, as residents come together to support each other in the face of adversity.
Despite the overwhelming challenges, Colehour Bondera set up his usual farmer’s market stand, driven by the need for income and a sense of normalcy. “We needed to get back to our routine,” he stated, showcasing the spirit of resilience that characterises the Kona community.
Why it Matters
The devastation caused by the earthquake in Kona is not merely a local issue; it underscores the fragility of agricultural systems reliant on natural water resources. As communities rally together to rebuild, the events serve as a stark reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of increasingly frequent natural disasters. As farmers and families strive to recover, their stories highlight the profound interconnectedness of community resilience and the ongoing challenges posed by climate change and infrastructure vulnerability.
