What You Can Do

1.  Fill out our NEWSLETTER SIGN UP FORM to learn more about past and upcoming meetings or fill out our VOLUNTEER SIGN UP FORM.

2.  Keep the ʻAuwai Clean

Cleaning debris out of the 'auwai is imperative, especially after heavy winds and rainstorms.  Foliage builds up and blocks the flow of water.  

Intentionally throwing anything into the 'auwai creates problems for residents downstream and the surrounding ecosystem.  Pollutants, such as detergents, fertilizer, pesticides, building materials and runoffs flowing into the system jeopardize the plants and animals which depend on the 'auwai. 

3. Become Knowledgeable About Your ʻAuwai

Familiarize yourself with the 'auwai from your location to its source. 

Locate areas where the 'auwai is likely to become blocked or might leak.  Make sure water is not being permanently diverted out of the system.  If someone is diverting water, neighbors downstream will be affected.  Using the water for a koi pond or lō'i is permissible providing the flow of water is not impeded and is returned back to the 'auwai.

Respect your neighbors’ privacy and do not enter private property without permission.

4. Support the Hui Mālama ʻAuwai O Nuʻuanu Group
   We invite you to attend the monthly Hui Mālama 'Auwai O Nu'uanu meetings.  Members will be glad to advise you or offer suggestions on any 'auwai concerns you may have.  They can even assist you if the cleanup or repairs are more than you are able to handle.  Even if you do not have an ʻauwai on your property, you are welcome to join the discussion.  Ultimately, we all have the same goal for the 'auwai and that is to care for this indigenous waterway.

5. Repair the ʻAuwai Banks or Report a Repair.

Flowing water erodes the banks of the 'auwai. Repair to the banks is ongoing. Crayfish make tunnels which can start leaks on the downhill side of a ditch.  Pipes or culverts deteriorate and concrete patches often leak at the joints.

Although concrete has been and still is a popular 'auwai patch, it is often the cause for 'auwai leaks.  The early Hawaiian method of using rocks and dirt for soil banks is the best solution.

If you would like assistance with repairing your 'auwai, you can email us directly NuuanuAuwai@gmail.com or fill out our Report a Repair form.