Storm drain stenciling raises awareness that Maui’s storm drains empty directly into the ocean, bringing with them all the pollutants that accumulate on land and run off during storm events or as a result of irrigation practices.

HONOKOWAI – Partners representing the West Maui Ridge to Reef Initiative will host a volunteer “guerilla” storm drain stenciling event in Honokowai on Friday, March 2.

The “guerilla” concept simply means the team will be seeking permission from private property owners along Lower Honopiilani Road on the spot, in addition to marking the drains along the roadway managed by the county for which permissions have already been obtained. The team will seek to mark as many drains as possible in Honokowai between 9 a.m. and noon. Property managers, owners and residents are invited to join in as the teams visit their locations.

Storm drain stenciling is a great way of raising awareness that Maui’s storm drains empty directly to the ocean, bringing with them all the pollutants that accumulate on land and run off during storm events or as a result of irrigation practices.

These pollutants range from oil leaking from poorly maintained vehicles, excess fertilizer from landscaping activities, sediments loosened due to erosion and other forms of land-based pollutants carrying substances that ultimately harm Maui’s nearshore reef ecosystem.

The team will meet at 9 a.m. in the Times Supermarket parking lot at 3350 Lower Honoapiilani Road.

Storm drain stenciling materials will be provided. Participants should bring water and sun protection.

The event is open to volunteers ages 12 and up; all youth must be accompanied by an adult.

To sign up, ask any questions about the event or coordinate to have a specific drain marked, contact Liz Foote at (808) 283-1631 or WestMauiKumuwai@gmail.com.

More on this and other events can be found on the West Maui Kumuwai Facebook page at www.facebook.com/WestMauiKumuwai. To learn more about stormwater management on Maui, visit www.mauicounty.gov/2129/Storm-Water-Management-Program.

This effort is supported by the County of Maui Department of Public Works, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources and Maui Ocean Center.