Many communities in Hawaii are at high risk of wildfire due to unmitigated fuels, limited community engagement, insufficient water and firefighting resources, and under-addressed pre- and post-fire planning and preparedness. 

In line with its mission to protect communities and natural resources from wildfire through planning, mitigation, and education, HWMO has conducted hazard assessments for every community in the state.  These assessments, coupled with the overall Communities At Risk From Wildfire Map update, will enable a more thorough understanding of wildfire hazards that can be addressed by communities, decision-makers, fire responders, and natural resource managers.

Communities at Risk Assessment map for Kauaʻi.

HWMO, along with dedicated partners, conducted a comprehensive hazard assessment across Kauai County, utilizing expert-driven site inspections and fire responder input to evaluate 36 criteria per area, guiding future fire management strategies.

Wildfire's escalating threat in Hawaii necessitates landscape-level vegetation management strategies, as evidenced by HWMO's collaborative initiatives and rapid mapping assessments to mitigate hazards and enhance community resilience.

HWMO leads the 2020 Maui CWPP, which is vital for federal funding and protects Maui's safety, health, and ecosystems from wildfires.