Project Description
The Kaunakakai Harbor Maintenance Project aims to preserve and enhance the functionality of the primary commercial harbor on Moloka’i, Hawaii. Located on the south-central coast of the island, this harbor plays a crucial role in receiving deliveries of food, fuel, and supplies by barge. The project, originally completed in 1934 at a Federal cost of $103,200, consists of a basin measuring 1,500 feet long, 600 feet wide, and 23 feet deep. As part of the ongoing operations and maintenance phase, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is responsible for maintaining the project depths in the entrance channel and turning basin area, ensuring safe navigation for vessels entering, exiting, and maneuvering within the harbor.
Major Challenges
The Dutra Group demonstrated proactive problem-solving in their dredging operations in Maui and Molokai by anticipating and addressing several challenges. They recognized the potential difficulties of remote operations, including logistical issues with personnel, equipment, and supplies. To mitigate these challenges, Dutra conducted multiple pre-project visits to both islands, allowing them to address safety concerns, community issues, and operational logistics well in advance. They also developed a custom underwater barrier system to protect the environment, building a sturdy frame on-site and attaching a flexible curtain to it. This innovative setup helped contain disturbed sediment despite strong winds and rough waters, minimizing the project’s impact on the surrounding marine ecosystem. This foresight and innovative approach enabled Dutra to balance local community concerns with USACE contract requirements while maintaining productivity in the face of weather-related delays and limited resources.
Project Highlights
A key highlight of the project is the successful completion of the most recent maintenance dredging in 2024, which removed approximately 30,000 cubic yards of sediment from the harbor. This critical work has significantly improved the safety and efficiency of vessel operations within the harbor. The project’s long-term maintenance strategy, with previous dredging operations dating back to 1973, demonstrates the ongoing commitment to preserving this vital infrastructure. The collaboration between federal and state agencies, including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Hawaii Department of Transportation Harbors Division, showcases effective partnership in maintaining this essential facility.
Project Scope
The scope of the Kaunakakai Harbor Maintenance Project encompasses regular assessment and maintenance of the harbor’s entrance channel and turning basin. This includes periodic hydrographic surveys to monitor sediment accumulation and determine dredging requirements. The project involves the planning and execution of maintenance dredging operations as needed, with the most recent operation removing 30,000 cubic yards of sediment. The scope also includes the proper disposal of dredged materials in compliance with environmental regulations. Ongoing coordination with local authorities and stakeholders is essential to ensure that maintenance activities align with the operational needs of the harbor and the community it serves. The project’s ultimate goal is to maintain the authorized depths of the harbor, ensuring safe and efficient maritime operations for the island of Moloka’i.
