Can Kapalua Golf Course Survive 7 Days Without Irrigation Amid Escalating Water Restrictions?

The Plantation Course at Kapalua, which traditionally hosts the PGA Tour's season opener, is facing a significant challenge due to a severe lack of irrigation water. This situation arises from a water dispute with Maui Land & Pineapple, affecting the course's preparation for the upcoming January tournament.

Last updated: 05 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The Plantation Course has been without irrigation for over a week, threatening its readiness for the PGA Tour season opener.
• A dispute over the Honokohau Stream and Ditch System is at the heart of the water supply issue.
• The course's management has been forced to halt maintenance plans due to water restrictions.
• The PGA Tour has been hosted at Kapalua since 1982, contributing significantly to the local economy.
• Future water supply uncertainties may jeopardise the tournament scheduled for January.

The Background of the Water Dispute

The current irrigation crisis stems from a complex and longstanding dispute between Kapalua Golf Resort and Maui Land & Pineapple (MLP). The issue revolves around the 11-mile Honokohau Stream and Ditch System, which is crucial for delivering irrigation water to the Kapalua area, particularly for the Plantation Course. This system has been a vital resource for the course for many years, and its failure to deliver adequate water has raised alarms.

On 2 September, Kapalua Golf Resort announced a temporary closure of the course for two months to undertake necessary maintenance and irrigation practices. These included verticut mowing to improve turf health and applying slow-release fertilisers. However, the situation worsened when MLP escalated restrictions from Tier 2 to Tier 4, effectively cutting off all irrigation water.

Impact on the Plantation Course

The ongoing water restrictions have had severe repercussions for the Plantation Course. With no irrigation since 29 August, the course's turf is at significant risk. Alex Nakajima, the general manager of Kapalua Golf and Tennis, stated, “We have all the plans to act... But without water, we can’t do anything. It’s tough.” This sentiment reflects the urgent need for a resolution to the water supply crisis.

The local golf community has expressed concerns about the implications of a prolonged lack of irrigation. As Nakajima pointed out, the longer the course remains without water, the more challenging it will be to prepare for the PGA Tour season opener, which is scheduled for 5-11 January 2024. The tournament not only serves as a significant event for golf enthusiasts but also plays an essential role in driving the local economy, contributing an estimated £50 million to the area.

Legal Actions and Responses

In response to the water supply issues, Tadashi Yanai, the owner of Kapalua and founder of the Uniqlo brand, alongside local homeowners and Hua Momona Farms, filed a lawsuit against MLP on 18 August. The lawsuit alleges that MLP has failed to maintain the essential water delivery system, which has exacerbated the current crisis.

In its defence, MLP has claimed that it has made repairs and improvements to the ditch system as mandated by the Commission on Water Resource Management. The company insists that its actions align with existing agreements with the golf courses, suggesting that the situation may be more complex than it initially appears.

The Importance of the PGA Tour at Kapalua

The PGA Tour's presence at Kapalua dates back to 1982, when it was first included as part of the unofficial season. In 1999, it became the official season opener, and since then, it has gained significant prestige within the golfing community. The tournament, sponsored by Sentry Insurance, has become a hallmark event, attracting top golfers and generating substantial financial benefits for the local economy.

With the tournament looming, the ongoing water crisis presents a critical challenge for Kapalua. Officials have expressed apprehension about the consequences of another Tier 4 shutdown, indicating that it could be “devastating to turfgrass already depleted from months without irrigation.” The statement underscores the precarious situation the course finds itself in, where the potential for recovery is diminishing rapidly.

What’s Next for Kapalua Golf Resort?

As the dispute continues, the future of the Plantation Course and its readiness for the PGA Tour season opener hangs in the balance. The uncertainty surrounding water supply raises critical questions: How long can the course survive without adequate irrigation? What steps can be taken to resolve the ongoing crisis? And most importantly, will the PGA Tour be able to proceed as scheduled?

While plans for maintenance and recovery are in place, the inability to execute them without water presents a daunting hurdle. Nakajima has noted that the lack of irrigation is not just a temporary inconvenience but a significant threat to the course's viability in the lead-up to one of its most important annual events.

Conclusion

The current situation at the Plantation Course serves as a reminder of the intricate relationship between natural resources, sports, and local economies. The stakes are high, and the outcome of this water dispute will have lasting implications not just for the golf course but for the entire community reliant on the tournament's success. As the PGA Tour season opener approaches, all eyes will be on Kapalua to see how this critical issue unfolds. Will the course be ready in time to welcome top golfers from around the world, or will the lack of water spell disaster for this iconic venue?

FAQs

Why is the Plantation Course at Kapalua facing irrigation issues?

The Plantation Course is facing irrigation issues due to a dispute with Maui Land & Pineapple over the maintenance of the Honokohau Stream and Ditch System, which supplies water for irrigation. Recent restrictions have cut off water supply entirely.

When is the PGA Tour season opener at Kapalua scheduled?

The PGA Tour season opener at Kapalua is scheduled to take place from 5 to 11 January 2024.

What impact does the PGA Tour have on the local economy?

The PGA Tour event at Kapalua contributes approximately £50 million to the local economy, making it a significant financial benefit for the area.

What maintenance plans were halted due to the water restrictions?

Maintenance plans included verticut mowing to improve turf health and the application of slow-release fertilisers, both essential for preparing the course for the tournament.

What legal actions have been taken regarding the water dispute?

Tadashi Yanai, the owner of Kapalua, along with local homeowners, filed a lawsuit against Maui Land & Pineapple, alleging negligence in maintaining the water delivery system, which has led to the current irrigation crisis.

What are the implications of a Tier 4 water restriction for the Plantation Course?

A Tier 4 water restriction means no irrigation is allowed, which can severely damage the turf and hinder preparations for the PGA Tour event, impacting both the course's health and its readiness for play.