18 Coconut Trees Removed from Baldwin Beach Park due to Coastal Erosion and Saltwater Intrusion
HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - In a recent effort to combat coastal erosion and saltwater intrusion, crews have removed 18 coconut trees from Baldwin Beach Park. According to Maui County officials, the erosion and saltwater have led to the gradual decline and death of these trees, which were among 70 planted at the park. The affected trees were located closest to the shoreline, an area that has been particularly vulnerable to the negative impacts of climate change and salinization.
Timothy Griffith, a tree expert and county arborist, explained that while coconut trees can tolerate saltwater, they are still susceptible to its harmful effects. He noted that 50 coconut trees were spared from removal because they were farther inland and protected from the shoreline impacts. Griffith emphasized that if the trees had died due to over-trimming, similar losses would be observed across the island, but he confirmed that county trees are pruned twice a year in accordance with industry standards.
The removal of the trees comes after the Baldwin Beach pavilion was also damaged by saltwater intrusion, leading to its removal. Patrick McCall, director of the Maui County Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), stated that the department plans to address the health of future trees. The DPR's Vulnerability and Adaptation Study in 2022 revealed that sea-level rise has caused the shoreline to recede about a quarter mile over the last century.
Looking ahead, the Baldwin Beach Park Master Plan includes relocating the pavilion and new trees significantly closer to Hana Highway. The department also aims to restore nearby dunes to protect the remaining trees in the park. This proactive approach highlights the county's commitment to preserving the park's natural beauty and addressing the challenges posed by coastal erosion and climate change.
