Development of Ground Water in Hawaii

The experience gained by sugar plantations, local government water agencies, the Army and the Navy, during their development of the ground water resources of Hawaii and their operation of various types of wells and tunnels in basaltic lava aquifers has added greatly to understanding of the Ghyben-Herzberg lens of infiltrated rain water as found in many areas contiguous to oceans, but particularly in many islands of the Pacific. Continuous research is perfecting knowledge of the behavior of the interface between fresh water and sea water and thus important improvement is being made in water development design and operating techniques, all toward the goal of optimum use of Hawaii’s ground water resources consistent with intensive considerations of conservation and water quality. The development of high-level bodies of water by horizontal tunnels piercing water restraining volcanic dikes is included.