The state departments of Agriculture and Land and Natural Resources are protesting. Windward taro farmers and environmentalists take the opposite view, maintaining that all the water should stay on their side of the Koolaus to replenish streams and restore Kaneohe Bay. This battle has been brewing for months, but is rapidly approaching a climax. The final decision could have major implications for the future of the island. If the price of water sold to Leeward farmers is raised, it could drive some of them out of business.
Cheap water is essential to the survival of agriculture.
The closing of Oahu Sugar Co. has made thousands of acres of agricultural land available for diversified farming, but that could be lost to development if the farmers can't get the water they need. The controversy has always hinged on a compromise between the conflicting demands of the Leeward and Windward side. The commission's plan to leave the way open for future increases in the allocation for the Leeward side seemed reasonable. But the reaction to the draft proposal indicates that the plan leans too heavily in Windward's favor. The governor's concern is well taken.