CHANNEL MODIFICATIONS OF HAWAIIAN STREAMS In their 1978 report,
Timbol and Maciolek identified channel modification as a
significant factor contributing to the degradation of stream
biological quality in the Hawaiian Islands Six types of channel
modifications were distinguished. Timbol and Maciolek wrote,
"Continued channel modification in Hawaii is certain, as
evidenced by current channelization proposals for Kohoma and Iao
streams on Maui and Makaha stream on Oahu. Presently on Oahu, a
dam is being constructed across Kamooalii tributary of Kaneohe
Stream. Environmental commentary is difficult because of the
lack of definitive information on the effects of channelization
either on total stream ecology or on individual native species.
Past commentaries have been based on generalized information
(mainland U.S. and limited ecological data on Hawaiian streams)
and a few specific observations on local channelization effects.
Concrete-lined flat-bottomed channels obviously provide no
habitat for native fishes or c