Honorable Robert Bunda

President of the Senate

Twenty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2005

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committees on Water, Land, and Agriculture and Higher Education, to which was referred H.B. No. 1280, H.D. 1, entitled:

beg leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to fund a comprehensive watershed management pilot project at the Center for Conservation Research and Training (CCRT) of the University of Hawaii to identify, design, and implement flood-control strategies consistent with comprehensive watershed management to control storm water runoff and to appropriate matching funds.

Your Committees received testimony in support of this measure from the CCRT and one individual.

Your Committees find that CCRT is competent to study and address the flood issues outlined in this measure, to develop a comprehensive watershed management plan during Phase I, and to identify and implement the flood management strategies and plans in two of the most flood prone areas in the State during Phase II. The pilot project established by this measure will ensure the development of flood control strategies, demonstrate their effectiveness, enhance ecosystem functions, and protect Hawaii's natural resources.

Your Committees have amended this measure by making technical, nonsubstantive amendments.

As affirmed by the records of votes of the members of your Committees on Water, Land, and Agriculture and Higher Education that are attached to this report, your Committees are in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 1280, H.D. 1, as amended herein, and recommend that it pass Second Reading in the form attached hereto as H.B. No. 1280, H.D. 1, S.D. 1, and be referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.