Press Release
☷US Representatives get updates on Hawaii wildfires debris removal mission status from USACE federal partners
U.S. Army ( By Press Release office)
Apr 04,2024
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Col . Eric Swenson , the Commander of the Hawaii Wildfires Recovery Field Office , gave an update to U . S . Representatives Jill Tokuda and Doug LaMalfa on the progress of debris removal in Lahaina , Hawaii , which was affected by the wildfires on August 8 , 2023 . This visit was part of the American Congressional Exchange program , aimed at fostering better relationships and bipartisanship among Congress members outside of Washington , D . C . Keeaumoku Kapu , a Hawaiian cultural leader , also joined the delegation and explained the significance of the Hauola Rock , a sacred rock near Lahaina Harbor , to the congressional representatives . They toured the areas impacted by the wildfires and were briefed by Kapu on the cultural aspects of the debris removal process . The visit took place on March 25 , 2024 . Eric Swenson and California Rep . Doug LaMalfa had a chat about debris removal operations when they visited Lahaina , Hawaii . This visit was part of a program to improve relationships and cooperation in Congress . Swenson emphasized the need for Congress to provide the necessary resources for a recovery of this scale . He also highlighted the importance of USACE and FEMA helping Maui County convey the severity of the damage and the need to rebuild a stronger community . Swenson stressed that pictures and videos can ' t compare to seeing the damage firsthand . Both representatives , who serve on the Committee on Agriculture , shared their experiences with devastating fire disasters in their districts . LaMalfa shared insights from the 2018 Camp Fire in Paradise , California , and showed interest in soil sampling and cleanup goals . Hawaii Rep . Jill Tokuda also pointed out areas impacted by the wildfires to LaMalfa during the visit . Swenson was impressed by LaMalfa ' s questions and insights , as they highlighted the similarities and differences between the wildfires in Hawaii and California . The RFO commander mentioned that even though there were some differences in how the response efforts were carried out , it was clear that communities at risk need to take precautions to prevent fires . When a large - scale tragedy occurs , the cleanup efforts are extensive and require a strong federal government response with aid and experts from various organizations . Rep . Tokuda has been actively visiting the affected areas since August 8 , 2023 , attending meetings and events related to the wildfires . She regularly checks in on the USACE recovery team and meets with their leaders . She consistently advocates for federal support for Maui residents to ensure the FEMA - led operation remains funded . This federal funding is crucial for clearing debris and preparing Lahaina and Kula for rebuilding .
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