A wildfire risk reduction project to remove wildfire fuel along approximately 42 acres of Maui County property off Honoapiilani Highway in Ukumehame will begin July 31, according to the Maui Emergency Management Agency.

The project is expected to last about 45 to 75 days. County staff and contractors will use heavy equipment to clear brush and remove flammable fuels.

County personnel also plan to remove 160 abandoned vehicles, car batteries and other wildfire hazards near mile marker 13.5. The area has experienced 12 fire incidents in the past two years, according to the Maui Fire Department.

Officials said the project is vital in reducing fire risk along the Honoapiilani Highway corridor, which serves as the primary entrance and exit route to and from Lahaina.