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Where does beach pollution come from?

Beach water becomes polluted when rainwater washes pollutants (like animal poop, fertilizer, pesticides, and trash) from yards, farms, streets, and construction sites. Pollutants can also come from sewage treatment plants and septic tanks that are not working right.

The pollutants cause germs, or microorganisms, to grow in the water. Microorganisms are tiny living creatures that are too small to see with your eyes, so you can't tell if the water is clean by looking at it. Not all of them are bad, but some can make you sick. Some microorganisms at beaches are bacteria, viruses, worms and protozoa.

Bacteria can lead to infections, diarrhea, and stomach aches. Viruses can cause fever, colds, and intestinal infections. They can also make it hard for us to breathe. Some illnesses caused by worms are coughing, chest pain, fever, vomiting and restlessness. While protozoa can cause intestinal infections, stomach cramps and a serious disease called dysentery.

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Beach water becomes polluted when rainwater washes pollutants (like animal poop, fertilizer, pesticides, and trash) from yards, farms, streets, and construction sites. Pollutants can also come from sewage treatment plants and septic tanks that are not working right. The pollutants cause germs, or microorganisms, to grow in the water.

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10 Things You Can Do to Help Save Hawaii’s Coral Reefs

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10 Things You Can Do to Help Save Hawaii’s Coral Reefs

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How to save
the coral reefs
in Hawaii

Our coral reefs are dying. But there is hope! Coral reefs can begin to heal themselves if we make simple changes in our daily lives to allow them to do just that. We've outlined some important things that you can do to help.

Our coral reefs are in grave danger

We must act now to reverse the effects of damaged and dying coral. If we all do our part, we can save our reefs!

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10 Things You Can Do to Help Save Hawaii's Coral Reefs

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Did you know that Hawaii is home to 80% of coral reefs within the United States? It's true! And those coral reefs provide the world - that's right, the WORLD! With beautiful snorkeling spots, fresh fish, clean water, medicine and even oxygen.

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Growing Seafood for our community one pōhaku at a time

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The othere side of the Pacific has the same problem we have here. 

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The othere side of the Pacific has the same problem we have here. 

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Extra fun stuff for kids of all ages.

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Discover online courses for students grades PreK through 12. These courses teach scientific concepts while encouraging a sense of wonder and connection to the natural world.

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BrainPOP - Animated Educational Site for Kids - Science, Social Studies, English, Math, Arts & Music, Health, and Technology

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Where does beach pollution come from?

Beach water becomes polluted when rainwater washes pollutants (like animal poop, fertilizer, pesticides, and trash) from yards, farms, streets, and construction sites. Pollutants can also come from sewage treatment plants and septic tanks that are not working right.

The pollutants cause germs, or microorganisms, to grow in the water. Microorganisms are tiny living creatures that are too small to see with your eyes, so you can't tell if the water is clean by looking at it. Not all of them are bad, but some can make you sick. Some microorganisms at beaches are bacteria, viruses, worms and protozoa.

Bacteria can lead to infections, diarrhea, and stomach aches. Viruses can cause fever, colds, and intestinal infections. They can also make it hard for us to breathe. Some illnesses caused by worms are coughing, chest pain, fever, vomiting and restlessness. While protozoa can cause intestinal infections, stomach cramps and a serious disease called dysentery.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Beach water becomes polluted when rainwater washes pollutants (like animal poop, fertilizer, pesticides, and trash) from yards, farms, streets, and construction sites. Pollutants can also come from sewage treatment plants and septic tanks that are not working right. The pollutants cause germs, or microorganisms, to grow in the water.

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10 Things You Can Do to Help Save Hawaii’s Coral Reefs

# data[].attributes.subject
10 Things You Can Do to Help Save Hawaii’s Coral Reefs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
How to save
the coral reefs
in Hawaii

Our coral reefs are dying. But there is hope! Coral reefs can begin to heal themselves if we make simple changes in our daily lives to allow them to do just that. We've outlined some important things that you can do to help.

Our coral reefs are in grave danger

We must act now to reverse the effects of damaged and dying coral. If we all do our part, we can save our reefs!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
10 Things You Can Do to Help Save Hawaii's Coral Reefs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Did you know that Hawaii is home to 80% of coral reefs within the United States? It's true! And those coral reefs provide the world - that's right, the WORLD! With beautiful snorkeling spots, fresh fish, clean water, medicine and even oxygen.

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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) - A first of its kind assessment of coral reefs in U.S. waters is again sounding the alarm over the continued decline of these sensitive underwater ecosystems, which scientists deem essential to the health of the world's oceans amid the environmental effects posed by human activity and climate change.

The report, released Tuesday by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the University of Maryland, took stock of the health of coral reefs under U.S. jurisdiction, from Guam and Hawaii in the Pacific to Florida and the U.S. Virgin Islands in the Atlantic.

"Our work in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans shows a dire outlook for coral reef ecosystem health, from warming ocean waters, fishing, disease, and pollution from the land," said Heath Kelsey, director of the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science.

When healthy, coral constitute breathtaking underwater colonies of tiny organisms, known as polyps, whose hardened skeletons form clumps or fingerlings of underwater rock known as reefs. The profusion of life they support, including fish and other aquatic creatures, is an important component of the marine ecosystem.

The reefs are natural barriers to storm surges, particularly in regions susceptible to hurricanes.

Officials said it was the first time that a nationwide assessment was conducted, despite years of concern over the health of coral reefs, not just in the U.S. but around the world. Some studies say more than half of the world's reefs have been lost, and that more are in danger.

The status report used data collected between 2012 and 2018 and classified regions as "very good," "good," "fair," "impaired," and "critical."

While the report says the condition of most coral reef regions in the United States was "fair," it added that sewage, lawn chemicals and other pollutants that flow into the oceans pose potentially catastrophic threats to their survival.

"It shouldn't be surprising. There's an immense population of people living in close proximity to those reefs," said Jennifer Koss, the director of NOAA's coral reef conservation program.

"Climate change is the single biggest threat to shallow water coral reefs in the U.S. and worldwide," said Kelsey of the University of Maryland.

"This report represents a snapshot of reef condition and is a great resource for communities and decision-makers throughout the nation. We hope the report starts a dialogue about the various factors and potential solutions to the threats affecting coral reefs," Koss said.

Most U.S. territories were designated as "fair," including those in Hawaii and Puerto Rico. Reefs were in American Samoa and the most remote areas of the Pacific were in "good condition." Florida reefs were said to be in "impaired" condition.

Officials in the state of Florida have become more mindful of the streams of pollution flowing into its coastal waters and the harm they can do to coral. The pollutants also have been blamed for red tides and other ecologically devastating algae blooms.

A bipartisan federal bill cosponsored by lawmakers from Hawaii and Florida - two of the states with the highest stakes on the matter - would provide federal funding to help restore and manage the nation's reefs.

Copyright 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

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Report sounds an alarm on ongoing decline of US coral reefs

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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) - A first of its kind assessment of coral reefs in U.S. waters is again sounding the alarm over the continued decline of these sensitive underwater ecosystems, which scientists deem essential to the health of the world's oceans amid the environmental effects posed by human activity and climate change.

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Let's see how we can encourage others to follow this example.

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HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Three Windward Oahu public and charter schools are discontinuing the practice of throwing away uneaten lunches into the trash.

Instead, they're turning their food waste into a valuable product that people are buying.

"It feels good to know that we are helping the world and we're not wasting food," said Kaohao Elementary student Hilina'i Falkner.

Classes then prepare the compost for gardening.

"It's hard work but it's worth it because you can help the world and make it better," said Ka'ohao Elementary student Kaleo Fleming.

Mindy Jaffe is the creator of the award-winning program. It was ranked number one in the nation by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

"We did great! In 2017, our three schools collected and processed over 30 tons which is over 60,000 pounds of food waste. All that from just three small schools!" said Jaffe.

"The way they manage waste at the public schools is just criminal," Jaffe said. "Waste is really an incredibly valuable resource if you know what to do with it and composting is easy, natural and fun."

"I am a resource recovery specialist. If you look at the food we're collecting, it's seen as waste and we are changing the mnindset that waste is a resource to be collected and used for a positive means," said Nelson.

What was once trash is now a money-maker. The schools will sell a total of 1 1/2 cubic yards of high quality compost and vermicast to the public on Jan. 27 at Kainalu Elementary School from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

"We're not filling dumpsters anymore. With this beautiful, enriched soil, we have better landscaping, beautiful gardens, lovely lawns and educated kids," said Jaffe.

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At 3 Oahu schools, food waste is no longer ending up in the trash

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HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Three Windward Oahu public and charter schools are discontinuing the practice of throwing away uneaten lunches into the trash. Instead, they're turning their food waste into a valuable product that people are buying. "It feels good to know that we are helping the world and we're not wasting food," said Kaohao Elementary student Hilina'i Falkner.

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#2 shocked me. WOW

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The majority of environmental issues affecting Hawaii today are related to pressures from increasing human and animal population and urban expansion both directly on the islands as well as overseas. These include tourism, urbanization, climate change implications, pollution, invasive species, etc.

The waters surrounding the Hawaiian Islands are affected by increasing waste products like marine debris from land and ocean sources washing onto shore as well as effluents generated and released from the islands themselves. Oceans in particular are being devastated by factors including marine debris, plastic pollution, and tourism.

Marine debris

Marine debris is defined "as any persistent solid material that ishughgudcxttt web|url= https://oceanexplorer.noaa.gov/okeanos/explorations/ex1803/logs/apr18/welcome.html%7Ctitle=Okeanos Explorer | Expeditions | NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer: Gulf of Mexico 2018 | Mission Logs | Deep Sea Debris|last=Administration|first=US Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric|website=oceanexplorer.noaa.gov|language=EN-US|access-date=2018-05-12}}</ref> that is both a land-based and ocean-based issue faced across the world. The positioning of Hawaii in particular makes it a high-impact target for marine debris, given the natural ocean currents and its relative location to the North Pacific Subtropical Convergence Zone. As a result, marine debris is not limited to waste from the islands exclusively but is also carried from other locations around the world. Several organizations, both government and non-government agencies have taken initiatives to counter the environmental impacts of debris carried onto shore through clean-up efforts. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which performs under the United States Department of Commerce, has "led this mission every year since 1996, removing a total of 904 tons of marine debris" as of 2014.

Plastic pollution

Although plastic pollution remains under the umbrella of "marine debris", it is one of the largest concerns affecting marine life and the most ubiquitous source of pollution across the oceans. In a 2014 study, the "first study that compares all sizes of floating plastic in the world's oceans from the largest items to small microplastics," researchers estimated that a minimum of 5.25 trillion plastic particles exist in the ocean. Historically, the U.S. military used the ocean as a dumping ground for munitions from 1919 to 1970, and the U.S. army dumped 16,000 mustard gas bombs in deep water (south of Pearl Harbor after World War II.) Presently, floating plastic garbage from disposable consumer products accumulate in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, from debris eventually find its way onto the reefs and beaches in Hawaii. Kamilo Beach, located at the southern tip of the Big Island, has been devastated by plastic pollution from the patch and was named "The Dirtiest Beach in the World" by the British Broadcasting Company ( BBC). Unique to this site is the abundance of both microplastic and meso-plastic, where geologists found plastic-infused rocks called"plastiglomerates "; they expect this new rock become a part of the fossil record, indicating the intensity of human influence on the environment. Plastiglomerates are formed when "melted plastic binds together sand, shells, pebbles, basalt, coral and wood, or seeps into the cavities of larger rocks to form a rock-plastic hybrid"; although they were not discovered until 2012 by Captain Charles Moore from Algalita Marine Research Institute, plastiglomerates occur in other parts of the world, in part by fire-using activities such as bonfires.

The presence of plastic is harmful to marine life, including seabirds, that often get entangled in plastic or mistake plastics as food sources and consume them. Studies show that ingestion can block gastric enzyme secretion, diminish feeding stimulus, lower hormone levels, and lead to reproductive failure. "The Pollution of the Marine Environment by Plastic Debris" review in the Marine Pollution Bulletin notes several species impacted by plastic ingestion influenced by foraging and selectivity factors, such as the loggerhead sea turtle, in which a pattern of white plastics were found to have been consumed.

Although the term has shifted meanings over the years, tourism is now more accurately defined as "the set of activities performed by people who travel and stay in places outside their usual environment for not more than one consecutive year, for leisure, business and other purposes". Tourism in Hawaii began in the 19th century and persists today with its tropical weather and landscapes. Welcoming over seven million visitors annually, it is one of the major contributors to Hawaii's economy

Although it adds to the state's economic growth, tourism is a non-geologically driven environmental issue that also degrades the island ecosystems islands, primarily Hawaiʻi, Oʻahu, Maui, and Kauaʻi, the sites of the major tourism industries. Major concerns of the urban infrastructure development for tourism include habitat loss for local flora and fauna, energy use, consumer waste and pollution, and water shortages. Because of their need to satisfy travel customers, resort destinations' reliance on "the shining sun", "a comfortable climate", and "the beautiful sea" heighten resource use. A 2013 study of five tourism sectors in Hawai'i assessed total waste accumulation and resource consumption and estimated that the tourism industry was responsible for "21.7% of the island's total energy consumption, 44.7% of the island-wide water consumption, and 10.7% of the island-wide waste generation". Considering the many negative impacts from tourism, many advocates suggest a push towards a more socially responsible alternative, ecotourism, that would offer a win-win solution by adopting a business model to sustainable practices.

Invasive species are non-native organisms that are introduced, often by humans, to an ecosystem. However, what differentiates invasive species from non-native species is their negative impact and threat to economic, environmental, and human health, which aided by their ability to easily adapt and reproduce. Although invasive species may be introduced naturally, they are typically introduced by accidental or intentional means; intentional purposes include habitat restoration, removal of pests, etc.

A number of plant species are now extinct due to grazing livestock, and aggressive non-indigenous species taking over the land. Almost 40% of the endangered species in the United States are Hawaiian species, while nearly 75% of all U.S. extinctions have occurred in Hawaii.

The native flora comprises 89% endemic species, but the flora of Hawaii now includes more than 1044 introduced plant species; more than 100 of these are likely to be invasive in natural areas. Species such as the strawberry guava (Psidium cattleianum), and christmasberry ( Schinus terebinthifolius) have spread across wide areas, competing with native species and altering the natural ecosystem. Recent invaders like miconia or velvet tree ( Miconia calvescens) and Himalayan raspberry (Rubus ellipticus) are now permanently established over large areas. These species are predicted to decrease watershed function.

Prior to the arrival of non-natives, some bird species were made extinct, or pushed to near extinction from the collection of feathers by Native Hawaiians. With the arrival of James Cook in 1778, a new set of environmental threats emerged. Alien species such as cats, dogs, rabbits, pigs, and rats affected a number of indigenous species. Hawaii is known as the "extinction capital of the world" with the extinction of nearly half (140) of its historically recorded native bird species. Some of the alien species that are currently affecting Hawaii include cane toads, mongoose, coquí frogs, gall wasps, Mediterranean, Oriental, and melon flies that damage crops, ants that destroy native insects, and bacteria that infect waters.

Compared with the mainland United States, Hawaii's rating on the air quality index is ranked among the best. Approximately 47% of all emissions are caused by burning fossil fuel for electricity production. Ground transport is the second biggest contributor with 22%, while air transport contributes 19%.

This is a list of Superfund sites in Hawaii designated under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) environmental law. The CERCLA federal law of 1980 authorized the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to create a brief list of polluted locations requiring a long-term response to clean up hazardous material contaminations. These locations are known as Superfund sites, and are placed on the National Priorities List (NPL). The NPL guides the EPA in "determining which sites warrant further investigation" for environmental remediation. As of May 1, 2010, there were three Superfund sites on the National Priorities List in Hawaii. One further site has been cleaned up and removed from the NPL; no sites are currently proposed for addition. All sites are on the island of Oahu.

Deleted from National Priorities List

Hawaii Superferry - concerns were raised that the ferry service would harm marine life, and the unrestricted transport of vehicles may spread invasive species.

1. ^ Pichel, William G.; Churnside, James H.; Veenstra, Timothy S.; Foley, David G.; Friedman, Karen S.; Brainard, Russell E.; Nicoll, Jeremy B.; Zheng, Quanan; Clemente-Colón, Pablo (2007). "Marine debris collects within the North Pacific Subtropical Convergence Zone". Marine Pollution Bulletin. 54 (8): 1207-1211. doi:10.1016/j.marpolbul.2007.04.010. ISSN 0025-326X. PMID 17568624.

2. ^ Eriksen, Marcus; Lebreton, Laurent C. M.; Carson, Henry S.; Thiel, Martin; Moore, Charles J.; Borerro, Jose C.; Galgani, Francois; Ryan, Peter G.; Reisser, Julia (December 2014). "Plastic Pollution in the World's Oceans: More than 5 Trillion Plastic Pieces Weighing over 250,000 Tons Afloat at Sea". PLOS ONE. 9 (12): e111913. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0111913. PMC . PMID 25494041.

3. ^ Johnson, T (2005). "Biological control of weeds in Hawaiian forests". Position Paper Hawaii Conservation Alliance.

4. ^ Derraik, José G.B (2002). "The pollution of the marine environment by plastic debris: a review". Marine Pollution Bulletin. 44 (9): 842-852. doi:10.1016/s0025-326x(02)00220-5. ISSN 0025-326X. PMID 12405208.

5. ^ Ishihara, Hayato; Nagahama, Koichi (2017). "Tourism Development and Environmental Problems on Hawaii in the late 20th Century". 長崎県立大学東アジア研究所『東アジア評論』第９号: 77-85.

6. ^ Saito, Osamu (2013-08-01). "Resource Use and Waste Generation by the Tourism Industry on the Big Island of Hawaii". Journal of Industrial Ecology. 17 (4): 578-589. doi:10.1111/jiec.12007. ISSN 1530-9290.

7. ^ Darowski, Lukasz; Strilchuk, Jordan; Sorochuk, Jason; Provost, Casey (2007). "Negative Impact of Tourism on Hawaii Natives and Environment". Lethbridge Undergraduate Research Journal. 1.

8. ^ Yoon, Carol Kaesuk (1992-12-29). "Alien Species Threaten Hawaii's Environment". The New York Times.

9. ^ Reeser, D.; B. Harry (Nov 2005). "Controlling Ungulate Populations in native ecosystems in Hawaii" (PDF). Position Paper. Hawaii Conservation Alliance.

10. ^ Johnson, T. (2005-12-03). "Biological control of weeds in Hawaiian forests" (PDF). Position Paper. Hawaii Conservation Alliance.

11. ^ Groombridge, Jim (2008-01-28). "Hawaii: extinction capital of the world". Features & Special Reports. Natural Environment Research Council. Archived from the original on 2009-01-08.

12. ^ Kaya, Maurice H. (2002-05-01). "Hawaii: Energy, the Environment, and the Economy". Air Pollution as a Climate Forcing: A Workshop. East-West Center: Goddard Institute for Space Studies.

U.S. Global Change Research Program (2018). "Hawai'i and U.S.-Affiliated Pacific Islands". Impacts, Risks, and Adaptation in the United States: Fourth National Climate Assessment, Volume II (Report). Washington, DC, USA: U.S. Global Change Research Program. p. 1242-1308. doi:10.7930/NCA4.2018.CH27.

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The majority of environmental issues affecting Hawaii today are related to pressures from increasing human and animal population and urban expansion both directly on the islands as well as overseas. These include tourism, urbanization, climate change implications, pollution, invasive species, etc.

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Here are a few locations on all islands for Stargazing....

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Most people visit Hawaii for daytime activities: snorkeling, sunbathing, or exploring the active volcanic areas of each of the five main islands that attract travelers. For stargazing, Hawaii is also a great destination: each island offers a unique quality to the night sky, and Hawaii's remoteness and concentrated residential development create dark sky areas that are among the best in the world.

Each of the Hawaiian islands offers something different to visitors - and all have fantastic stargazing spots. Below we've detailed some of your options on each of the five main islands, as well as one bonus stargazing 'spot' you might be surprised to learn about.

Whether you visit the Big Island (Hawaii), the Garden Island (Kauai), or any in between, you'll be surprised how much fun can still be had after the sun sets over the beach. Here's what you need to know about stargazing in Hawaii.
This post was originally published in April 2019, and was updated in September 2020.
The Big Island

On Hawaii, you'll find some of the world's best observatories, perched on the volcanic peaks that dominate the landscape. The Big Island is the youngest of the Hawaiian islands, less than a million years old. In fact, Hawaii is still growing due to volcanic activity as recently as 2018. This means that unlike some of the other islands, parts of Hawaii are vast stretches of lava with virtually no development or light pollution.

On some parts of the island, you can get away from everything and everyone in search of a dark night sky - and you'll find it.

Best Stargazing Spots on the Big Island of Hawaii

Mauna Kea

Most known for its famous observatories, Mauna Kea and its slopes offer some of the best stargazing on Hawaii. There are several parking areas and roads where you can pull off the saddle road. From there, you can drive up onto the mountain to a good elevation (8,000ft+), and see some of the clearest, darkest skies in the world.
Related: 25 of the Best Observatories in the U.S.
Mauna Loa

Mauna Loa was originally chosen as the site for Hawaii's observatories. Unfortunately, its lower elevation made it more prone to cloud cover. On a clear night, the slopes of Mauna Loa are virtually empty. You'll feel like you have the universe to yourself!

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

After the volcanic activity in 2018 ended, there is no current lava flowing in the national park. This means that the air quality in Volcanoes National Park is at its clearest in years. Campgrounds like Kulanaokuaiki and Nāmakanipaio are the best places to go stargazing in the park.

Other Places to Go Stargazing on Hawaii

Photo by James at Epic Tours

There are countless places where you can go stargazing on Hawaii's Big Island. Ask your host or hotel concierge for their local insight and favorite places.

Many hotels on Hawaii offer stargazing programs right on site, too. At the Fairmont Orchid, local amateur astronomers come to the property on Friday nights. They set up a telescope and offer a view of the sky, plus do a guided talk that teaches about the night sky.

Stargazing Tours on the Big Island

If you want to ensure a great stargazing experience on the Big Island, consider booking with Epic Tours. This Hilo-based company offers stargazing tours combined with other activities - like waterfall viewing and lava tube hiking. Their tours run most nights and guide James brings the group as high up the slopes of Mauna Kea as necessary to find clear skies:

Book in advance to ensure you get a spot on these small group tours (six guests max per night!).

Maui

Photo credit: Ray Terrill via Flickr

On Maui, you can stargaze from the mountains, the beach, or both in the same night! Maui's two mountain ranges and connecting isthmus offer many different ecosystems and stargazing opportunities.

Best Stargazing Spots on the Maui

Haleakalā

Haleakalā National Park is Maui's famous volcano and stargazing spot. Home to a mountaintop observatory, you can also ascend after dark for stargazing on your own (or with a tour). There are several pullouts and overlooks that are perfect spots.

Kalahaku Overlook

The most popular overlook on Haleakalā, this site on the western slopes has unobstructed views and virtually no light pollution. It's a great spot to watch the sunset too, and then see the stars pop out overhead.

Honomanū Bay

On the northern shore, Honomanū Bay is another good stargazing spot. The bay offers natural protection from the light pollution of nearby communities.

Stargazing Tours on Maui

Photo credit: Rodrigo Sala via Flickr

There are several tour operators on Maui, but Maui Stargazing is the most popular. Their 5-hour stargazing tours will let you watch the sunset on Haleakalā summit followed by over an hour of telescope time.

The Hyatt Tour of the Stars is one of the best-known stargazing tours on Maui. The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa offers several shows nightly (usually 8:00 pm and 9:00 pm), weather permitting. You don't need to be a hotel guest to book this tour.

Molokai

Don't overlook little Moloka'i as a stargazing destination. This small island receives fewer visitors but makes up for it with limited development and dark skies over the whole island. In particular, Kaupoa Beach on the western shore is well-isolated and you can stargaze while the waves crash on the shore.

Oahu

Oahu is the most popular Hawaiian islands to visit since the capital (and largest) city, Honolulu, is located there. The island is small enough that you can easily reach stargazing spots even if you stay in the big city. Here are some of the top spots from our stargazing in Honolulu guide:

Diamond Head State Monument

Diamond Head State Monument is the crater of a dormant volcano. Although the gates close at 6 pm, it's still possible to get an excellent view of the stars from its parking area. It's also a popular tourist attraction, so expect a crowd to be there.

Mount Tantalus

Mount Tantalus is a massive cinder cone located near the city of Honolulu. Along with providing a great view of Honolulu in general, it also provides an excellent view of the night sky. It's a perfect spot for those who enjoy both hiking and stargazing.

Hanauma Bay

This beach is a very famous tourist area, and is a great place for snorkeling and watching the marine life. It's open at night two weekends a month for night snorkeling. This is a good time to grab your telescope and go stargazing. The beach's lack of light pollution makes it very easy to see the stars.

Kauai

Lastly, Kauai has its own special opportunity for stargazing. The small, circular island is distant from others and you can go stargazing on basically any of the shores in any direction.

Salt Pond Park

Located on the southern shore, Salt Pond Park is a popular and easy-access spot for snorkeling, swimming, and fishing during the day. At night, you can stay at the campground and go stargazing.

Polihale State Park

Polihale State Park is a little harder to reach on the western shore, but as a result, it's even more isolated. This means you'll have virtually no light pollution to interfere with your stargazing session while you camp in the park.

Ha'ena State Park

On the north shore, Ha'ena State Park is both easy access and isolated, making it possibly the best option if the skies are clear or you have limited time on Kauai. You can camp right on the beach here, too.

If you're looking for a guided stargazing tour on Kauai, Stargaze Kauai is your best bet. The guide lives on Kauai's west side (which has clearer sky prospects), and hosts tours at sites on that side of the island.

On a Hawaiian Cruise

Photo credit: Robert Linsdell via Flickr

The above sections cover all your stargazing options in Hawaii, right? Actually, there's one last way to see the stars, and it ranks among the best: from a boat!

While some of the big cruise companies offer Hawaiian cruises, your best bet is on a charter vessel or a small-ship cruise. The most popular by far is UnCruise. Their Hawaiian cruise itineraries allow you to explore the islands and waterways by day (think snorkeling every day), and stay up late to admire the stars at night.

While you won't have much success with a telescope or shooting astrophotos from the UnCruise ship due to wave action, your eyes can certainly enjoy the wonders of the night sky including the expanse of the Milky Way and even some southern hemisphere constellations (like the Southern Cross!).
Have questions about stargazing in Hawaii or cruising in Hawaii? Let us know in the comments! Featured photo credit: j.a.woodhouse via Flickr

About the Author

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The Ultimate Guide for Stargazing in Hawaii

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Most people visit Hawaii for daytime activities: snorkeling, sunbathing, or exploring the active volcanic areas of each of the five main islands that attract travelers. For stargazing, Hawaii is also a great destination: each island offers a unique quality to the night sky, and Hawaii's remoteness and concentrated residential development create dark sky areas that are among the best in the world.

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There are approximately 88,000 cesspools in Hawaii in 2020.

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Background

Cesspools are used throughout Hawaii for the disposal of untreated sanitary waste. Discharge of raw, untreated sewage to a cesspool can contaminate oceans, streams and groundwater by releasing disease-causing pathogens and nitrates. Pathogens found in untreated sewage can impact human health by contaminating drinking water or waters used for swimming. Nitrates can damage land or aquatic ecosystems including coral reefs. Groundwater provides approximately 95% of all domestic water in Hawaii.

Most cesspools in Hawaii serve only single-family residences and are not regulated by EPA. However, large-capacity cesspools (LCCs) are subject to EPA's Underground Injection Control (UIC) regulations, which required all existing large-capacity cesspools to be closed by April 5, 2005. The regulations do not allow for a waiver or extension of the deadline.

Visit the Large-Capacity Cesspools page to learn more and find out if you own or operate a large-capacity cesspool.

Region 9 UIC Inventory Form

Large-capacity cesspools are considered Underground Injection Control (UIC) wells, and owners and operators of large-capacity cesspools must submit inventory information to EPA. You can use this online form or download Form 7520-16: Inventory of Injection Wells and mail it to the R9 LCC Coordinator.

If you need assistance submitting inventory information, please do not hesitate to contact the R9 LCC Coordinator.

Properly Abandon and Close a
Large-Capacity Cesspool

All owners and operators must properly abandon and close their large-capacity cesspool(s). If you are an owner or operator of a large-capacity cesspool you should contact the Hawaii State Department of Health (HDOH) Wastewater Branch (see ' State Resources', above) for guidance on replacing the large-capacity cesspool with a State-approved wastewater system.

To document proper closure of a large-capacity cesspool that receives 1,000 gallons per day (gpd) or less, you must submit a completed and signed Backfilling Final Completion Report. If the large-capacity cesspool receives more than 1,000 gpd, then you need to contact HDOH/Safe Drinking Water Branch, Underground Injection Control Program (see ' State Resources', above) for proper closure instructions.

All documentation demonstrating large-capacity cesspool abandonment and closure should also be submitted to EPA Region 9's Large-Capacity Cesspool Coordinator.

Hawaii State Department of Health (HDOH)/Wastewater Branch

There are approximately 88,000 cesspools in Hawaii; most of which are small-capacity cesspools. Property owners and operators must comply with all federal and state requirements for cesspools.

The HDOH/Wastewater Branch oversees and permits all onsite wastewater systems, including cesspools. HDOH regulations require that cesspools of any size be upgraded, converted, or closed by January 1, 2050.

Enforcement and Compliance

EPA's enforcement activities are designed to investigate and bring cases against individuals or facilities found in violation of the Safe Drinking Water Act's UIC regulations. Regulated entities found in violation may face an enforcement action and fines. EPA is authorized to issue administrative orders requiring compliance and assessing an administrative civil penalty of up to $23,331 for each day of each violation, up to a maximum penalty of $291,641, against an owner or operator of a large-capacity cesspool that violates the Safe Drinking Water Act.

EPA Region 9 has entered into Consent Agreements with a number of regulated entities in Hawaii, including public agencies, businesses and residential facilities, to address violations of the large-capacity cesspool requirements. These enforcement actions have imposed penalties and resulted in closure of about 1,138 large-capacity cesspools statewide.

EPA is authorized to issue compliance orders and/or assess penalties to violators of the Safe Drinking Water Act's large-capacity cesspool regulations. However, to encourage owners and operators to voluntarily discover, promptly disclose, and expeditiously close large-capacity cesspools, EPA is willing to forego enforcement actions and penalties under its Self-Disclosed Violations Policies.

Information on how to self-disclose potential large-capacity cesspool violations is available at: EPA's eDisclosure.

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Cesspools are more widely used in Hawaii than in any other state in the country. EPA Region 9 is responsible for implementing the regulations in Hawaii and works with the Hawaii State Department of Health (DOH) to ensure effective implementation.

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Boats and Harbors could make pollution just like us land Lovers. 

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Boats and Harbors could make pollution just like us land Lovers. 

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For information or comments, please click here to send your request through email.
Reporting Violations

Stormwater Reporting Hotline: 808-587-1962 (working hours only); Click here to download the Suspected Illicit Discharge Reporting Form (to be used for Island of Oahu only)

Marine Traffic Control Center: 808-587-2076 (all hours)

Marine Cargo Specialist: 808-587-2053

City and County of Honolulu Environmental Concern Hotline: 808-768-3300

Department of Health, Clean Water Branch: 808-586-4249

Coast Guard: 1-800-424-8802

National Response Center: 1-800-424-8802

Consent Decree Storm Water Management Plans

Storm Water Management Plan, Honolulu Harbor,Updated 2009
DOT Harbors Division's SWMP for Honolulu Harbor. Describes minimum control measures required by Hawaii Administrative Rules (HAR), Chapter 11-55, Appendix K

Storm Water Management Plan (SWMP),Kalaeloa Barber's Point Harbor,Updated 2009 DOT Harbors Division's SWMP for Honolulu Harbor. Describes minimum control measures required by HAR, Chapter 11-55, Appendix K

2015 Storm Water Management Plan, Honolulu Harbor & Kalaeloa Barber's Point Harbor Describes minimum control measures required by EPA and HAR, Chapter 11-55, Appendix K

Storm Water Training Notices of General Permit Coverage for Honolulu and Kalaeloa Barbers Point Harbors Annual Compliance Reports HDOT Harbors Construction and Post-Construction Programs - Documents and Forms HDOT Harbors Tenant Inspection Program - Documents and Forms Harbors Best Management Practices (BMP) Fliers

1. BMPs for Vehicle and Equipment Washing

2. BMPs for Vehicle and Equipment Fueling

3. BMPs for Material Storage

4. BMPs for Common Businesses

5. BMPs for Solid and Hazardous Waste Management

6. BMPs for Material Delivery and Handling

7. BMPs for Building and Remodeling

8. BMPs for Small Vessel Maintenance Activities

9. BMPs for Building Power Washing

10. BMPs for Sidewalk and Walkway Power Washing

11. BMPs for Storm Drain Inlet Protection

Spill Prevention Control and Counter Measures (SPCC) Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) main website for SPCC guidance. Other Resources

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"Mālama i ke awa kai" - Protect Our Harbor Waters For information or comments, please click here to send your request through email. Reporting Violations Stormwater Reporting Hotline: 808-587-1962 (working hours only); Click here to download the Suspected Illicit Discharge Reporting Form (to be used for Island of Oahu only) Marine Traffic Control Center: 808-587-2076 (all [...]

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Baby Steps What You Can Do:

Small actions can lead to big change. Whether it is identifying the destination of household downspouts, recycling, or changing the way cars are washed, we can all help prevent storm water pollution from entering Oahu's water resources.

Learn More

Big Steps What You Can Do:

Preventing storm water pollution from entering your area's water resources may require a greater effort. For example, utilizing a rain barrel to capture roof runoff will help ensure that storm water will not transport pollutants into the nearest storm drain inlet.
Learn More

Giant Steps What You Can Do:

We can go even further to prevent storm water pollution. Replacing your paved driveway with a pervious surface will help storm water filter into the soil rather than flow over paved surfaces.

Learn More

The HDOT Highways Storm Water Management Program is involved in a variety of activities to help prevent storm water pollution from entering our community's valuable water resources. Click on the images above to find out more about HDOT Highways' various efforts.

There is a variety of activities we can do and change to help prevent polluted storm water from entering Oahu's water bodies. Click here to find out what you can do in your garden, garage and around your home to make a difference.

Learn More

We all have a responsibility to do our part in preventing storm water pollution, including businesses. Businesses are in a unique position to be a positive example in the community so that others may follow. Click here to find out ways your business can help prevent storm water pollution from entering Oahu's water bodies.

Learn More

Construction is a major industry in our islands. Unfortunately, erosion that takes place during construction projects can contribute to storm water pollution. This section will provide information about HDOT Highways' comprehensive construction site runoff control program to prevent water pollution during construction activities on State highways.

Learn More

Water is one of the most utilized and important elements in our natural daily lives....

Read More

The Industrial and Commercial (IC) team was put together as part of the State of...

Read More

We are approaching Hawaii's rainy season, which lasts from November through March, which means now...

Read More

One of the most critical ways to keep our storm water runoff free of pollutants and debris is to adopt a highway. The State DOT Adopt-A-Highway program is a public service program that allows volunteers from any organization to pick up litter along Hawaii's state highways. This is your chance to make a personal contribution to a cleaner Hawaii!

Learn More

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Storm Water Hawaii - DOT-HWYS, Oahu District

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Baby Steps What You Can Do: Small actions can lead to big change. Whether it is identifying the destination of household downspouts, recycling, or changing the way cars are washed, we can all help prevent storm water pollution from entering Oahu's water resources.

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Pollution can smother coral reefs, lower water quality, and make corals more susceptible to disease

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An array of plastic crunched underfoot as Mattie Mae Larson walked down Kamilo Beach. Toothbrushes, a plastic broom, a leaking bottle, the back of a TV.

Larson used to come to this remote stretch of Hawaiian sand as a child to climb 10ft-high mountains of debris, searching for treasures.

"As kids, we called it plastic beach," she recalls. But today she's back with a different mission.

Kamilo Beach, located on the south-eastern tip of Hawaii's Big Island, has been dubbed one of the most plastic-polluted spots on the planet. On a bright day last summer, Larson and fellow members of the Hawaii Wildlife Fund (HWF), a team of conservation volunteers, collected 1,400lb of it.

Hawaii has long evoked images of a remote Pacific paradise, a land of pristine beaches and extraordinary biodiversity. But its unique location has forced the islands to reckon with an unwelcome guest: plastic debris washing up in vast quantities, sullying its waters and threatening its marine life. A 2019 study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that Hawaiian fish begin eating plastic particles just days after being born.

For Larson and other activists, Kamilo Beach has become ground zero of the crisis.

Along Kamilo Beach, plastic is ever present. Photograph: Liz Barney/The Guardian

Hawaii sits at the center of swirling ocean currents, just east of the Great Pacific garbage patch. As a result, its shoreline catches plastic from all over the world, some of it decades old. Just a few weeks prior, Larson found a vintage Sea and Ski tanning lotion bottle, most likely from the 1950s.

On Kamilo Beach, plastic pollution accumulated unchecked for decades due to inaccessibility. The very first cleanup here was organized after the group's founder, Bill Gilmartin, witnessed the birth of a rare Hawaiian monk seal pup on the massive pilesof plastic. In 2003, he led a team in removing more than 50 tons of marine debris over three days.

Regular cleanups have prevented the return of 10ft tall piles of plastic, but daily debris continues to trickle in, with no end in sight. HWF estimates that between 15 and 20 tons of debris wash up here annually, and that 96% of it is plastic. The group has so far removed 283 tons of plastic debris from the shores of Hawai'i island, and a significant portion has been from this location alone.

Larson and her team divide into two groups. Each participant is tasked with collecting a specific type of plastic, which will be categorized and recorded.

Along the wide beach, plastic is ever present. The waves crashing on jagged black lava rocks glisten with blue, pink and white flecks of microplastic. The soft white sand is speckled with a variety of household items - a plastic spoon, the end of a broom, the sole of a shoe, half a dustpan. Many items are covered in barnacles and algae acquired from unknown years of ocean travel.

In many ways, Larson's shifting relationship with plastic mirrors that of wider society - once hailed as a wonder-material, plastic is now a reviled pollutant found on every corner of the planet and deep inside our bodies. "Literally, plastic was so cool when I was growing up in the 90s," Larson says. "You had to have slap bracelets and banana clips in order not to be teased at school."

"It's crazy to look back on that perspective," she says. "I remember having one of these moments in a college geology class where everything flashes in front of your face and I realized, oh my God, that's not right, that's my plastic, and fish are eating that. "

awaii's remarkable wildlife has been particularly hard hit. Across the islands, marine wildlife agents continue to find humpback whales ensnared in abandoned fishing nets and turtles hooked on plastic bags, while fishermen routinely haul in catches of fish with plastic-filled bodies.

Longtime residents describe a transformation of their homeland from pure to plastic-riddled. Roger Bialas, who has been spearfishing around Oahu for over 30 years, says the waters "used to be crystal clear".

"It was like swimming in an aquarium. Every color of fish you could think of." Now he sees a lot of "food wrappers, shopping bags", as well as fishing lines.

"Sometimes after being in the ocean, back on land, my skin feels dirty," he adds.

Ocean trash and debris floating off Hawaii. Photograph: Bryce Groark/Alamy

Reef fish, commonly eaten by local fishermen, are often the most likely to consume plastic particles, but the contamination doesn't stop there. Many of those reef fish are eaten by larger fish, such as tuna, which absorb the plastics into their fatty tissues. In a culture that celebrates fresh fish and raw dishes such as poke, many fear for the health repercussions.

Ted Clark is a spearfisher and glass sculptor who shares his catch with family, neighbors, and others in need of food. He lives on the east side of Oahu, and has seen the plastic trash increase over the last decade.

"I hate cutting out plastic from fish," he says, explaining that fish do not know the difference between plastic and food, especially when they're in a feeding frenzy.

At a 400-year-old fishpond in Kāne'ohe Bay on Oahu - one of many built by ancient Hawaiians that allowed saltwater in through the porous rocks, while keeping fish from escaping - plastic trash collects on the high watermark along its rock walls, according to Rosalyn "Roz" Ku'uleimomi Rubio Dias Concepcion.

"I've definitely seen an increase in plastic washing up on shore since I've started, and I would have to say in the last three to four years it's become more of an issue," she says.

Concepcion described the plastic debris that floats around and into the Waikalua Loko fishpond as "a constant thing". Crates, bottles, straws and nets, she said, also wash into the fishpond during the "extreme high tides". She says they've found fish in the pond and surrounding bay eating algae that grows off the floating plastic. "They are digesting the very fine, fine microparticles. Then you find it's in their stomach."

Mattie Mae Larson of the Hawaii Wildlife Fund, collects plastic from Kamilo Beach. Photograph: Liz Barney/The Guardian

awaii's efforts to push back on rampant plastics consumption have been among the boldest in the country. In 2015, it became the first state in the US to ban plastic bags at grocery stores. Earlier this year, Maui and the Big Island banned polystyrene containers. And Honolulu, the state's capital, in December passed one of the most restrictive plastic bans in the US, prohibiting all single-use plastic food containers, including straws and utensils, as well as Styrofoam.

Steven Colbert, the department chair of the marine science program at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, describes the bans as positive steps, saying the state needs to reduce its dependence on these materials as well as figure out ways to prevent them from getting into the environment.

Here's the thing about the chemistry of plastic, it will never go away

Megan Lamson

"A lot of those Styrofoam containers were being used to take your plate lunch down to go to the beach to eat it," says Colbert. "And then they weren't being disposed of properly and that Styrofoam was getting into our oceans."

Data collected by the HWF has been used in support of legislation to reduce plastic use.

"Here's the thing about the chemistry of plastic, it will never go away," says Megan Lamson, a scientist and cleanup volunteer with HWF. "When your bathtub is overflowing, you have to turn off the water before you start baling."

Her words ring truer here than on the mainland US - when you're surrounded by thousands of miles of blue Pacific, making plastic "go away" is a challenge. The state's landfills are reaching capacity, forcing the local counties to look for alternatives.

As a result of market volatility in the wake of China's new limits on plastic imports, Hawaii county officials announced in October that they would no longer accept plastic recycling, diverting thousands of tons of additional waste to landfill. Kauai county, meanwhile, has also begun landfilling once-recyclable plastics, while on Oahu, most trash is now being incinerated.

Hawaii's efforts to push back on rampant plastics consumption have been among the boldest in the country. Liz Barney/The Guardian

"We are in a literal state of emergency when it comes to our municipal waste," says Lamson.

Most experts agree that without big changes in the way corporations produce and consumers use plastics, places like Hawaii will continue to bear the brunt of the planet's dependency.

In the meantime, volunteers continue to fight the rising tide, piece by piece.

Back at Kamilo, a group of Canadian engineers prepared to test the Hoola One, a vacuum-like machine that collects sand and separates the microplastics. These tiny fragments, formed when plastic breaks down, are the greatest challenge during beach cleanups.

The group glanced nervously at each other, admitting they were not expecting such rough roads. The machine sits on the back of a trailer with small tires not equipped for off-roading on jagged lava rock. But the group remained hopeful.

A few days later, they report back. The machine removed 230lb of microplastics in just a few days.

It's only a start, and there's a long way to go. But the crew doesn't plan on giving up. "If we can clean up Kamilo," says Samuel Duval, a Hoola One engineer, "we can clean up anywhere in the world."

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Welcome to Hawaii's 'plastic beach', one of the world's dirtiest places

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An array of plastic crunched underfoot as Mattie Mae Larson walked down Kamilo Beach. Toothbrushes, a plastic broom, a leaking bottle, the back of a TV. Larson used to come to this remote stretch of Hawaiian sand as a child to climb 10ft-high mountains of debris, searching for treasures.

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Plant Industry Division Promotes expansion of Hawaii's agriculture by overcoming quarantine restrictions, as well as preventing the entry and establishment of detrimental animals, insects, weeds, plant diseases, and other pests. When most people think of Hawaii, visions of beautiful tropical flowers and foliage often come to mind.

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EPA: Waters Around Two Hawaii Beaches Impaired by Plastic Pollution

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EPA: Waters Around Two Hawaii Beaches Impaired by Plastic Pollution

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HONOLULU- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has found the waters around Hawaii's Kamilo Beach and Tern Island to be impaired by plastic pollution and ordered state officials to take corrective actions under the Clean Water Act. The decision overrules repeated attempts by Hawaii officials to deny evidence of plastic pollution harming bodies of water around the islands.

The Center for Biological Diversity, Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii and Surfrider Foundation sued the EPA in February for accepting Hawaii's annual list of impaired waters, which ignored evidence of plastic pollution in 17 bodies of water submitted by the groups. In response, the EPA ordered Hawaii's Department of Health to examine that evidence and submit a new list.

When Hawaii again failed to list the notoriously polluted Tern Island and Kamilo Beach (nicknamed Plastic Beach), EPA Regional Administrator John W. Busterud unilaterally decided to list them this week. He ordered Hawaii to include them in water-quality management plans to reduce the impact of plastic pollution on its waters, beaches and wildlife.

"Kamilo Beach is notorious for being covered in plastic, and this EPA finding will push state and federal agencies to face that reality," said Maxx Phillips, the Center's Hawaii director. "Ocean plastic pollution is a crisis here in Hawaii. It chokes wildlife and carries toxins onto our beaches and through our food web. Hawaii's Department of Health is now being forced to finally address this threat."

Plastic pollution in Hawaii ranges from microplastics that contaminate coastal waters and harm marine life to massive piles of plastic waste along Kamilo Beach. The Clean Water Act requires the EPA to designate as "impaired" all water bodies that fail to meet state water-quality standards. Once a water body is designated as impaired, officials must take action to reduce the pollution.

"We are encouraged that the EPA is taking steps to address plastic pollution in the ocean and on our beaches, as a major cause of water quality impairment," said Angela Howe, Surfrider Foundation's legal director. "Our Hawaii chapters and entire chapter network across the country are committed to addressing the plight of plastic pollution, including through the use of the full extent of our clean water laws, such as here."

Plastic pollution poses a serious threat to Hawaii's water quality and vulnerable marine ecosystems. Microplastics, or plastics that have broken into tiny pieces, are emerging as a major threat to marine wildlife and water quality. Microplastics can absorb environmental toxins and get eaten by fish and other marine life and eventually be consumed by humans.

"While we appreciate this monumental step with the listing of these two sites as impaired, there is immense work still to be done. Most of the waters and coastlines of Hawaii are plagued by marine debris and micro plastic, leaving them unquestionably impaired," said Rafael Bergstrom, executive director of Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii. "Our Department of Health should be concerned about the severity of the issue and not evading responsibility. We must hold the fossil fuel industry and plastic producers responsible for this unnecessary damage."

Plastic pollution has been accumulating in the oceans for decades and is expected to outweigh all the fish in the sea by 2050. Much of that plastic comes from Asian countries that process American plastic waste. But surveys have found a significant percentage of the plastics contaminating Hawaii's waters originate within the state.

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EPA: Waters Around Two Hawaii Beaches Impaired by Plastic Pollution

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Center for Biological Diversity: Feds Overrule State Officials, Order Hawaii to Protect Kamilo Beach, Tern Island

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HOFA: Hawaii Organic Farmers Association

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HOFA: Hawaii Organic Farmers Association

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Deadline for getting your completed application for cost-share funding in to your FSA county office is October 31, 2020.

CHANGES for FY 2020-2023:
For Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 through 2023, FSA is revising the reimbursement amount to 50 percent of the certified organic operation's eligible expenses, up to a maximum of $500 per scope. This change is due to the limited amount of funding available and will allow a larger number of certified organic operations to receive assistance. If additional funding is authorized at a later time, FSA may provide additional assistance to certified operations that have applied, not to exceed 75% of eligible costs, up to $750 per scope.

Formerly, eligible certified organic operations could receive reimbursement of 75% of eligible costs, up to a maximum payment of $750 per scope, which is the maximum allowed by law. In FY 2019 and prior years, funds were available to cover all applications; however, the amount of funding available will not cover expected participation levels in FY 2020.

Visit USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP) home page

Read the Notice of Funds Availability (NOFA) published August 10, 2020 in the Federal Register Vol. 85, No. 154

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HOFA: Hawaii Organic Farmers Association - Hawaii Organic Farming Association

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Deadline for getting your completed application for cost-share funding in to your FSA county office is October 31, 2020. CHANGES for FY 2020-2023: For Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 through 2023, FSA is revising the reimbursement amount to 50 percent of the certified organic operation's eligible expenses, up to a maximum of $500 per scope.

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Hawaii first state to ban harmful pesticide, overriding federal decision

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Hawaii first state to ban harmful pesticide, overriding federal decision

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HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Hawaii became the first state to prohibit the use of pesticides containing the chemical chlorpyrifos on Wednesday, after Gov. David Ige signed a bill into law.

The Environmental Protection Agency prohibited most household uses of Chlorpyfiros in residential areas 18 years ago after it was found to cause severe developmental delays in children. However in March, the Trump administration opted to halt plans to completely ban the pesticide, rejecting conclusions reached by EPA scientists.

Pesticides containing the chemical are used on an array of crops including apples, corn, and wheat, among other household food items, according to Earth Justice, the largest nonprofit environmental law organization in the United States.

In addition to prohibiting use of the chemical, Senate Bill 3095 also requires anyone using restricted use pesticides, (RUPs) to report to the Department of Agriculture, and prohibits the use of RUPs on or within 100 feet of a school while class in session beginning in January 2019.

The bill also dictates that by July 1 of next year, the Department of Agriculture will develop a monitoring study to evaluate pesticide drift at three schools in Hawaii, and will submit its findings to the legislature before the 2020 session. $300,000 have been appropriated from the general revenue fund to support the study.

He also said in his testimony that he believes the bill falls short in its goal to protect children by only targeting a specific group using the pesticides.

"While the bill seeks to address the risk of agricultural pesticide drift to Hawaii's schools, it does not address the concern associated with pesticide drift from households and gardens in the adjoining neighborhoods," Enright said in the statement.

"The Department would like to note that pesticide odor complaints and concerns reported by schools have been attributed to residential use," Enright said.

The agency's action taken in 2000 eliminated most household uses, excluding ant and roach baits in child resistant packaging, and fire ant mound treatments. The agreement also phased out all termiticide uses of the chemical.

"Pesticides also waft over school communities and sicken our students, after being sprayed on windy days," Rosenlee said in her testimony.

"In 2007, for example, nearly a dozen students at Kahuku High and Intermediate fell ill when a nearby farmer ignored windy weather while applying restricted use pesticides," Rosenlee said in her statement. "In 2008, in Waimea on Kauai, dozens of students got sick after farmers applied pesticides on a nearby seed corn plot."

"Establishing buffer zones around school campuses, then, is an imperative step toward eliminating this unnecessary threat to our children's safety," Rosenlee said.

The law goes into effect in January, but businesses can request exemptions from the Department of Agriculture for up to three years in order to adjust.

"In my view passage of SB 3095 is one of the highlights of our 2018 session," said Sen. Mike Gabbard. "After many years of no action it was good for the Legislature and community to come together."

Commercial farmers previously opposed the bill, saying pesticide use is already strictly regulated and that they voluntary establish buffer zone when spraying near schools.

"To me the even bigger part of this bill is the disclosure of what's used because we can finally begin to have scientific analysis of the health effects that correlate with these chemicals," said Sen. Russell Ruderman, a co-author of the bill.

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Hawaii first state to ban harmful pesticide, overriding federal decision

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HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Hawaii became the first state to prohibit the use of pesticides containing the chemical chlorpyrifos on Wednesday, after Gov. David Ige signed a bill into law. The Environmental Protection Agency prohibited most household uses of Chlorpyfiros in residential areas 18 years ago after it was found to cause severe developmental delays in children.

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State of Hawaii, Department of Health Clean Water Branch

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State of Hawaii, Department of Health Clean Water Branch

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Polluted Runoff Control Program
Mission
The Polluted Runoff Control Program's mission is to protect and improve the quality of Hawai'i's water resources by preventing and reducing nonpoint source pollution.

In order to achieve its mission, the PRC Program updates and implements Hawai'i's Nonpoint Source Management Plan (2015-2020).

Each year, the PRC Program uses Clean Water Act Section 319(h) funds to provide grants for polluted runoff projects in Hawai'i. Please visit the 319 Grant Program page for more information.

For more information please see our PRC Viewer!
What Is Polluted Runoff?
Polluted runoff, or nonpoint source pollution, results when stormwater or irrigation water washes pollutants from the land into streams and coastal waters. When it rains, water that does not infiltrate the soil runs over the ground and carries pollutants such as sediment, nutrients (from fertilizers), bacteria (from animal waste), toxic chemicals, oil, and trash into streams, rivers, and the ocean. Polluted runoff can destroy aquatic habitats and marine life, pose public health risks, and negatively impact Hawai'i's economy and way of life, which rely heavily on water quality.

When it rains, water washes pollutants from Hawai'i's ridges to the ocean. (Kaaawa Valley, Oahu)

Polluted runoff results from our activities on the land and in the water. Sources of polluted runoff include urban areas, agriculture, and cesspools. In urban areas, roads, buildings, and parking lots often prevent rain water from soaking into the ground. This increases the volume and speed of water runoff, increases erosion, and washes pollutants through storm drains into streams and the ocean. On farms, fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, and soil erosion can lead to polluted runoff problems. Cesspools, another source of polluted runoff, discharge untreated human waste directly into the ground, where it can contaminate the ocean, streams, and groundwater by releasing nutrients and disease-causing bacteria and viruses.
Stream levels can quickly rise during torrential downpours, resulting in erosion and exposed plants roots. The sediment that is washed away is a form of polluted runoff. (Waimanalo Stream, Oahu) Watershed Planning and Polluted Runoff Control
The citizens of Hawai'i have the ability and responsibility to protect their waters from polluted runoff. The watershed planning process is one way they can become involved.

A watershed is an area of land where all of the water flows into a common body of water. Hawai'i's streams and rivers flow downhill, from the highest island ridges to the ocean, connecting the communities they flow through along the way.

A watershed-based plan is a strategy and a work plan for achieving water resource goals for a specific watershed. The watershed planning process uses a series of cooperative, iterative steps to characterize existing conditions, identify and prioritize problems, define management objectives, and develop and implement protection or remediation strategies. The PRC Program supports and coordinates watershed planning as well as total maximum daily load (TMDL) implementation activities with partner organizations.

The following document was developed to assist groups interested in developing watershed-based plans.
About the Polluted Runoff Control Program
Hawai'i's Department of Health Clean Water Branch administers the State's PRC Program. The PRC Program has evolved over the last decade under the guidance of two federal statutes:

Although these two federal statues are distinct, their environmental goals overlap. In an effort to integrate polluted runoff implementation activities under CWA and CZARA, Hawai'i established a single plan- Hawai'i's Nonpoint Source Management Plan (2015-2020). The Plan describes a combination of voluntary and regulatory activities and programs implemented by local, state and federal agencies intended to control polluted runoff and includes a five-year implementation plan.
Plans Polluted Runoff End of Fiscal Year Reports Polluted Runoff Resources

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Mission The Polluted Runoff Control Program's mission is to protect and improve the quality of Hawai'i's water resources by preventing and reducing nonpoint source pollution. In order to achieve its mission, the PRC Program updates and implements Hawai'i's Nonpoint Source Management Plan (2015-2020).

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Hawaii Boasts Some of the Best Air Quality in the Nation

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Hawaii Boasts Some of the Best Air Quality in the Nation

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The American Lung Association's 2019 "State of the Air" report found that Hawaii has some of the cleanest air in the U.S. and Honolulu and Kahului-Wailuku-Lahaina are two of the cleanest areas in the country. Honolulu County had a new record low for an annual average of particle pollution, and less than half the highest ever level recorded in 2009-2011.

Each year the "State of the Air" provides a report card on the two most widespread outdoor air pollutants, ozone pollution, also known as smog, and particle pollution, also called soot. The report analyzes particle pollution in two ways: through average annual particle pollution levels and short-term spikes in particle pollution. Both ozone and particle pollution are dangerous to public health and can increase the risk of premature death and other serious health effects such as lung cancer, asthma attacks, cardiovascular damage, and developmental and reproductive harm.

"People in Hawaii are breathing some of the cleanest air in the nation, but increasing climate change is threatening our air quality," said Kahala Howser, Executive Director for the American Lung Association in Hawaii. "While we are very happy with this report, Hawaiians must remain vigilant when we have vog episodes. Additionally, more than four in 10 Americans are living with unhealthy air, and we're heading in the wrong direction when it comes to protecting public health and people's lives."

Honolulu had no unhealthy air days for ozone pollution. Nationally, this year's report showed that ozone levels increased in most cities nationwide, in large part due to the record-breaking global heat experienced in the three years tracked in the report.

While the report examined data from 2015-2017, this 20th annual report online provides information on air pollution trends back to the first report. Learn more about Hawaii's rankings, as well as air quality across and the nation, in the 2019 "State of the Air" report at Lung.org/sota. For media interested in speaking with an expert about lung health, healthy air, and threats to air quality, contact Holly Harvey at [email protected] or 206-512-3292.
2019 Cleanest Cities Cleanest cities in the U.S (on all three categories of cleanest cities described below)

Bangor, ME

Burlington-South Burlington, VT

Honolulu, HI

Lincoln-Beatrice, NE

Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville, FL

Wilmington, NC

Cleanest for Ozone Pollution (zero unhealthy air days - all counties)

Anchorage, AK

Bellingham, WA

Casper, WY

Fairbanks, AK

Idaho Falls-Rexburg-Blackfoot, ID

Honolulu, HI

Cleanest for Short-term Particle Pollution (zero unhealthy air days - all counties)
Cleanest Cities for Year-Round Particle Pollution (twenty-five cities with the lowest annual levels)
1. Cheyenne, WY (tie)
1. Honolulu, HI (tie)
1. Kahului-Wailuku-Lahaina, HI (tie)
4. Casper, WY (tie)
4. St. George, UT (tie)
6. Elmira-Corning, NY
7. Duluth, MN-WI (tie)
7. Pueblo-Canon City, CO (tie)
9. Bismarck, ND (tie)
10. Bellingham, WA (tie)
10. Syracuse-Auburn, NY (tie)

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Hawaii Boasts Some of the Best Air Quality in the Nation According to the 'State of the Air' 2019 Report

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The American Lung Association's 2019 'State of the Air' report found that Hawaii has some of the cleanest air in the U.S. and Honolulu and Kahului-Wailuku-Lahaina are two of the cleanest areas in the country. Honolulu County had a new record low for an annual average of particle pollution, and less than half the highest ever level recorded in 2009-2011.