Bronte Wells
The community of Keaukaha, located on the easternmost end of Hilo Bay, has been facing increasing tourism over the past decade, leading to concerns about overtourism and its impact on the environment. One of the most pressing issues is the pollution of Keaukaha's coastal waters and coral reefs by sewage from onsite sewage disposal systems and the Hilo Wastewater Treatment Plant. Studies have confirmed sewage indicators and high bacterial counts in the water, with residents worried about waterborne infections like MRSA. Additionally, the increase in tourism has resulted in traffic congestion, with residents competing with tour buses and rental cars for limited parking spaces. These issues have led to frustration among residents, who are calling for changes to address the environmental and social impacts of tourism in their community.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Pollution Type | Sewage |
| Source of Sewage | Onsite sewage disposal systems (OSDS) and the Hilo Wastewater Treatment Plant (HWTP) |
| Impact | Waterborne infections, e.g. MRSA |
| Impact on Wildlife | Sewage presence in coastal waters and coral reefs |
| Impact on Tourism | Overtourism, traffic congestion, inadequate parking, and bathroom facilities |
| Community Action | Collecting data to inform county council members |
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What You'll Learn
Sewage pollution in coastal waters
Sewage pollution is a pressing issue in Keaukaha, a Hilo neighbourhood in Hawai'i, with its coastal waters and coral reefs suffering the consequences. A study by the University of Hawai'i at Hilo (UH Hilo) has confirmed the presence of sewage in these waters, highlighting the need for urgent action to protect the environment and the health of the community.
The study utilised various methods, including dye tracer tests, water quality measurements, and stable isotope mixing models, to assess the impact of onsite sewage disposal systems (OSDS) and the Hilo Wastewater Treatment Plant (HWTP) on the coastal ecosystem. Results indicated that sewage from OSDS reached the shoreline within 20 hours to three days, a faster travel time than previously reported in other areas of Hawai'i. This rapid flow poses a significant threat to the environment and the people of Keaukaha, who utilise the shoreline for recreation, fishing, and cultural practices.
Fecal indicator bacteria and nutrient concentration measurements were found to be relatively low along the Keaukaha shoreline compared to other sewage-impacted areas. However, the presence of sewage pollution cannot be ignored, especially considering the community's concerns about waterborne infections, such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The study's authors recommend elevating the priority of OSDS removal and relocating the HWTP outfall to a less culturally and ecologically sensitive area.
The situation in Keaukaha is exacerbated by the presence of numerous cesspools within 1 kilometre of the shoreline. Groundwater discharges along this coast, increasing the likelihood of untreated sewage reaching the water. This has led to the suggestion that the Hilo region, including Keaukaha, should become a Priority 1 area for cesspool conversion, ensuring the protection of both human health and the delicate coastal ecosystem.
It is important to address sewage pollution in coastal waters, as it poses environmental and public health risks. The study conducted by UH Hilo sheds light on the issue in Keaukaha, highlighting the need for effective wastewater management and the protection of Hawai'i's fragile marine environment.
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Traffic congestion
The impact of tourism on traffic congestion in Keaukaha is a growing concern for residents. The community, once a quiet and predominantly Hawaiian Homestead area, has experienced a steady increase in tourist incursions over the past decade. This influx of visitors is attributed to various factors, including the marketing of the region as a tourist destination, the expansion of Hilo Harbor, and the influence of social media and geotagging, which have led tourists to discover and flock to previously unknown locales.
The traffic congestion resulting from tourism has significant implications for the residents of Keaukaha. Firstly, it poses a safety risk as the community is located in a tsunami inundation zone. The limited access road could hinder timely evacuation in the event of a tsunami or other emergency. Additionally, the inadequate parking situation caused by tourists monopolizing parking stalls further aggravates the congestion and inconveniences residents, particularly those wishing to visit the beach parks, which are not designed to accommodate high volumes of visitors.
The issue of traffic congestion in Keaukaha highlights the broader challenges faced by communities struggling to balance the economic benefits of tourism with the preservation of their local way of life. While tourism can bring economic development and opportunities, it also strains infrastructure and can lead to environmental and cultural degradation. In the case of Keaukaha, the community is taking steps to address these challenges by informally collecting data and developing mechanisms to make informed recommendations to county council members regarding tourism management.
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Encroachment of tourism
Keaukaha, a Hawaiian community, has witnessed a growing influx of tourism over the past decade, leading to concerns about the impact on the region's environment and local residents. The primary allure of Keaukaha's beaches has resulted in extreme overcrowding, especially during weekdays, as tourists flock to experience the beauty of this once-quiet area. The proximity of Keaukaha to the Port of Hilo, the only port in East Hawaii, further exacerbates the issue, with cruise ships and cargo vessels contributing to the influx of visitors.
The surge in tourism has resulted in significant traffic congestion, with residents facing daily challenges to enter and exit their community due to the constant presence of tour buses, vans, and rental cars. This congestion is particularly concerning given Keaukaha's location in a tsunami inundation zone. The inadequate parking facilities and insufficient bathroom amenities further add to the challenges faced by residents.
The environmental impact of tourism in Keaukaha extends beyond congestion and infrastructure strain. The development of hotels and resorts has led to deforestation and habitat loss, threatening the diverse ecosystems that Hawaii is known for. Pollution from tourist activities, including sewage pollution, has damaged coral reefs and marine life, affecting both the environment and the local culture, as fishing is an integral part of Native Hawaiian traditions.
To address these issues, initiatives such as the Keaukaha Steward Pilot Program and the Community Cultural-Based Education Program have been implemented. These programs aim to empower residents, promote sustainable tourism, and preserve the natural and cultural resources of the Keaukaha area. By investing in community-based programs and enhancing the quality of life for residents, these initiatives strive to strike a balance between economic benefits and the preservation of Keaukaha's cherished destinations.
While tourism brings economic benefits, the encroachment of tourism in Keaukaha has highlighted the importance of sustainable practices and equitable distribution of wealth. By embracing responsible tourism, implementing effective policies, and fostering community engagement, it is possible to mitigate the negative impacts and create a harmonious relationship between visitors and the local community.
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Waterborne infections
Keaukaha is a neighbourhood in Hilo, with fringing reefs and beautiful ocean views. However, the area is facing significant challenges due to sewage pollution, which is impacting the health of both the residents and the ecosystem. A study by the University of Hawai'i at Hilo (UH Hilo) has confirmed the presence of sewage in the coastal waters and coral reefs of Keaukaha. The study found that sewage from onsite sewage disposal systems (OSDS) in the area reaches the shorelines within 20 hours to three days, which is a faster travel time than previously reported in other areas of Hawai'i.
The UH Hilo research team used dye tracer tests, water quality measurements, and other scientific methods to assess the impact of OSDS and the Hilo Wastewater Treatment Plant (HWTP) on the coastal waters. They found that the HWTP outfall and nearby reefs showed indicators of sewage, with higher levels of fecal indicator bacteria and nutrient concentrations than in the HWTP outfall plume. These findings suggest that the Hilo region, including Keaukaha, should be a Priority 1 area for cesspool conversion to prevent sewage pollution and reduce the risk of waterborne infections.
The people of Keaukaha are rightfully concerned about the impact of sewage pollution on their health and the environment. Waterborne infections, such as MRSA, can have serious consequences, and it is essential to address this issue urgently. The UH Hilo study provides valuable evidence to support the need for immediate action to protect the community and the fragile ecosystem of Keaukaha.
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Beach park exploitation
The beach park is known for its unique natural features, including a coastline formed from hardened lava, providing a rich habitat for marine life. The park offers attractions such as snorkelling, exploring tidal pools, and enjoying the exotic trees, ponds, and Japanese-style bridges and statues. However, the influx of tourists has resulted in issues such as increased traffic congestion, inadequate parking, and concerns about sewage pollution.
The impact of tourism on the beach park has been exacerbated by its location. Keaukaha is situated at the easternmost end of Hilo Bay, accessible only by a narrow two-lane coastal road. This "out-of-the-way" location previously kept the community relatively untouched by tourism. However, with the rise of social media and geotagging, tourists are now discovering and flocking to this once-quiet area. On "ship days", the number of visitors can range from 400 to 800, and this number is expected to grow with the expansion of Hilo Harbor.
The increase in tourism has led to concerns about the strain on local infrastructure and the environment. Residents face challenges in their daily commute due to the competition with tour buses, vans, and rental cars on the roads. Additionally, the beach parks in Keaukaha were not designed to accommodate large numbers of visitors, resulting in inadequate parking and bathroom facilities. This has made it difficult for locals to access the beach, disrupting their traditional use of the space.
Furthermore, sewage pollution has become a pressing issue in Keaukaha. Studies have confirmed the presence of sewage in the coastal waters and coral reefs, with onsite sewage disposal systems and the Hilo Wastewater Treatment Plant impacting the area. This has raised concerns about waterborne infections, particularly MRSA, and the potential health risks for both the community and the ecosystem. The community has expressed worries about the number of waterborne infections, and there is a sense of urgency to address this environmental and health threat.
To address these issues, some residents are collecting data and developing recommendations for county council members. They advocate for more control over tourism management, including decisions on visitor numbers, destinations, and activities. By taking a proactive approach, the community of Keaukaha hopes to strike a balance between sharing their beautiful beach park with visitors and preserving their local way of life.
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Frequently asked questions
Keaukaha, a Hilo neighbourhood in Hawaii, is polluted by sewage from onsite sewage disposal systems (OSDS) and the Hilo Wastewater Treatment Plant (HWTP).
A tremendous amount of groundwater discharge along the coast means that untreated sewage quickly reaches the water.
Sewage indicators and dye tracer tests found that sewage reached the shoreline within 20 hours to 3 days.
The people of Keaukaha are concerned about the number of waterborne infections in their community, particularly MRSA, which is likely related to sewage pollution.
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