LIHU‘E — A single-day sample conducted by the Surfrider Foundation showed a high concentration of enterococcus bacteria in several locations.
LIHU‘E — A single-day sample conducted by the Surfrider Foundation showed a high concentration of enterococcus bacteria in several locations.
In an Oct. 8 test, Wailua River State Park, Hanalei River, Wainiha Stream, Moloa‘a Stream, Nawiliwili Stream and Hanama‘ulu Stream all contained bacteria levels above the threshold considered safe by the group.
“We are getting into the rainy season, meaning bacteria is continuing to wash down streams and into the ocean, which is why we see higher levels at sites where the beach meets the stream,” said Kaitlyn Jacobs of the Surfrider Foundation.
“Be sure to wash off after getting in the water, and check the Department of Health website for results of their limited sampling, as well as Surfrider’s website for more information about our Blue Water Task Force program.”
While the Environmental Protection Agency reports that enterococci bacteria are typically not considered harmful to humans, their presence in the environment may indicate that other disease-causing agents, such as viruses, bacteria and protozoa, are also present.
DOH time to take action to protect Hanamaulu stream and beach!!!