Lanikai Beach, a picturesque destination in Kailua, Hawaii, has been grappling with a persistent issue – sewage contamination. This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges faced at Lanikai Beach, the efforts to address them, and the impact on beach activities.
Brown Water Advisory and Bacteria Levels
Lanikai Beach has been plagued by high bacteria counts, particularly enterococcus, which can pose health risks to beachgoers. The Department of Health (DOH) has issued numerous brown water advisories, warning the public to stay out of the water during these periods. These advisories are typically triggered by heavy rainfall, as stormwater runoff can contribute to the elevated bacteria levels.
The DOH advises that even if the water appears clear, it may still contain harmful bacteria and debris, making it unsafe for swimming or other water activities. Visitors are encouraged to check the DOH’s website or local news sources for the latest updates on water quality and any ongoing advisories before planning their trip to Lanikai Beach.
Kailua Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant
The Kailua Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant, which serves the Lanikai Beach area, has been identified as a significant contributor to the sewage contamination issue. The plant has consistently reported high levels of enterococcus in its treated sewage, leading to frequent beach closures and advisories.
To address this problem, the city has allocated $11 million to upgrade the treatment plant, including the addition of a UV disinfection system. This upgrade is expected to significantly reduce bacteria levels and limit the number of beach closures by the end of 2025.
Impact on Beach Activities
During the brown water advisories, it is not recommended to swim or engage in water activities at Lanikai Beach. However, visitors can still enjoy the beach by staying on the sand, as the advisory primarily concerns the water quality.
For those seeking alternative beach options, Kalama Beach, located nearby, is a popular choice. Kalama Beach offers better amenities, such as parking and restrooms, making it a more convenient option during Lanikai Beach’s advisory periods.
Timings and Updates
It is crucial for visitors to stay informed about the water quality and any ongoing advisories at Lanikai Beach. The DOH and the City and County of Honolulu provide regular updates on their respective websites, as well as through local news sources.
Beachgoers are advised to check these sources before planning their visit to Lanikai Beach, as the advisory status can change quickly, especially after heavy rainfall.
Cost and Budget
The upgrade to the Kailua Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant, including the installation of the UV disinfection system, is projected to cost $11 million. This investment is part of the city’s budget and is aimed at addressing the persistent sewage contamination issue at Lanikai Beach.
Conclusion
Lanikai Beach’s sewage contamination problem is a complex issue that has impacted the beach’s water quality and recreational activities. The ongoing efforts to upgrade the Kailua Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant are a step in the right direction, but it will take time for the improvements to take effect.
In the meantime, visitors to Lanikai Beach should stay informed about the water quality and any advisories, and be prepared to adjust their plans accordingly. By staying vigilant and following the guidance of the DOH and local authorities, beachgoers can still enjoy the natural beauty of Lanikai Beach while prioritizing their health and safety.
References:
- https://www.reddit.com/r/VisitingHawaii/comments/1cb8qsz/brown_water_advisory_warning_at_lanikai/
- https://spectrumlocalnews.com/hi/hawaii/public-safety/2024/05/24/kailua-bay-fecal-bacteria-detected-update-
- https://www.civilbeat.org/2023/05/this-shouldnt-happen-state-says-city-downplayed-public-health-risks-from-kailua-sewage/
- https://www.civilbeat.org/2024/03/upgrade-at-kailua-wastewater-plant-is-expected-to-curb-bacteria-and-limit-beach-closures/
- https://spectrumlocalnews.com/hi/hawaii/public-safety/2024/05/16/kailua-bay-fecal-bacteria-detected.