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It is not known whether the subject or immediate surrounding area <br /> was used in the recent past for the gathering of plants by native <br /> Hawaiians. Almost, if not all of the existing vegetation on the parcel <br /> now consists of introduced plant species. Further, the Applicants has <br /> not observed any native Hawaiians on the site or adjoining properties <br /> gathering plants in recent times. Thus, it would appear unlikely that <br /> the site would serve such purpose today. <br /> The cultural impacts, if any, thus appear to be non-existent. However, <br /> in the event legitimate gathering claims are made by native <br /> Hawaiians, the Applicant intends to respect and honor such claims <br /> and provide the needed access within the site. <br /> F. Volcanic and Earthquake Hazards <br /> The United States Geological Survey (USGS) classifies the area as <br /> Lava Flow Hazard Zone 4, on a scale of ascending risk 9 to 1. The <br /> populated area of Kailua-Kona also falls in this category, while the City <br /> of Hilo is classified Zone 3. There is very little that can be done to <br /> mitigate this situation and reflects an ongoing threat to all residents <br /> and businesses in these areas. <br /> The entire island of Hawaii falls within Earthquake Zone 4, according <br /> to the County Building Code. As such, certain structural requirements <br /> have been taken during the building permit process to address this <br /> seismic hazard. In this situation, the Applicant has no plans to make <br /> further improvements to the building. In the event it does, compliance <br /> with these requirements will be addressed during the building permit <br /> process. <br /> G. Other <br /> There should be little, if at all, increase to the ambient noise levels. <br /> The activities would be domestic related. Normal farm machinery or <br /> equipment noise would be louder. Besides, as the Applicant will be <br /> living on the property, guest noise will be controlled. <br /> The air quality in this area is mostly affected by emissions from <br /> natural, agricultural, and/or vehicular sources. Vehicular traffic to and <br /> from the site should not significantly increase over the current levels. <br /> The use itself is non-noxious, and no tour buses will frequent the <br /> subject site. <br /> 12 <br />