HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0377.504 2024-2026From:
Beckett Fossel
Sent:
Friday, August 29, 2025 10:15 AM
To:
Council Testimony
Subject:
Support Res. 234-25
Aloha Committee Members, I strongly support this resolution. United States Military training at
Pohakuloa has already caused serious harm in the past 65 years: burning nearly 20,000 acres,
contaminating the land within, and threatening endangered species. Beneath this area lies a major
aquifer that supplies fresh water to Hawai'i Island, and the military's track record shows they are not
equipped to protect it (only 2 inspections have been performed, out of the 25 that were supposed to be).
There is also serious concern about depleted uranium, heavy metals and aluminum. Along with
other toxins such as: barium, strontium, lead, chromium, and antimony, which can become airborne
during exercises and has known health risks. Pohakuloa is a wahi pana- a sacred place with deep
cultural and ecological significance. Continued military use is incompatible with its conservation status
(and protection of native species such as the palila), and the values of aloha 'sina. Please support this
resolution to protect the land, water, and people of Hawai'i.-Mahalo, Beckett Fossel, Volcano
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