HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0998.009 2006-2008
Elizabeth C. Mar*aek, MS
Waimea, HI 96743
Planning Department 2098 RPR 22
" 101 Pawahi SL, Suite 3
Hilo, HI 96720-3043
April 20, 2008
8 gii Re: Support for Repeal of Ordinance No. 97 192 and Urge Rezoning TMK (3) 5-9-1:8
to Ag- 20 acres
m
r L In the interest of the marine areas downslope and offshore of the Kohala LLC Parcel,
m I want to support the Planning Director's recommendation to repeal ordinance No. 97 102
and to revoke the Special Management Area (SMA) Use Permit No. 379 for TMK (3) 5-
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a 2. My background and professional experience that is relevant to commenting or. this
proposed project include,
• Masters of Science in Marine Ecology, Moss Landing Marine Laboratories.
California State University
• Bachelors of Science in Geology, Williams College
• Conducted numerous research projects on coral reefs, groundwater, and water quality
on the West Hawaii Coast in conjunction with academic institutions and state and
federal agencies since 1992.
• Raised on the Big Island and used the Kohala Coast for ocean recreation for 38 years.
3. The nearshore marine environment fronting Honokoa Gulch has historically been a
healthy coral reef ecosystem. Until several years ago, volcanic pavement and clear, clean
water supported healthy coral cover and abundant fish and invertebrate communities. The
threatened green sea turtle (>rhelonia rrtvdas) was commonly seen in the area as well. In
2006, heavy rains washed large amounts of unconsolidated sediments down Honokoa and
nearby gulches causing large amounts of sediment to be deposited on the reef ecosystem.
Surveys before and after the event by Department of Aquatic Resources show
widespread, potentially irreversible damage to the reef. Reef systenns will have much
less chance of recovery if negative impacts continue. Minimizing future development
immediately onshore would be best for the reef.
4. The construction of residences on the Kohala LLC parcel will create the potential risk
for unconsolidated sediment to be washed ( again) onto the nearshore environment. The
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Comm. No. AA 40
Ref. To•Lreaeotea
Ref. Date APR 2 2 2008
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parcel contains steep slopes and large drainages. Soil from imported fill and site grading
could easily be washed into gulches and washed downstream onto the reef. Fine
sediments can smother coral and cause long term ecosystem effects. Fine sediments from
land-based activities have caused reef degradation throughout the State of Hawaii
including this watershed. Reducing the number of homes constructed on the Kohala LLC
parcel will reduce the chance of damage to reefs from sedimentation.
5. Contaminants from septic systems would most likely be transported by groundwater
and I or stream flow to nearshore areas causing degradation to marine ecosystems. i\$uch
of West Hawaii's coastline is known for high vohime5 of submarine groundwater
discharge. Groundwater and stream flow act as conduits for leach field contaminants
including nutrients and household toxins (cleaners, pharmaceuticals, etc). Corals and reef
organisms are known to be sensitive to elevated nutrients and household toxins.
Reducing the number of homes constructed on the Kohala LLC parcel will reduce the
chance of impacts to reefs from these compounds.
6. Construction of residences on the Kohala LLC Parcel would increase impermeable
surfaces near the coastline and, therefore, increase the risk that storm runoff camins
contaminants runs onto drainages and nearshore ecosystems. Storm runoff could include
fertilizers and pesticides used in landscaping, soil, motor oil, and asphalt compounds.
Corals and reef organisms are know to be sensitive to these contaminants.
7. Reef ecosystems have significant cultural, economic, and aesthetic value for many
people in Hawaii. The long-term trends of coral reef degradation in the State of Hawaii
along with the rapid development of West Hawaii's coastal zone necessitate caution with
any project that is proposed close to the shoreline. Reducing the number of homes
constructed on the Kohala LLC parcel will reduce the chance of unpisas to reefs from
sedimentation, elevated mJtrients, and anthropogenic toxins.
Friedlander, A., G. Aeby. E. Brown, A Clark. S. Coles. Dollar. C. Hurm, P. Jokicl, J. Smith, B.
Walsh, 1. Williams. W. Wiltse. 2005. The State of Coral Reef Ecosystems of the Main Hareaiian Islands.
Pages 222- 269. is Waddell, editor. The State of Coral Reef Ecosystems of the United States and Pacific
Freely Associated States 1o05. NOAA Technical Memorandum NOS NCCOS 11. NOAANCCOS Center
for Coasm: Monitoring and Assessments Biogeography Team, Silver Spring, MD.
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Sincerely.
j
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