The Army is asking for specific input on the types and location of seaweed, octopus, sea cucumber and other non-fish/non-shellfish species that people eat or use. The information will help the Army identify, find and test these marine species as part of a marine resources study.
The study will determine whether military activities at Makua Military Reservation have contributed or will contribute to any contamination of the marine resources near Makua and whether the proposed Army training activities at MMR pose a health risk to area residents who rely on these marine resources for food or other purposes.
"We have received several community surveys in the past three weeks," said Michelle Mansker, Environmental Division, USAG-HI, "but in order to ensure the most accurate and thorough study, we would love to receive more. The community’s involvement is invaluable, and we encourage them to be a part of this study."
The community can provide input in person, Oct. 24, from 6:30-8:30 p.m., at the Pililaau Army Recreation Center, 85-010 Army St., Waianae. The Army will have a map and photos of limu species and other marine resources for reference.
Surveys can also be completed through Oct. 31 using one of the following methods: online at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Marine_Resources_Survey, or by phone, by calling U.S. Army Garrison-Hawaii Public Affairs at 808-656-3158/3159/3160, between 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Hard copies of the survey are available at the Waianae Small Boat Harbor and the Waianae Public Library.
The survey is the first part of the marine resources study, which also includes drafting a sampling and analysis plan, species sampling in the ocean, and analysis of the samples. The public will have several opportunities to review study documents and provide additional input throughout this process.
The marine resources study was ordered by the Federal District Court June 21, 2012.
The Army appreciates the community’s interest and involvement in this study.
See the original article at: KHON2 Developing Stories
