LIHUE — Friends of Mahaulepu will host its second meeting in as many months on Thursday regarding Hawaii Dairy Farms’ proposed $17.5 million, 578-acre dairy in Mahaulepu Valley. “Our clear goal is to work from every angle possible to persuade
LIHUE — Friends of Mahaulepu will host its second meeting in as many months on Thursday regarding Hawaii Dairy Farms’ proposed $17.5 million, 578-acre dairy in Mahaulepu Valley.
“Our clear goal is to work from every angle possible to persuade this operation that a dairy of this size is wrong for this location,” Koloa resident and group member Bridget Hammerquist, an outspoken opponent of HDF’s plan, wrote in an email.
Last month, HDF was awarded building permits by the County of Kauai for its proposed operation. And in light of public concerns, HDF has promised to conduct a voluntary Environmental Impact Statement.
Hammerquist said the meeting will provide an opportunity for community members to learn about ways they can get involved moving forward.
Attorney Linda Paul will also be at the meeting to explain the upcoming EIS process.
Hammerquist said the Friends of Mahaulepu group wants there to be no doubts about the level of concern by residents, visitors and business. Those concerns include potential water contamination, impacts to the marine ecosystem, economic consequences and health risks. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Koloa Neighborhood Center, 3461 B Weliweli Road.
Amy Hennessey, HDF spokeswoman, said she will not be able to attend Thursday’s meeting.
“But we look forward to engaging in dialogue with the entire community throughout this voluntary EIS process to hear their comments and questions,” she wrote.
Info: friendsofmahaulepu.org
