MAHAULEPU — The state is looking into a mysterious, tar-like substance reported in the tidepools on the eastern side of Mahaulepu. In mid-July, community members noticed the black substance in the pools where the ridgeline meets the ocean and alerted
MAHAULEPU — The state is looking into a mysterious, tar-like substance reported in the tidepools on the eastern side of Mahaulepu.
In mid-July, community members noticed the black substance in the pools where the ridgeline meets the ocean and alerted the state Department of Health.
“(The DOH) assured us that they would try to find the source,” said Mary Muhall of Kapaa.
Now, the DOH hazard evaluation and emergency response office is investigating the source and is working with Pacific Environmental Corporation to develop a formal sampling plan to identify the substance.
“This will allow us to determine how to most effectively handle its removal to best protect our natural resources and public health,” said Terry Corpus, environmental health specialist and on-scene coordinator for DOH HEER.
No restrictions or warnings have been issued in relation to the mysterious substance.
“We expect the final sampling plan to be completed by the end of this week and plan to send a sampling team to the pollution site next week,” Corpus said.
