MAHAULEPU — The deadline for commenting on the latest paperwork from Hawaii Dairy Farms and their plan to establish a 699-cow dairy in the Mahaulepu Valley is a little more than a week away. July 25 is the last day
MAHAULEPU — The deadline for commenting on the latest paperwork from Hawaii Dairy Farms and their plan to establish a 699-cow dairy in the Mahaulepu Valley is a little more than a week away.
July 25 is the last day to submit comments on the 2,600-page draft environmental impact statement, which outlines anticipated effects of the 577-acre dairy.
The Draft EIS shows analysis for both the committed herd size of up to 699 mature milking cows, as well as the full potential of the farm of up to 2,000 mature milking cows.
Findings of the DEIS state the dairy will improve soil quality and protect water resources, provide a jolt to the economy, will not affect culturally significant resources, won’t negatively impact home values and resort areas, and treat cows with a high standard of care.
Opponents of the dairy, however, maintain the DEIS is obscure and lacks specifics. One of the main concerns is the effect the dairy will have on soil and water quality.
The daily would be on 557 acres. It is expected to produce roughly 1.5 million gallons of fresh milk per year, create 11 full-time jobs, and provide 36 construction jobs, as well as opportunities for local suppliers for supporting farm operations.
All comments must be submitted in writing to HDF@Group70int.com, or mailed either to Group 70 International or DOH in order to be included in the formal review process.
Directions for comment and mailing addresses, as well as a full copy of the DEIS, are available at hawaiidairyfarms.com.
Hard copies of the DEIS have been sent to all the public libraries in Kauai.
