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WRRC 2024 Fall Seminar

Envisioning Healthy Coastal Ecosystems and Communities: Puʻuloa as a Case Study

by Dr. Eileen Nalley

Puʻuloa encompasses a large estuary area on the island of Oʻahu in Hawaiʻi and has been historically known for its abundant streams and rich fisheries. The area has undergone many transitions, however, and has received runoff from intensive agriculture, industrial development, and significant militarization, including the development of U.S. Naval Station Pearl Harbor, a Superfund site. Through a series of studies, we have been working to better understand the impacts of these land use changes and support communities in their efforts to restore ecosystems and envision an abundant future for the area. Specifically, we have (1) directly measured contaminant concentrations in the sediment, fish, and crabs of Waikele and Honouliuli streams in Kaihuopalaʻai (West Loch); (2) examined land use transitions in the area by translating historic maps dating back to the 1800s into ArcGIS; (3) developed a database of reported contamination sites in the Puʻuloa area and the associated human health risks; (4) interviewed community leaders to better understand their vision for the future; and (5) created a series of interactive and publicly available tools to support future environmental justice work in the area. Our hope is that through this work we can help Puʻuloa to continue moving forward towards a future of abundant fisheries, vibrant agriculture, and healthy communities.

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