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Local government

EPA Takes Enforcement Actions on Oahu and Big Island to Address Pollution-Causing Cesspools

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced enforcement actions to bring about the closure of three large-capacity cesspools (LCCs) on Oahu and the Big Island, issuing $268,000 in fines. The EPA's actions aim to address the contamination of groundwater, streams, and ocean resources caused by these pollution-causing cesspools. Under the Safe Drinking Water Act, EPA banned LCCs in 2005, citing their potential to contaminate water resources.

Key Takeaways:

  • The EPA will take enforcement actions on Oahu and the Big Island to close three LCCs, including those owned by state and local government agencies.
  • EPA Regional Administrator John Busterud stated that large-capacity cesspools can contaminate groundwater, streams, and ocean resources.
  • The EPA has identified two LCCs on the Helemano Plantation in central Oahu, which serve a restaurant, gift shop, and farm, and must be closed by the end of this year.
  • The City and County of Honolulu has agreed to pay a $135,000 penalty for the Helemano Plantation LCC.
  • Hawai'i County has agreed to pay a $133,000 fine and close the Kainaliu Comfort Station cesspool by the end of this year.
  • Since the 2005 LCC ban, more than 3,600 LCCs in Hawai'i have been closed, but many hundreds remain in operation.
  • Cesspools collect and discharge untreated raw sewage into the ground, contaminating groundwater, streams, and the ocean.
  • Groundwater provides 95% of all local water supply in Hawai'i, where cesspools are used more widely than in any other state.
  • The state of Hawai'i has passed Act 125 (2017), requiring the replacement of all cesspools by 2050.
  • There are approximately 88,000 cesspools in Hawai'i, and a state income tax credit is available for upgrading them to a septic system or aerobic treatment unit or connecting them to a sewer.

Statistics:

  • Number of LCCs closed since the 2005 ban: 3,600+
  • Number of cesspools remaining in operation: hundreds
  • Percentage of groundwater used for local water supply: 95%
  • Number of cesspools in Hawai'i: approximately 88,000
  • Fine imposed on the City and County of Honolulu: $135,000
  • Fine imposed on Hawai'i County: $133,000
  • State income tax credit for upgrading cesspools available until: December 31, 2020

Sources:

  • US Environmental Protection Agency news release
  • Safe Drinking Water Act
  • State of Hawai'i Act 125 (2017)

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