10-28-2007, 06:30 AM
Given the lack of beaches and other ocean swimming opportunities in Puna, the fact that the Champagne Pond is now overused and environmentally compromised shouldn't be a big surprise. Imagine how bad it would be if the easy access were not gated or if a better road existed to the public shoreline. (Suggestion to visitors: DON'T go into the patch of woods between the raw lava and the housing area.)
I don't know what the long-term solution might be, but in the short run somebody needs to put some portapotties out there. Of course there will be disagreement as to whether the state, the county, or the community association should provide the portapotties. Given the inability of governmental entities in Hawaii to get anything done quickly, the community association might have to protect their own interests here.
Having said all that about portapotties for the non-resident beach goers, it is probably true that far more damage is done by cesspools. Retrofitting may have to be mandated, oh maybe around 2020 if the County puts it on the fast track.
Somewhat cynical, but still cheerful because I went bird watching in HVNP yesterday and it was BEAUTIFUL,
Jerry
I don't know what the long-term solution might be, but in the short run somebody needs to put some portapotties out there. Of course there will be disagreement as to whether the state, the county, or the community association should provide the portapotties. Given the inability of governmental entities in Hawaii to get anything done quickly, the community association might have to protect their own interests here.
Having said all that about portapotties for the non-resident beach goers, it is probably true that far more damage is done by cesspools. Retrofitting may have to be mandated, oh maybe around 2020 if the County puts it on the fast track.
Somewhat cynical, but still cheerful because I went bird watching in HVNP yesterday and it was BEAUTIFUL,
Jerry