Department of Environmental Services

Notification of elevated bacterial level shown in single sample of treated effluent taken at Kailua Regional WWTP

Notification of elevated bacterial level shown in single sample of treated effluent taken at Kailua Regional WWTP

HONOLULU – An elevated count of a specific type of bacteria, enterococcus, was measured in a single sample of treated effluent taken at the Kailua Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) May 31, 2024, at 8:08 a.m., which was higher than the single sample daily maximum limitation for enterococcus under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit for the Kailua Regional WWTP. 

The sample was taken at the effluent monitoring station, within the plant, before discharging at the deep ocean outfall located approximately 5,000 feet from the shoreline at a depth of 105 feet below the surface of the water.  Enterococcus analysis requires a 24-hour test.  The most recent prior single sample taken May 30, 2024, was within the normal range and within permit limitations. 

The city initiated collecting additional daily samples at the seven (7) shoreline stations located near the WWTP.  Additionally, the city will collect additional daily samples of the treated effluent at Kailua Regional WWTP, and will continue to do so until the data confirms that effluent enterococcus levels remain within the permit limit.

During this time, signs are posted to stay out of waters around the outfall.  This notification will be updated upon confirmation of the city’s additional monitoring efforts.
 

—PAU—

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