The former Kekaha Sugar Mill site is slated for an environmental check-up, on Monday April 21 to May 2. Kauai's Office of Economic Development informed that contractors will be performing soil sampling, within the bounds of Lot B, which is set by Kekaha Road, Hale Lio Street, Kopaa Street, and Lot A of the Kekaha Sugar Mill. The end date of soil sampling may not be set in stone, as needs on the ground could lead to an extension.
The sampling effort comes thanks to a $300,000 Brownfields Assessment Grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the EPA's contribution to support the assessment and evaluation of potential contaminated sites dubbed "brownfields." Aloun Farms, the current property owners, have given elected officials the green light for the sampling. The investigation aims to pin down the presence of contaminants and the type of cleanup that Lot B may require. "Before we can breathe new life into a portion of the old mill site, we need to understand what’s in the soil," Nalani Brun, the Office of Economic Development Director, said as part of the County of Kauai announcement. "Sampling gives us that clarity—it helps us identify and address any harmful substances early on, ensure the right cleanup methods are used, and plan for a future that is safe for our Kekaha community."
The tools of the trade for this operation include a compact direct-push drilling rig and several small support vehicles. Locals can expect to witness some level of activity, accompanied by a bit of noise, but only for a brief stretch during the two-week timespan. For those in search of details about the goings-on or any disruptions, an online resource at the County of Kauai website.
If you're interested in the soil sampling or need support due to a disability—like interpreter services or other aids—you can contact the county's liaison, Ana Española, at 808-241-1969 or [email protected]. The county encourages making requests early to ensure they can be fulfilled. Accommodations like large print, Braille, or electronic copies are also available upon request.
