News from October 2024
Mokulua Nui shoreline access restored; visitors reminded of wildlife viewing guidelines
By Big Island Times | Oct 2, 2024
The monk seal pup, named Kaʻiwa by students at the Kaʻōhao Public Charter School in Kailua, has weaned from its mother and is now venturing out to sea independently. As Kaʻiwa or other monk seals may return to Mokulua Nui or nearby coastlines, residents and visitors are advised to observe monk seals and other native wildlife from a safe distance. The National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) suggests using the “rule of thumb” for determining a safe distance: extend your arm with a thumbs-up gesture parallel to the ground. If your thumb covers the entire...
Wahiawā lake event offers free boat rides with registration
By Big Island Times | Oct 2, 2024
The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) has announced that the "Day at the Lake" event will take place on October 5, 2024. Participants can enjoy boat rides at no cost, but these are available on a first-come, first-served basis. On-site registration and waivers are mandatory for all boat riders.
Hawai‘i declares October as "Stop the Ant Month" against invasive ant species
By Big Island Times | Oct 1, 2024
The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) has declared October as "Stop the Ant Month," focusing on detecting and controlling invasive ant species in Hawai‘i. DLNR Chair Dawn Chang, who also co-chairs the interagency Hawai‘i Invasive Species Council (HISC), emphasized the significance of this initiative.
DHHL launches first-ever in-house permitting process
By Big Island Times | Oct 1, 2024
Department of Hawaiian Home Lands Director Kali Watson has signed the program’s first in-house building permit for the Yorktown transitional housing project on September 30, 2024. This marks a significant step for DHHL, aimed at accelerating housing construction and reducing waitlists.
Community climate fair scheduled at Ka Makana Ali’i Shopping Center
By Big Island Times | Oct 1, 2024
The fair will provide networking opportunities for participants in beach clean-up events, native reforestation opportunities, and other volunteer initiatives. Attendees can also become champions for the environment by giving feedback on the state’s Climate Action Pathways.
Fourth quarter Hawaiʻi annual business reports due by December 31
By Big Island Times | Oct 1, 2024
Businesses registered in the fourth quarter (October through December) can now file their annual reports online at https://hbe.ehawaii.gov/annuals. Reports due in the fourth quarter must be filed by midnight (HST) on December 31, 2024, to avoid a late filing penalty fee.