The Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Notice of Violation and Order (NOVO) to the Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH) for non-compliance related to its water reclamation facility at Kaneohe Bay. The violations include failing a Whole Effluent Toxicity (WET) test and not disclosing the use of sodium hypochlorite in its treatment process.
In May 2024, MCBH reported a failed WET test result, which revealed that sodium hypochlorite was regularly used in their treatment process without disclosure. This failure to report accurate permit information affects the DOH's ability to enforce proper requirements for water quality protection. As a result, MCBH is required by the NOVO to pay a $95,000 penalty and implement corrective actions to prevent future violations.
Whole Effluent Toxicity testing is an important requirement under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits. It assesses wastewater's toxic effects on aquatic life and helps evaluate treated effluent quality. While sodium hypochlorite serves as a disinfectant, it poses risks to aquatic organisms if present in excess amounts. Proper dechlorination and monitoring are necessary before discharge.
Environmental laws in Hawaiʻi mandate compliance from all parties, including businesses and government agencies, with penalties up to $60,000 per day for violations of water pollution laws.
The DOH Clean Water Branch (CWB) oversees responses to state water pollution issues. Its mission is to protect public health and maintain environmental standards by preventing discharges that impair water quality. Wastewater system operators must adhere strictly to these regulations or face legal action from state authorities, federal partners, or private citizens.
A copy of the NOVO is available online.