Army seeks input on sea life gathered off Waianae

Army officials are asking Leeward Coast community members to tell them what kinds of seaweed, octopus and other species they gather from the ocean.

The Army needs the information so it will know what species to study while examining how Makua valley military activities may affect marine resources and resident health. 

A federal judge in June ordered the Army to complete studies on the impact live-fire training in the valley would have on marine resources and cultural sites before any of the training could take place. 

Community members may offer input in person tonight from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Pililaau Army Recreation Center in Waianae.

The community can provide input in person, Oct. 24, from 6:30-8:30 p.m., at the Pililaau Army Recreation Center, 85-010 Army St., Waianae. The Army will have a map and photos of limu species and other marine resources for reference.

Surveys can also be completed through Oct. 31 using one of the following methods: online at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Marine_Resources_Survey, or by phone, by calling U.S. Army Garrison-Hawaii Public Affairs at 808-656-3158/3159/3160, between 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Hard copies of the survey are available at the Waianae Small Boat Harbor http://hawaii.gov/dlnr/dbor/oahuharbors/waianaehrbr.htm and the Waianae Public Library.