Killing proposed to help seals

Federal authorities are proposing to euthanize two adult male Hawaiian monk seals at Kure Atoll to protect pups there and stop the critically endangered species’ population from declining further.

One of the two seals attacked pups in previous years but became more aggressive this year. The other began attacking pups this year. The Hawaiian monk seal population numbers about 1,100 and is declining about 4 percent per year. Scientists say the species could disappear in 50 to 100 years if the trend is not reversed.

The Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument said Friday in a release that not doing anything about these seals could lead to more young female seals being injured or killed, preventing them from reproducing. The adult males could be put down in the next few days.

Utilities commissioner to resign

Public Utilities Commissioner Carlito P. Caliboso has submitted a letter of resignation effective Aug. 31, the commission announced Friday afternoon.

Caliboso, an attorney, has served on the commission for more than eight years and plans to return to the private sector.

"I will explore any opportunities in the legal and business communities here and elsewhere," Caliboso said in the release.

Caliboso was appointed by Gov. Linda Lingle in 2003, when she also named him chairman. In March, Hermina Morita was confirmed as a commissioner and designated chairwoman by Gov. Neil Abercrombie.

Wild donkeys sent to California

In an effort to control Hawaii island’s wild donkey population, about 100 of them are being taken to California.

KITV reports the Humane Society of the United States is planning to take the donkeys on a chartered plane next month.

Hawaii spokeswoman Inga Gibson says they will go to animal sanctuaries.

Drought conditions led the donkeys from the highlands into Waikoloa Village in search of water. Donkeys were appearing near the highway and a school.

NEIGHBOR ISLANDS

Nuclear agency cites violations at Army sites

HILO » The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has issued a violation notice in connection with its investigation of depleted uranium at Army sites on Hawaii island and Oahu.

West Hawaii Today reported Friday the notice says a Security Level III violation occurred. But the agency says the Army is to be credited for notifying the NRC about contamination at Pohakuloa Training Area and Schofield Barracks.

NRC spokesman Scott Burnell said the Army provided adequate information for the violation and that corrective action has been taken.

The NRC said the Army might be subject to increased inspection efforts.

In September the Army completed a health risk assessment that found "no likely adverse impacts" to people working, visiting or living near the training area.