DOH fines Big Island Dairy for water pollution violations.
The state health department has issued a notice of violation to Big Island Dairy for the unlawful discharge of wastewater from the dairy’s animal feedlot operations in O’okala on the Big Island.
DOH has ordered Big Island Dairy to immediately cease discharging wastewater, pay a penalty of $25,000 and take corrective actions to prevent future unlawful discharges in state waters.
“Big Island Dairy will immediately cease illegal discharges and pay a penalty fee for violating environmental laws,” said Keith Kawaoka, DOH deputy director of Environmental Health.
“Food production and environmental protection are not competing interests, and through this enforcement action and future permitting efforts, DOH will seek mutually beneficial results for the dairy, O’okala community, and greater State of Hawaii.” On March 28 and 29, the DOH conducted an inspection of the dairy and Kaohaoha Gulch based on information provided by community leaders.
During the inspection, DOH found clear evidence of an unlawful discharge of wastewater from the dairy’s field irrigation practices.
The discharge was composed of animal wastewater, biosolids and dirt.
Big Island Dairy, LLC may contest the Notice of Violation and Order and has 20 days to request a hearing.