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Water Quality Advisories - Ala Wai canal

Last updated on 
Water Quality Advisories - Ala Wai canal
Photo by Nico Smit / Unsplash

Stay Safe on the Water: Monitoring Ala Wai Water Quality Advisories

Aloha Lokahi Canoe Club ʻOhana,

As we gear up for another exciting paddling season, it's crucial to prioritize our health and safety, especially when paddling on the Ala Wai Canal. We all know and love the Ala Wai, but it's essential to be aware of potential water quality issues and stay informed about any advisories.

Why Water Quality Matters:

The Ala Wai Canal, while a beautiful and convenient paddling location, can be affected by various factors that impact water quality. These include:

  • Rainfall Runoff: Heavy rainfall can wash pollutants, including bacteria and debris, into the canal.
  • Sewage Spills: Although less frequent, sewage spills can significantly degrade water quality.
  • Debris and Contaminants: General debris and other contaminants can also affect the canal's water.

Exposure to contaminated water can lead to various health issues, including skin infections, gastrointestinal problems, and other illnesses.

How to Stay Informed:

To ensure your safety, we strongly encourage all Lokahi Canoe Club paddlers to regularly check for water quality advisories before heading out on the water. Here are the key resources:

  • Hawaii State Department of Health (DOH) Clean Water Branch:
    • This is the primary source for official water quality advisories.
    • You can find updates and information on their website, which includes postings about beach advisories, which sometimes include the Ala Wai.
    • Search for “Hawaii DOH Clean Water Branch” to find the most up to date information.
  • Social Media:
    • Sometimes the DOH or other organizations will post updates on social media platforms.
    • Check local news outlets online as they also report on water quality advisories.
  • Local News:
    • Local news stations and online news sources often report on water quality issues.

Practical Tips for Paddlers:

  • Check Before You Paddle: Make it a habit to check for advisories before each paddling session.
  • Avoid Paddling After Heavy Rain: It's best to avoid paddling in the Ala Wai immediately after heavy rainfall, as runoff can significantly impact water quality.
  • Practice Good Hygiene:
    • Wash your hands thoroughly after paddling.
    • Shower as soon as possible after paddling.
    • Avoid touching your face while on the water.
    • Rinse your canoe and paddles thoroughly after each use.
  • Be Aware of Your Surroundings: If you notice any unusual odors, discoloration, or debris in the water, avoid paddling in that area.
  • If you feel sick: If you feel ill after paddling, seek medical attention and inform your doctor about your exposure to the Ala Wai.

Let's Work Together:

By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, we can continue to enjoy paddling on the Ala Wai safely. Let's work together to protect our health and the health of our beloved paddling grounds.

Mahalo for your cooperation and commitment to safety!

See you on the water (safely!),

The Lokahi Canoe Club ʻOhana