Kona Forum to Focus on Water Issues

A community forum on water issues will be held next week at the West Hawaii Civic Center.

The forum and talk-story session is being organized by state Rep. Nicole Lowen. Guest panelists include consultant Jonathan Likeke Scheuer and Quirino Antonio, head of the county Department of Water Supply.

Topics to be discussed include issues relating to the National Park Service’s request to designate the Keauhou Aquifer of North Kona as a Water Management Area for groundwater.

The park service believes the designation could provide additional protection for anchialine ponds and other water features at Kaloko-Honokahau National Historic Park.

According to a statement from House of Representatives, next week’s meeting will focus on the ramifications that might have for the community, the environment and development in the area.

The meeting is scheduled from 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 20, at the center’s Council Chambers in Building A.