The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has announced its Final Public Notice for the Pohoiki Boat Ramp dredging project on Hawaiʻi Island. This crucial project aims to restore access to the ramp, which was blocked by volcanic debris after the 2018 Kīlauea Volcanic eruption and earthquakes.
Background: The Impact of the 2018 Kīlauea Eruption
In 2018, the Kīlauea volcanic eruption caused widespread devastation across Hawaiʻi Island. Among the affected areas was Pohoiki Bay, which became inundated with volcanic sand, cobble, and boulders. This natural disaster rendered the Pohoiki Boat Ramp, a vital resource for the local community, completely inaccessible.
Project Overview: Reconnecting Pohoiki Boat Ramp to the Ocean
The proposed dredging project aims to restore access by creating a navigable channel through the volcanic debris in Pohoiki Bay. This initiative will reconnect the landlocked ramp to the Pacific Ocean, ensuring the resumption of marine activities in the area.
Key Details of the Dredging Plan
- Volume of Material to Be Removed
Approximately 42,000 cubic yards of sediment will be removed using a combination of on-land excavation and mechanical dragline dredging. - Utilization of Dredged Material
A portion of the volcanic debris will be repurposed to fill ponds formed by the eruption in the backshore area. - Disposal of Remaining Material
The excess sediment will be transported to a designated disposal site, which includes the lava landmass covering the eastern section of the park and newly formed accretion land.
Environmental and Community Benefits
This dredging project not only restores essential access for boaters but also addresses environmental concerns by repurposing debris and preventing further sediment accumulation. The restoration of the Pohoiki Boat Ramp will revive economic and recreational opportunities for Hawaiʻi Island’s residents and visitors.
Stay Updated on the Pohoiki Boat Ramp Dredging Project
For more information about the Pohoiki Boat Ramp restoration and related updates, visit FEMA’s official website or contact local project coordinators. Stay tuned for progress updates as this essential project moves forward.