Linking wastewater and land use to coral reef health: Integrating monitoring and modeling approaches for conservation planning
This study assessed the connection between wastewater and coral health along the Puakō-Mauna Lani reef system and the broader North Kona and South Kohala coastline. The findings indicate that anthropogenic nutrients negatively affect coral condition at several sites along the West Hawai‘i coastline, suggesting they may play an equally if not more important role in reef health.
Subject Tags
- Reefs
- Coastal
Introduction
This technical report investigates the relationship between wastewater, land use, and coral reef health along the West Hawai‘i coastline, with a focus on the Puakō–Mauna Lani reef system. The study integrates multi-year monitoring, including water quality sampling, microbial source tracking, and coral health assessments, with spatial and watershed modeling approaches. Results provide clear evidence that sewage pollution and anthropogenic nutrient inputs are entering coastal waters and impacting coral reefs. Two major sewage pollution hotspots were identified near Puakō Point and Paniau. Nutrient concentrations were higher near developed and resort areas, demonstrating strong links between land use and coastal water quality. Coral health was primarily affected by algal overgrowth and growth anomalies, with up to 30–45% of colonies impacted. The findings highlight the importance of reducing land-based pollution to improve reef resilience and provide a framework for conservation planning and targeted management actions in Hawai‘i.
Suggested Citation
Couch, C., Most, R., Remple, K., Wiggins, C., Rose, J., Falinski, K., Walsh, C., Nelson, C., Conklin, E., Abaya, L.M., & Wiegner, T. 2019. Linking wastewater and land use to coral reef health: Integrating monitoring and modeling approaches for conservation planning. The Nature Conservancy. Honolulu, HI. 57 pp.
TNC Authors
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Julia Rose
Coral Restoration Program Manager
The Nature Conservancy
Email: julia.rose@tnc.org -
Kim Falinski
Coastal and Estuarine Scientist, Hawai‘i
The Nature Conservancy
Email: kim.falinski@tnc.org -
Cecile Walsh
Marine Conservation Project Manager
The Nature Conservancy
Email: cecile.walsh@tnc.org -
Eric Conklin
Marine Science Director, Hawai‘i and Palmyra
The Nature Conservancy
Email: econklin@tnc.org