AGP Executive Report

Hawaiʻi Climate & Resilience: Polynesian Voyaging Society leaders say the Moananuiākea Voyage sail plan is being adjusted as El Niño concerns and possible storm activity rise, with a revised departure from Aotearoa in late August and stops in Tonga, Samoa, and Fiji. Volcano Watch: USGS reports Kīlauea’s June 1 summit eruption fountaining episode set a new record for the volcano, with a lava fountain reaching at least 500 feet. Ocean & Public Health: A new report warns that warmer coastal waters can increase risk from Vibrio vulnificus, a reminder for Hawaiʻi beachgoers and shellfish lovers as ocean temperatures shift. State Parks & Visitor Impacts: Waiʻānapanapa State Park on Maui begins construction June 6 for a new comfort station and Honokalani Road resurfacing, with road and parking closures during the work. Local Food & Farms: Ahualoa Family Farms highlights community- and sustainability-led macadamia growth, working with 70+ growers across Hawaiʻi Island. Land Use & Flood Aftermath: North Shore farmers say cleanup from March Kona-low storms is leaving them behind, with mud and debris still covering private ag land. Community Health Funding: Hawaiʻi was selected for the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic Medicaid Demonstration Program, aiming to expand mental health and substance use treatment access. Energy Independence: A new piece looks at how Hawaii’s push for renewable power and decarbonizing transport is driven by energy self-reliance. Cycling & Waste Habits: A letter urges simple reuse habits ahead of World Environment Day and World Ocean Day.

Behavioral Health Funding: Hawaiʻi was selected for the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) Medicaid Demonstration Program, aiming to expand mental health and substance use treatment with sustainable federal support via DOH and Med-QUEST. Volcano Watch: USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reported Kīlauea’s summit eruption fountaining episode 48, setting a new record for the number of lava-fountain episodes at the volcano, with lava reaching at least 500 feet. Housing & Affordability: A look at Honolulu’s “disappearing affordable condos” highlights how deferred maintenance and rising fees can turn buildings into financial traps for residents. Tropics & Coral Risk: Tropical Storm Amanda formed in the eastern Pacific with no immediate threat to Hawaiʻi, while NOAA warns El Niño could raise the odds of widespread coral bleaching in the northern Pacific, including Hawaiʻi. Local Home Repair Support: Honolulu’s Down Payment Loan and Rehabilitation Loan programs are being promoted to help eligible Oʻahu households buy homes or fund critical repairs.

Coral Reef Warning: NOAA says El Niño could drive another round of widespread coral bleaching this summer, including in Hawaii’s northern Pacific reefs—another hit after last year’s event. Storm Recovery & Climate Links: After Super Typhoon Sinlaku, Pacific Islanders are still rebuilding; officials report thousands displaced and deaths rising, with scientists pointing to warmer-than-average seas made far more likely by climate change. Pacific Weather Watch: Tropical Storm Amanda formed as the Pacific season begins, currently no land threat but expected to strengthen then weaken. Hawaiʻi Education Pipeline: UH is expanding Hoapili Teacher Pathways statewide across all 10 campuses with tuition-free, online routes to elementary teacher licensure to help ease Hawaiʻi’s teacher shortage. Local Conservation Funding: Hawaiʻi County advanced a bill to double the share of property taxes going to the PONC Maintenance Fund (and remove an accrual limit), supporting habitat restoration and public access. Public Health Access: Hawaiʻi opened applications for new provisional mental health licenses starting July 1, aimed at expanding supervised care and improving insurance reimbursement access. Bike-Share Strain: Honolulu’s Biki fleet has fallen to 478 bikes—down from about 1,300—making the system unreliable for riders.

Mental Health Access: Hawaiʻi opened applications for new provisional licenses for associate psychologists, marriage and family therapists, and mental health counselors, effective July 1, aiming to expand care while keeping clinical supervision and public protection. Teacher Pipeline: UH is scaling its tuition-free Hoapili Teacher Pathways program statewide across all 10 campuses to grow the elementary teacher workforce. Food Innovation in Hawaiʻi: DBEDT will host the 4th Hawaiʻi Made Conference (June 23) focused on turning local food ideas into market-ready products through the Food and Product Innovation Network. Water & Wastewater Resilience: Hawaiʻi Community College and UH Maui College launched a certificate program to train cesspool conversion and onsite wastewater treatment specialists as storms highlight risks from failing infrastructure. Climate Risk Planning (Oʻahu): A Waiʻanae Readiness Review kick-off launched a year-long effort to map wildfire and flood hazards with community partners. Public Health Threat Watch: Orange County officials reported the first West Nile virus–positive mosquitoes of the year, urging bite precautions. Native Hawaiian Health & Climate Justice: UH Mānoa associate professor Mapuana Antonio received national APHA awards for work integrating Indigenous knowledge into health equity and climate justice.

Hawaiʻi Infrastructure & Water Safety: A new Hawaiʻi Community College/UH Maui College certificate program is training “cesspool conversion” specialists as the state’s cesspool ban targets full removal by 2050, with 83,000 cesspools still threatening floodwaters, beaches, streams, and drinking water. Disaster Response: A magnitude 6.0 earthquake hit Kona’s coffee farms, damaging water catchment tanks that many rural residents rely on, with demand already spiking for replacement systems. Climate Science in Courts: AG William Tong led a coalition urging the Federal Judicial Center to reverse its removal of a peer-reviewed climate science reference guide from a judicial manual. El Niño & Storm Outlook: Reports say a developing El Niño is showing early atmospheric effects, with possible impacts on Pacific hurricanes and North American monsoons. Local Housing Resilience: Hawaiʻi Off Grid has started construction on Maui’s first mass-timber Habitat for Humanity “Bunkhouse,” aiming for faster, termite-treatable, prefabricated rebuilding. Marine Life & Community: A student spotlight highlights young marine biology ambitions and hands-on ocean conservation work, reflecting growing interest in protecting Hawaiʻi’s waters and species.

Hawaiʻi Volcano Watch: Kīlauea’s Episode 48 officially began early Monday with lava fountains topping about 650 feet and an ashfall advisory for East Hawaiʻi, prompting residents to mask up, close windows, and protect water catchments. Pacific Storm Setup: The National Hurricane Center is tracking two possible tropical systems that could develop in the eastern Pacific, with one given a 90% chance of tropical depression formation within a week—an early reminder that Central Pacific impacts can start far from Hawaiʻi’s shores. Inland Hurricane Warnings: NOAA and the National Hurricane Center are expanding the hurricane forecast cone to include inland watches and warnings, aiming to make wind risks clearer for communities that often assume danger stays near the coast. Moana Pasifika Rescue Bid: A new proposal could relocate the Super Rugby franchise to Hawaiʻi, adding another potential sports-and-community storyline for the islands as the team’s future remains uncertain. Hawaiʻi Fisheries Management: The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee meets in Honolulu June 2–4 to review bottomfish science and other fisheries data affecting Hawaiʻi and neighboring island jurisdictions. Wildlife & Water Quality: A Hawaii-related reminder of environmental stakes: a separate report highlights how untreated or mishandled impacts can trigger major die-offs elsewhere, underscoring why monitoring and enforcement matter. Coastal Tourism Spotlight: Poʻipū Beach on Kauaʻi was named the top U.S. beach for 2026 by Dr. Beach, keeping Hawaiʻi’s shoreline conservation and management in the spotlight.

El Niño & Storm Outlook: NOAA says a developing El Niño is nudging toward a milder Atlantic hurricane season, with a 55% chance of below-normal activity—still a reminder that “quieter” doesn’t mean “safe.” Voyaging in a Warming Ocean: Hōkūleʻa and Hikianalia are adjusting their Moananuiākea Voyage routes due to possible El Niño conditions, with plans to revisit stops across the Pacific and keep reviewing forecasts. Oʻahu Aquarium Fishing Fight: A group is seeking to restart aquarium fish collecting on Oʻahu after a statewide ban and a bill failure; the Hawaii Fishers Association is moving through an environmental review process, reigniting conservation and Native Hawaiian concerns. Kauaʻi Landfill Crunch: Kauaʻi’s only permitted landfill in Kekaha could fill in four years, pushing a proposed expansion as the island weighs how to manage waste without a new landfill for a decade. Coral Reef Stress in the Pacific: A new study from French Polynesia finds dead corals can stay “scaffolded” by algae, blocking reef recovery—another sign climate pressures can disrupt nature’s rebuilding cycle. Mosquito Release Debate: Google’s parent company is seeking federal approval to release 32 million mosquitoes in California and Florida, raising ethical questions even as it aims to curb virus-spreading species. Local Funding & Access: Hawaiʻi lawmakers are increasing grants-in-aid for nonprofits, while a push grows for better ASL interpreter training capacity at UH Mānoa to address statewide shortages.

Climate & Storm Watch: Forecasters say El Niño conditions could reshape the Pacific-wide plans of Hōkūleʻa and Hikianalia, while the National Hurricane Center is tracking possible Eastern Pacific tropical development as the 2026 hurricane season ramps up. Volcano Safety: USGS Hawaii Volcano Observatory issued a VOLCANO WATCH for Kīlauea, raising the alert level as an episodic fountaining eruption could begin any time through June 1. Local Resilience: After last week’s earthquake, Hawaii County leaders will hold an in-person Waimea town meeting to address water and other community impacts. Invasive Species Threat: USGS warns invasive species are poised to spread further this summer, with Hawaii listed among states already facing major invasive pressure. Conservation & Youth: Friends of Haleakalā National Park awarded conservation scholarships to Maui-area students, including research into native-plant-based fire suppressants. Ocean Pollution Debate: A new argument over whether to “save” the Great Pacific Garbage Patch is reigniting questions about how to handle plastic accumulation in the North Pacific. Health Care Access: HMSA is shifting back to fee-for-service payments, raising fears clinics could scale back and primary care access could worsen. Energy Transition: A $241M Central Maui solar project is pushing through permitting to meet deadlines tied to expiring tax credits. Wildlife Incident: A Kauaʻi teen helped rescue a struggling koaʻe kea (white-tailed tropicbird) after spotting it offshore.

Invasive Species Watch: USGS says invasive species are already reshaping ecosystems, and Hawaii is on the list with thousands of introduced and invasive records—plus new threats like golden mussels and invasive carp that can hit water systems, fisheries, and native wildlife. Maui Conservation & Education: Three Maui-area students won Friends of Haleakalā scholarships, including research into native-plant fire-suppressant alternatives that could reduce “forever chemical” runoff. Primary Care Under Pressure: HMSA is switching from value-based payments back to fee-for-service starting July 1, and doctors warn the fast timeline could destabilize clinics and worsen Hawaii’s primary care shortage. Monk Seal Protection: A Washington tourist accused of throwing a rock at an endangered Hawaiian monk seal pleaded not guilty and faces federal misdemeanor charges—another reminder that wildlife harassment can bring real consequences. Local Land & Culture: Honolulu’s council advanced a plan to buy and restore the Queen Theater in Kaimuki for public use, while a new Kalihi mural aims to bring native forestry into the city. Climate & Water Reality Check: NOAA reports Maui’s 2025–26 wet season was the second wettest in 30 years, with severe flooding after drought. Solar Buildout: Central Maui’s $241M Kūihelani Solar Phase 2 project is pushing through permitting to power about 18,425 homes, targeting operation by end of 2028.

Wildlife Rescue in Kauaʻi: A Kauaʻi teen, Xavier Prentice, spotted a struggling seabird during a Mother’s Day fishing outing and swam out to save a juvenile koaʻe kea (white-tailed tropicbird), turning a holiday moment into a native species rescue. Clean Energy in Maui: The Kūihelani Solar Phase 2 project—$241 million and aimed at powering about 18,425 homes—moves through Maui permitting as developers race to lock in expiring tax credits and meet the 2028 timeline. Extreme Rain, Real Impacts: NOAA reports Maui County’s 2025–2026 wet season was the second-wettest in 30 years, with Kahului and Molokaʻi airports near record totals and drought flipping into deluge. Hawaiʻi Climate Science Under Pressure: Mauna Loa Observatory’s CO₂ record is funded and rebuilding again after a near-defunding scare, underscoring how fragile long-term climate monitoring can be. Storm Watch for the Pacific: The National Hurricane Center is tracking a developing Eastern Pacific system that could become the first tropical depression/storm of the season and bring heavy rain to the region. Community Response After Kona Low: The Hawaiʻi National Guard has wrapped up localized Oʻahu relief support after deploying about 500 soldiers and airmen during the Kona-low aftermath. Ocean Life, Citizen Science: NOAA’s “graffiti” sea turtle shell markings are part of a citizen science tracking effort, inviting the public to help monitor honu migration.

Hawaiʻi Wildlife Protection: A tourist accused of throwing a rock at an endangered Hawaiian monk seal pleaded not guilty and was barred from Hawaii beaches as the case moves forward, renewing calls to stop harassment of protected wildlife. Native Species Recovery: Nēnē are rebounding on Molokaʻi, with a conservation partnership helping bring the island’s population back from zero to nearly 60 birds and supporting the wider statewide recovery. Water & Climate Research: UH researchers on Mount Kaʻala are using trail cameras plus AI to track fog and moisture inputs that feed native ecosystems and help recharge the aquifer. Local Permitting Tech: Honolulu is rolling out an AI tool to help applicants submit cleaner residential permit applications, aiming to cut review delays and backlogs. Pollution & Public Health: A chemical spill from a ruptured tank in Washington killed fish and raised questions about industrial safety and what leaked into the Columbia River. Energy & Environment: Oregon’s rooftop solar and battery rebates may run out fast, with limited funding expected to be claimed quickly. Conservation Fight: A campaigner is urging Congress to block a federal barred-owl killing plan that critics say could undermine endangered species protections.

Local Infrastructure: Honolulu’s ʻEwa Convenience Center will see temporary delays Friday, May 29, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. for pothole repairs inside the facility, with traffic control in place and the center staying open. Plastic Pollution Innovation: Hawaii is turning ocean plastic—especially discarded fishing nets—into road paving through its Nets-to-Roads program, but researchers are watching closely for whether the pavement could shed microplastics or other chemicals. Native Governance & Media: OHA trustees voted against funding due diligence for a possible purchase of KITV Island News and KIKU TV, citing timing, financial readiness, and fiduciary concerns while still sparking debate over Native Hawaiian leadership in public storytelling. Disaster Preparedness: After March–April storms exposed gaps in Honolulu’s emergency response and communication, the Honolulu Youth Commission pushed recommendations to improve coordination and public outreach for future extreme weather. Wildlife Crime & Community Safety: Tips from the public helped police arrest a Puna-area man suspected in a triple homicide, ending a short manhunt and underscoring how local vigilance can speed investigations.

Climate Outlook: The UN and UK Met Office warn the world is very likely to keep smashing past the Paris “safe” warming threshold, with a 75% chance global temps from 2026–2030 exceed 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, plus a rapidly warming Arctic and drought risk for the Amazon. Hawaiʻi Conservation: DLNR is inviting public input on protecting 1,200 acres in Kohala (Puʻu o ʻUmi Natural Area Reserve and Puʻu Ahia), citing the forest’s role in safeguarding native species and recharging streams and aquifers as Hawaiʻi trends drier and hotter. Native Species & Wildlife: OHA’s board voted against funding due diligence for a potential purchase of KITV/KIKU, while a separate report highlights how invasive bass hybrids are reproducing in Kentucky’s Lake Linville—an example of how non-native mixing can threaten local fisheries. Monk Seal Case: A Washington tourist pleaded not guilty in federal court after allegedly throwing a coconut-sized rock at an endangered Hawaiian monk seal near Lahaina, with the court ordering him to stay away from beaches and marine wildlife. Energy & Resilience: After Super Typhoon Sinlaku, FEMA and the U.S. Army Corps delivered temporary large-scale generator power to Tinian to restore electricity while permanent repairs continue. Clean Energy Policy: California’s Senate advanced a “Plug And Play Solar” bill that would define small plug-in solar devices and reduce barriers to connecting them at home.

Wildlife Crime in Hawaiʻi: A Washington tourist, Igor Lytvynchuk, pleaded not guilty in federal court after allegedly throwing a coconut-sized rock at an endangered Hawaiian monk seal near Lahaina. He’s been ordered to stay away from beaches and marine wildlife while the case proceeds, with prosecutors citing alleged violations of the Endangered Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act. Cultural Access & Trails: Hawaiʻi’s Na Ala Hele program is updating its statewide trail plan for the first time since 1991, with residents urging stronger protections for cultural access, safety, and sustainability as use increases. Boating Safety & Stewardship: The BoatUS Foundation expanded its free, state-approved boating safety course to 15 more states, including Hawaiʻi, emphasizing safe and legal operation plus environmental stewardship. Water Pollution Watch: A new Illinois statewide survey found microplastics in every one of 31 waterways tested, with microfibers present at all sites—another reminder that plastic pollution reaches even remote streams. Climate & Risk Planning: Florida State University researchers say they’ve improved the ability to predict winter weather patterns months ahead by focusing on the stratospheric polar vortex.

Monk Seal Court Case: A Washington tourist accused of throwing a coconut-sized rock at an endangered Hawaiian monk seal pleaded not guilty in Honolulu federal court and stayed silent when asked to comment or apologize. A judge ordered him to stay away from beaches and marine wildlife while the case moves forward. Climate Finance Watch: An AFP investigation found a Tuvalu climate trust fund invested in fossil fuels, including coal and major oil refining—prompting Tuvalu to review its “fossil fuel exposure.” Community Science for Wildlife: NOAA-linked “Honu Count” turtle shell etchings are helping scientists track green sea turtles and refine protected habitat boundaries, with public reports feeding the work. Ocean Heat Alarm: Scientists say a giant Pacific marine heatwave is likely to intensify, with risks for ecosystems from Hawaii up the West Coast. Local Restoration: Upcountry Maui’s Rotary Club will volunteer at the Kula Community Watershed Alliance nursery to plant native species for replanting in the 2023 burn scar.

Endangered Wildlife Court Case: A Washington man, Igor Lytvynchuk, was formally charged in federal court for allegedly throwing a coconut-sized rock at an endangered Hawaiian monk seal off Lahaina, narrowly missing the animal; prosecutors say the act “took” the seal under the Endangered Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act, while his lawyer claims he was trying to protect sea turtles and says he’s been assaulted, threatened, and doxed. Community Access & Trails: DLNR is updating the Nā Ala Hele Trail & Access Program plan for the first time since 1991 and is taking public input through July 31, with a virtual meeting set for May 27. Seabird Education: DLNR launched free virtual, 360-degree field trips to remote seabird sanctuaries Lehua Island and Holaniku (Kure Atoll), with an in-person guided event for the Holaniku tour on May 28. Water Safety Follow-Up: The Red Hill Registry is asking the public for help boosting full enrollment completion rates tied to long-term health tracking after the 2021 fuel crisis. Heat & Health Context: A new study ranks Honolulu among America’s “sweatiest” cities, underscoring how humidity and warm nights can strain people during extreme heat.