Restoring Watershed and Coral Reef Health in Hawai'i By Reducing Sediment Transport from Dirt Roads into Streams
This report highlights the issue of rainwater runoff in developed or urban landscapes, where impervious surfaces like concrete and asphalt lead to water bypassing natural absorption and picking up pollutants. The runoff carries nutrients, agrichemicals, heavy metals, and petroleum residues into oceans, impacting marine life and community health.
The document serves as a guide for retrofitting dirt roads to reduce sedimentation loading and offers practical recommendations, acknowledging the unique characteristics of each site. Included are reference documents for detailed construction, engineering information, and a list of organizations for technical assistance aiming to foster a safer and healthier nearshore environment.