Molasses Spill Closes Keehi Lagoon to Commercial, Recreational Activities

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The state Department of Land and Natural Resources has closed Keehi Lagoon to commercial and recreational ocean activities — including fishing and canoe paddling — for public safety because of Monday’s molasses spill in nearby Honolulu Harbor.

“We are asking the public’s cooperation to keep out these waters for their wellbeing as conditions are unsafe for public activity due to risks of attracting ocean predators, as well as the possibility for contamination due to decayed marine life and bacteria,” said William J. Aila, Jr., DLNR chairperson, in a statement.

The closure will affect two permitted commercial thrillcraft (jet ski) operations in Keehi Lagoon, Aloha Jetski and Diamond Head Parasails and Water Sports. 

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Photo: Warning sign at Keehi Lagoon. (DLNR)

—Chad Blair 

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