Washington, D.C. -- Today the Army released the draft marine resources study for the Makua Military Reservation as part of their 2007 settlement agreement with Malama Makua.

“We’re still reviewing the study, but I’m hopeful that it can be a step to help resolve this controversy.  Clearly, the Army must continue to work to protect natural resources and cultural sites – and to be a good neighbor to the surrounding communities,” said Rep. Neil Abercrombie, who chairs the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Air and Land Forces.

The study did not conclusively link the contamination found in marine resources at the testing sites with the Army’ use of the Makua Military Reservation.  It also was a supplement to the 2006 study of fish and limu and included results from a 2003 study of sediment and water.

The Army will hold a public meeting on February 11, 2009 at the Nanakuli High School from 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm. This will include a public comment period. The study is available at the Waianae Public Library or online at http://www.garrison.hawaii.army.mil/shellfishstudy. The study is available for public review and comments for 60 days.

The public comments will be included in the Final Environmental Impact Statement for Military Training Activities at Makua Military Reservation. The Army anticipates releasing the EIS in the summer of 2009.

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