Hawaiʻi County Parks and Green Waste Disposal Update After Storm

Most parks have reopened, but some remain closed for damage assessments and debris cleanup.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 1:00am

Following a recent Kona low storm, most Hawaiʻi County parks have reopened, but several facilities remain closed as damage assessments and cleanup efforts continue. The Department of Environmental Management is also expanding green waste collection services at multiple transfer stations across the island to assist residents with debris cleanup.

Why it matters

The storm caused significant damage to parks and public facilities across Hawaiʻi County, disrupting access to recreational areas and creating challenges for residents dealing with storm debris. The county's response to reopen parks and increase green waste disposal options is crucial for the community's recovery.

The details

Several park facilities remain closed, including all county beach parks in the South Kohala and North Kona districts, Hale Hālāwai, Kona Community Aquatic Center, Wai'ōhinu Park, Harold H. Higashihara Park, and Mahukona Wharf. To help with debris cleanup, the Department of Environmental Management is expanding green waste collection services at multiple transfer stations, including new sites at Keauhou and Waiʻōhinu, as well as increased hours at Keaʻau, Kealakehe, Waimea, and Pāhoa transfer stations.

  • The recent Kona low storm hit Hawaiʻi County.
  • Green waste collection services will be expanded from now through Saturday, April 4.

The players

Hawaiʻi County Department of Environmental Management

The county department responsible for managing waste disposal and environmental services.

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The takeaway

The county's efforts to reopen parks and increase green waste disposal options demonstrate their commitment to supporting the community's recovery from the storm's impacts and ensuring residents have access to necessary services.